Informative Speech Assignment

Informative speeches are designed to enlighten the audience about a topic the speaker is
interested in. In this assignment, you will create an outline and design an informative speech
about a topic which you care about, such as a hobby, skill, area of study, etc. If you are unsure if
your topic is applicable, please feel free to ask me during or after class.

In this assignment, you will:

1. Create a speech outline with an opening, a body, and closing.
2. Use a minimum of 3 citations to include verbal citations in your speech.
3. Visit the communications lab to practice the delivery of your speech.
4. Deliver your speech on the day you are assigned to speak.

Additional Expectations:

Your informative speech should fall within 4 to 6 minutes to receive full points. You should be
using a minimum of 3 citations in your speech, with citations coming from reputable sources.
Failure to do so will cause a deduction in points.

Lastly, when you visit the communications lab, you are required to perform a speech delivery. If
you only use the communications lab for going over your outline, you will only receive half
points for that section of the rubric.

GRADING RUBRIC FOR INFORMATIVE SPEECH

TIME:________
Name:_________________
Topic:____________

Introduction (15 Points)

Creatively captures audience attention
1 2 3 4 5

Thesis and topic are clearly stated/connection to

Audience established
1 2 3 4 5

A clear point preview is provided

1 2 3 4 5

Body & Organization (20 Points)

A clear, logical and informative organizational pattern

was used making the speech clear and easy to follow
overall and the topic adequately covered
1 2 3 4 5

Clear transitions and topic sentences were used

1 2 3 4 5

Each main point is well structured and thoroughly

developed with needed information and analysis to
support the speaker’s claims and give the audience
a solid understanding of the topic
1 2 3 4 5

Jargon was used limitedly, language/explanations

were clear and the points were well-balanced
1 2 3 4 5

Support (10 points)

At least 3 credible sources are mentioned orally in the speech and

the citations provided are relevant
1 2 3 4 5

Points and arguments are sufficiently supported

with outside sources and analysis.
1 2 3 4 5

Conclusion (10 points)

Reviewed main points and reiterated thesis

1 2 3 4 5

Provided memorable, creative conclusion that brought a sense of closure to the speech
1 2 3 4 5

Delivery (25 points)

Volume/pace/posture were appropriate and the speaker was clear

1 2 3 4 5

Vocal variety (shows excitement, energy, enthusiasm) was used and

generally effective
1 2 3 4 5

Eye contact (minimal reliance upon notes)

1 2 3 4 5

Hand gestures/facial expressions were used purposefully

1 2 3 4 5

Speaker avoided distracting mannerisms and verbal

fillers and used notecards appropriately
1 2 3 4 5

Outline (20 points)

Followed the assigned outline format

and is in full sentences
2 4 6 8 10

All required citations are included in the text of the outline and in proper APA format
2 4 6 8 10

Total:
___
/100
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