Page 54 - English_F5

English

Consider the purpose of the speech: Speeches fulfil different functions, depending on
the nature of the occasion, the context, and the goal of the speaker. In general, a speech
may intend to: inform, persuade, educate, amuse, and inspire the audience. In all such
speeches, the speaker will have a point or points she or he wishes to make. You always
need to have specific objectives in writing and making your speech. In addition, you
need to identify the purpose of the speech clearly as it guides your choice of words
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(diction), suitable gestures, proper intonation, and other paralinguistic features that will
facilitate the successful delivery of the content. For example, if your purpose is to
address moral decay in society, you will speak differently from someone whose aim is
to address soldiers preparing for war or to speak at a wedding. In short, great speeches
always elucidate your purpose to the audience.
Think about the context and audience: A successful speech is given to the right audience
in the right context. The context can be a political rally, a graduation ceremony, or
an advocacy for a certain issue. You must analyse the nature of your audience and
the context of the speech before you write and, subsequently, deliver a speech. For
example, you can ask yourself the following questions:

1. What is the age group of the audience? Are they children, youths or elders?
2. Will the audience be predominantly male or female or both genders?
3. Will there be people with special needs in the audience?

4. What is the size of the audience?
5. What is the level of education of the audience and their knowledge of the
subject matter?
6. What are the views and interests of the audience on subject matter of your
speech?

Knowing the context and nature of your audience helps you to prepare and deliver your
speech as they determine the methodology, the points to make, and the right language
to use, such as appropriate vocabulary, sentence patterns, and the style you use to attract
their attention. By understanding the nature of your audience, you will better prepare
yourself to meet their needs. We speak to children differently from the way we speak
to youths or elders. Likewise, we address girls and women slightly differently from the
way we address boys and men due to their social and psychological variations. We talk
to political party members differently from how we talk to sports fans. You should use
appropriate language tailored to the nature of your audience, considering age, gender,
education level, interests, attitudes and their special needs.

Decide on the title of your speech: The title of your speech summarises its purpose. A
long title may lead to ambiguity, confusion and even incomprehension. It should set out
the basic meaning of the whole speech. It should be brief, clear and readable.

Tanzania Institute of Education (TIE) 45 Form Five

24/06/2024 22:26
ENGLISH FORM 5.indd 45 24/06/2024 22:26
ENGLISH FORM 5.indd 45