18.6 Enrichment
Discussion Questions
- Which special occasion speech do you think will be one you will most likely give in the next 10-15 years? Why?
- How would you give a speech if you were giving an award versus receiving an award?
- Why should a special occasion speech be kept short?
- Imagine that you have been instructed to deliver a speech of introduction for a controversial figure (such as Lance Armstrong, Eminem, Bill Maher, or Ann Coulter). How might you introduce someone whom the audience may view unfavorably? How would you introduce someone whom you either do not like or do not respect?
Activities
- With a classmate write a speech of acceptance for a real or hypothetical award for each other. Present the speech to the class.
- In a group, think of a guest speaker you would like to see visit the university, and write a two-minute speech of introduction for them.
- Watch this video of a touching toast given by John Travolta to Oprah Winfrey on her birthday. As you’re watching, keep the following advice from Section 18.2: Types of Special Occasion Speeches in mind. Keep toasts brief and focus the attention on the person being toasted, not the speaker.
- What do you think about the length of Travolta’s toast? Too fast? Too slow? Why?
- How did Travolta make sure to keep the focus on Oprah?
- How do you think Travolta did with his delivery of this toast? What are some suggestions for improvements?
- In class, students write a toast they could give while out to eat with friends to celebrate their friendships and college experiences. Ask for a volunteer to share with the class.
