Self-Introduction Speech COM115

Objectives:
1. To allow students to introduce themselves to the class
2. To provide students with an easy, comfortable, first speaking experience in the public speaking class
3. To introduce students to the process of speech making and presenting
Speech Details:
In preparation for this speech, select an object that represents a significant aspect of your cultural background,
personality, values, ambitions, etc. Using the chosen object as a starting point, you should develop a speech that
explains how it shows who you are and how it relates to your life.

For example: A new father/mother might select a diaper/bottle/baby blanket as a vehicle for discussing his/her
new identity as a parent. An avid tennis player might select a tennis racket to illustrate her passion about the
sport and how that passion shapes her personality. Or an artist might pick a paint brush to represent how she
expresses herself and her ideals through painting.

The purpose of this speech is not to explain the object in detail, but to use it as a vehicle for
the speaker to introduce herself or himself to the class. In other words, use this item as a
helpful visual aid to tell your story to the class.
Organizational Guidelines:

Speech must have an introduction, body, and conclusion (see outline)

In this course, we will practice extemporaneous style.
o Plan to speak from brief notes not a word-for-word manuscript
o Eye contact equates to a much more successful presentation
o Plan when and how you will use your object, or visual aid in your presentation.
Dont just set it to the side and forget about it until the end.
Practice your speech several times before presentation day.
o Know how long your speech is
o Practice eye contact
o Be comfortable with the flow of your main points
o Refrain from memorizing your speech word for word
Instead memorize your talking points
The speech must be 3-5 minutes, with 10 seconds forgiveness either side.

Speech Day Guidelines:

Wear clothing appropriate for your audience and occasion. You will be standing.
Turn in a typed outline (developed based on the sample provided).
Please use a video recording device that creates a clear picture with audible volume.

Jodie Bowers

Self-Introduction Speech COM115

o

Speaker should create a speaking space in the video and should avoid a selfy style recording of
themselves.
Unit 2 & 4 will require a live audience for your speech. This should be atleast 2-3 family members or friends.
Please pan your video recording device to show your audience prior to the speech.

Jodie Bowers

Self-Introduction Speech COM115

Example Outline Evaluation Rubric
Speaker:

Day/Section:
Date:

INTRODUCTION
Gained Attention
Introduced Topic Clearly
Previewed Body of Speech

/2.5

BODY
Organization/Main Points clear
Effective Transitions
Content Clearly/Equally Covered

/5

CONCLUSION
Summarized Speech
Strong Concluding Remarks

/2.5

DELIVERY
Eye Contact
Body Language
Vocal Projection/Variety

/5

OVERALL PRESENTATION
Appeared Prepared
Met Assignment Goals
Delivered within 3-5 minutes:

/5

WRITTEN ASSIGNMENT
Outline Content
Outline Structure/Format

/5

TOTAL SCORE:

/25

Additional Comments:

Jodie Bowers

Great Job! You nailed it!

Pay more attention to: