Introduction
The introduction is where you grab the audience's attention, introduce the topic, and establish your
credibility. It sets the tone for the speech and helps the audience understand why they should listen to
you.
Key Elements:
Attention Getter: Start with something that captures the audience’s interest (a quote, question,
statistic, anecdote, or startling fact).
Purpose Statement: Clearly state the purpose of your speech.
Thesis: Outline the main point or argument you will discuss.
Credibility Statement: Briefly explain why you're qualified to speak on the topic.
Preview: Provide a brief overview of the main points of the speech.
Example:
Attention Getter: "Imagine you wake up tomorrow and your phone is gone. No social media, no emails,
no text messages. How would you feel?"
Purpose Statement: "Today, I’m going to talk to you about the psychological effects of smartphone
addiction."
Thesis: "Smartphone addiction is more than just a habit – it’s a growing problem that affects mental
health, relationships, and productivity."
Credibility: "As a psychologist who has worked with numerous patients struggling with addiction, I’ve
seen firsthand how deeply this issue affects individuals."
Preview: "I’ll discuss the impact of smartphones on mental health, the ways they affect our relationships,
and what we can do to break free from addiction."
2. Body
The body of the speech is where you present your main arguments or points. It is the longest part of the
speech and should be organized into clear, logical sections. Each section should support your thesis.
Key Elements:
Main Points: Organize the speech into 2-4 main points. Each point should support your central argument.
Evidence and Examples: Use data, anecdotes, research, or statistics to support your points.
Transitions: Ensure there are clear transitions between your points to maintain flow.
Example:
Point 1: The Impact of Smartphones on Mental Health
"Studies have shown that excessive smartphone use leads to increased anxiety and depression. For
example, a recent study from the University of Pennsylvania found that people who limited their social
media use to 30 minutes a day reported a significant reduction in anxiety."
Point 2: Smartphones and Relationships
"Smartphones can create distance in personal relationships. Couples often report that constant phone
usage during meals or social gatherings leads to feelings of neglect and disconnection. In fact, a study by
the Pew Research Center found that 27% of couples feel their partner’s phone usage is detrimental to
their relationship."
Point 3: The Effects on Productivity
"Not only do smartphones affect our mental health and relationships, but they also decrease
productivity. A report by the National Institute of Health shows that people spend an average of 2.5
hours a day on their smartphones, often at the expense of work and academic tasks."
3. Conclusion
The conclusion summarizes your main points, restates your thesis, and provides a call to action or closing
thought.
Key Elements:
Summary: Briefly recap the main points of your speech.
Restate Thesis: Reinforce the main argument or purpose.
Call to Action/Closing Thought: End with something memorable – a call to action, a challenge, or a
thought-provoking statement.
Example:
Summary: "As we’ve seen today, smartphones have a profound impact on mental health, relationships,
and productivity. The more we rely on them, the more we risk damaging our emotional well-being and
personal connections."
Restate Thesis: "Smartphone addiction is a serious issue that we need to address if we want to improve
our lives and our relationships."
Call to Action: "I challenge you to spend one day a week completely phone-free and see how it affects
your mood and relationships. Let’s take back control and find a healthy balance."
