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How to Master the Demonstration Speech

Demo speeches are ubiquitous. They are assigned to students in high school and college. They are a staple in corporate and other adult training environments. They are among the most common speeches given in Toastmaster clubs.

Due to the popularity of this speech form, the well-rounded speaker must master the demonstration speech . Despite this, many speakers don’t know the basics to delivering an effective demonstration speech. Do you?

In this article, we present a demonstration speech outline which gives the best chance for success, and discuss the necessary elements for a great demo speech .

Definition: The Demonstration Speech

A demonstration speech is a form of informative speech where the speaker’s primary purpose is to teach the audience how to complete a task (or process) , and this is largely accomplished by demonstrating the task (or process) through a series of steps.

“ A demonstration speech is a form of informative speech where the speaker’s primary purpose is to teach the audience how to complete a task (or process). ”

Demonstration speech topics are numerous, including all of the following:

• How to prepare a recipe (as in standard cooking shows)
• How to operate a software application
• How to tie a knot
• How to calculate a mortgage payment
• How to swim the back stroke
• How to process a purchase order
• How to throw a frisbee
• How to compose a photograph
• How to line dance
• How to write a limerick
• How to set up a blog
• How to make origami
• and many, many more

The Demonstration Speech Outline

Just as there are many demonstration speech topics, there are many ways to organize a demonstration speech. You will rarely go wrong, however, if you apply this basic speech outline:

• Start with why
• Give a brief overview of the entire process
• For each, describe it, then show it
• (Optional) Discuss options, extras, or variations
• Allow time for Q&A
• Summarize briefly

1. Start with why

A demonstration speech is about training the audience to perform a task or complete a process. Just as with any educational task, it helps tremendously if your audience is motivated to learn.

This is why it’s important to tell your audience how they will benefit from the knowledge you are about to share. Once your audience knows why they are learning this new task, they will be motivated to learn.

Will learning this new task or process help your audience:

• Earn or save money?
• Earn a promotion?
• Build their range of skills?
• Save them time?
• Make their life easier?
• Provide enjoyment or satisfaction?
• Make them happy?

There are many ways to motivate your audience, but one of the best ways is to open with a story. Paint a picture of how their life will improve with this new knowledge.

2. Give a brief overview of the entire process

Before you dive too deep in the details, it is essential to present an overview of the overall task or process.

• A brief, high-level overview of the steps involved provides a mental framework for the audience upon which they can hang the details as you provide them later in the speech.
• When learning a new task, some people in your audience will fear that it is complicated. An early overview assures your audience that it is not overly complex . For example, “We’re going to discuss how to cook a quiche in just four easy steps…”
• If you fail to present an outline, it’s difficult for your audience to see how the steps will fit together later on. The audience won’t have the necessary context.

A great way to present the overview is with a diagram illustrating the steps of the task at a high level. You can refer to this diagram throughout.

Along with the overview, you should also list the prerequisites needed for the task, and any assumptions you are making. For example, what is needed before one begins this task? What supplies or resources are assumed?

3. Go through the steps, one-by-one

From a speaker’s perspective, one of the best things about a demonstration speech is that the core of your outline is prepared for you : you simply need to go through the steps of the task in sequential order.  (Occasionally, you may decide to present the steps in a different way, but be sure to let your audience know that you are breaking a convention.)

Keep the series of steps as simple as possible . Break the process down to the most essential steps that will lead your audience successfully from start to finish. There’s no “best” number of steps, but keep the number of steps as low as possible. Don’t present a 19-step process unless your goal is utter confusion.

Defer optional steps for later in your presentation (or, for the Q&A). It is best to avoid complicating matters on the first pass.

For each step , you should:

• Explain the purpose of the step ( why is this step necessary)
• Explain the step in simple, straightforward language ( what needs to be done)
• Show how to complete the step ( how should it be done)

4. (Optional) Discuss options, extras, or variations

Now that your audience has seen the task or process demonstrated from start to finish, you can (if time permits) provide some additional options or variations.

For example, if you are explaining how to cook a certain recipe, start with the basic version first. After that’s done, you can discuss alternate ingredients, different flavours to try, and other ways to build on the basic recipe.

5. Allow time for Q&A

Many types of speeches benefit from taking questions from the audience and answering them, and a Q&A session is particularly well-suited for a demonstration speech . This allows the audience to seek clarification on any of the steps which were unclear.

Depending on your topic and the forum in which you are speaking, you may choose to take questions at the end, or you may invite questions throughout your demonstration. Either way, monitor your time.

6. Summarize briefly

Finally, you should summarize the process briefly, and recap the benefits which your audience will realize if they perform the desired process or task.

How to Elevate Your Demonstration Speech

Once you’ve mapped your topic onto the basic speech outline given above, there are many ways that you can elevate the quality of your content and the manner in which you present it to maximize the effectiveness for your audience:

A. If you can, get audience members doing it.

Your options for audience participation are often determined by how long your presentation is, the setting in which the demonstration takes place, and the availability of supplies which can be shared by the audience.

Having said this, it’s great if you can get the audience participating in the demonstration. Actively engaging the audience and having them perform the steps will improve the likelihood that they will remember the steps and be able to carry out the task or process independently long after your presentation.

If the situation doesn’t allow for you to involve the whole audience, try to get one or more audience members to help you out as volunteers.

B. Visuals are critical for a demonstration speech.

Nearly every demonstration speech can be made better by incorporating appropriate visuals to accompany your verbal descriptions and instructions.

You have many options:

• Your body is often the best visual. If your speech is about some physical task to perform (e.g. throwing a ball), then the most important visual is your own body. You can demonstrate each of the steps individually, and “animate” the process at various speeds to enhance the demonstration.
• Physical props make it real. There are two main types of props: “real” and models. Real props include the actual objects that are used when performing the task. Models include both “fake” versions of the real objects, as well as scaled-down versions.
• Use photographs or diagrams as necessary. If your body and props aren’t sufficient, use photographs and diagrams. As you present these, it sometimes helps to immerse yourself in the photograph or diagram to animate the action that would be involved.

Whatever visuals you choose to include, be sure that your audience can easily see them . If they cannot see your visual (if it is too small, or their view is obscured), their understanding will suffer.

C. Extend your demonstration by providing follow-up resources.

A single demonstration — whether it be a 5-minute speech, or a 5-hour training session — is often not enough to guarantee that the new knowledge is learned perfectly. To improve the likelihood that your audience will successfully practice the task or process, it helps to provide resources they can use after your demonstration is complete.

This includes (but is not limited to):

• Websites, books, pamphlets, or other expert sources which they can consult for deeper information, or more advanced training.
• Handouts you prepare which summarize the steps in the process, as well as diagrams or photographs which illustrate key details.
• Contact details so your audience can ask questions in the future as they try to apply the knowledge you have imparted.

What do you like or dislike about demonstration speeches?

Do you have any tips to share about how to give an excellent demonstration speech?

Or maybe you’ve witnessed some particularly good or bad demo speeches?

Please share in the comments .

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16 comments.

Which other resources (books, mainly) would you recommend for the demonstration speech?

Cheers, Juan Amorocho

I don’t know of any books which focus entirely on this presentation form, but there are several which provide assistance with some of the needed skills.

On the training side, Telling Ain’t Training comes to mind to help with structuring the demo to enhance “learnability.”

On the visuals side, any number of books on slide design would help. In particular, slide:ology is excellent.

hey Andrew i’m working on a demonstration speech for MMA submissions and this is very helpful thx

I struggle with giving demonstration speeches. As an IT guy, figuring out the tech level of the audience can be infuriating. Especially when there’s a large variety.

I understand your struggle. Demonstration speeches can be very difficult to plan if your audience comes in with vastly different knowledge levels. I’d recommend aiming at the low knowledge end with your content (so you don’t leave anyone behind), but then interact with the audience to determine if you can move through the early steps at a quicker pace (to avoid boring too many people).

I’m hoping to provide help with this challenging issue in the audience analysis article series.

Are there any aspects beyond audience analysis that you particularly struggle with?

Joseph, unless you are absolutely sure your audience is full of IT “freaks :)” or scientists, you speech should not be too technical. Play it safe and consider your audience more from the “human” perspective. Even IT people want to entertained.

My #1 piece of advice for a demonstration speech is “show ’em the finished product first”. Think about a cooking show where they show you how to bake a beautiful cake. The first thing they show you is not the list of ingredients, but what the finished cake looks like!!

This is great advice, John.

It is consistent with “Paint a picture of how their life will improve with this new knowledge.” In the case of a cooking show, the finished product gets the audience dreaming about how good it will taste… and thus how their life will improve.

For me the most important element is that the “Demonstration Speech” starts with a “hook”. I usually start with a question, quotation, etc. As mentioned earlier here, you can start by showing the product, but I would leave it for a little bit later, so the audience get a sense what to expect. Let them play with an imagination for a bit. Also, I know this is a very specific type of speech, but I love stories, so I would definitely try to incorporate some short story to support the product. Short story how to use the product, how to overcome some challenges etc…

Starting with a hook, telling stories, and building anticipation are solid techniques which can be applied to any speech, including demonstration speeches. These techniques can be used to tweak and enhance the basic speech outline given in the article.

The goals of your demonstration speech could be: to show how to do something, how to make something, how something is done or how something works. The most easier thing is choosing to demonstrate something you know about.

I wish more people followed your outline. Demonstration presentations should be fun and easy, but some of the ones I’ve seen have been terrible.

Some move too fast (they assume we know something when it should be explained).

My favorite ones and teachers do this is to start with the end product and say: “this is what we will want to do today” and then walk us through this.

This is a terrific web site! Many thanks.

It gives us good reading about a subject many of us has avoided.

It is easy to get around.

You have books recommded to continue to learn.

And I learned! You taught me to be specific in my comments.

What I dislike about demonstration speeches is when speakers who are so comfortable with their talk that they speak too rapidly. I presume they believe that what they are sharing is as simple to understand for others as it is for them.

Indeed, Sherre. Presenters are often guilty of “The Curse of Knowledge” — they know something so well (and for so long) that they have forgotten what it is like to not know it.

Excellent outline and easy to follow. I was looking for additional tips for the kids I teach, and these work well! Thanks! 🙂

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How to Do a Demonstration Speech | ESL Presentation Lesson

Delivering an effective demonstration speech is a skill that transcends language barriers. It is a type of speech that you want your ESL students to be able to do in order to become better English speakers and communicators. In this article, we will delve into demonstration presentation, learning what it is, why it is important, and how you do it. With our easy breakdown of this type of speech, you’ll be able to give an awesome ESL speaking lesson focusing on presentations.

• Demonstration Speech

A speech is a spoken communication delivered by a person to convey a message or express thoughts, often in front of an audience. It involves organized and purposeful verbal expression to inform, persuade, or entertain. There are many different types of speech, including informative , persuasive, motivational, impromptu, expository, and debate. And demonstration presentation is also one of them.

What is a Demonstration Speech?

A demonstration speech is a form of presentation where the speaker explains a process or activity, accompanied by a live demonstration. The primary objective is to educate and enlighten the audience on the steps involved in a particular task or the functionality of an object. In simple terms, the speaker wants to inform or illustrate something.

Key Elements of a Demonstration Speech

Here are the three most important elements of a successful demonstration speech:

• Clarity in Explanation: A successful speech relies on clear communication, avoiding jargon, and using simple language. This is especially important in an ESL context.
• Engaging Visuals: Incorporate visual aids to enhance understanding. Whether it’s slides, props, or multimedia, a visual component adds depth to your presentation.
• Sequential Flow: Ensure a logical flow of steps. Organize your speech in a sequential manner, allowing the audience to follow along effortlessly.

How to do a Demonstration Speech

The following are the basic steps of giving a demonstration speech.

Introduction: Begin with a Hook

A compelling introduction sets the stage for your demonstration. Begin with a hook that captures your audience’s attention. A nice hook gives your audience a reason to listen to you. Then, provide a concise overview of what you will be demonstrating.

Body: Actual Demonstration

Break down the process into distinct steps, providing a detailed explanation for each. Use clear and concise language, reinforcing key points with visual aids. Be mindful of your pacing, allowing the audience to absorb information without feeling overwhelmed.

Encourage audience participation by incorporating interactive elements like hands-on activity. Engaging your audience fosters a dynamic learning environment.

Summarize the speech topic and what the audience learned. You may include a Q&A session to address their questions.

How to Prepare a Demonstration Speech

Keep these two things in mind when preparing your demonstration.

Choose the Right Topic

Selecting an appropriate topic is essential to a successful speech. Consider your audience’s interests and proficiency level in English. Opt for topics that resonate with them and align with their learning objectives.

Plan and Practice

Thorough preparation is the key to a flawless demonstration. Break down the process into manageable steps, ensuring each step receives due attention. Rehearse your speech multiple times to iron out any potential hitches.

Demonstration Speech Lesson for ESL Students

Learning how to do a presentation is very important for ESL students. A great way to teach them how to do it is by making them actually do one. Assign your students with a demonstration presentation project.

Presentation Project

You will need to divide these different steps into separate classes depending on the duration and schedule of the lesson. Plan the project accordingly so you can cover all of these elements.

• Objective : The goal of this project is to enable ESL students to deliver a clear and effective speech on a simple topic of their choice, applying the principles and structures discussed in class.
• Topic Selection : Students choose a simple and practical topic for their speech. Topics can include cooking a dish, creating a craft, performing a basic task, etc. Encourage variety and creativity in topic selection.
• Outline : Provide students with a template for a speech outline.
• Visual Aids : Emphasize the importance of visual aids and make sure students prepare any necessary visual aids, such as pictures, diagrams, or objects, to enhance their presentation.
• Language Practice : Review and practice using sequencing words and phrases (e.g., first, next, then, finally) to guide the audience through the steps.
• Practice : Students practice delivering their speech to a partner or small group.
• Rehearsal : Students rehearse their speeches individually, ensuring they are comfortable with the timing and flow of their presentations. This is the time to address any concerns or questions they may have with the teacher.
• Presentation : Each student presents their speech to the class. Encourage a supportive and positive atmosphere. Allow time for brief questions or comments from the audience.
• Feedback and Reflection : After all presentations are complete, provide constructive feedback on each student’s performance. Facilitate a class discussion where students reflect on the challenges they faced and what they learned from the project.

ESL Speaking Resources

If you are looking for more ESL speaking lesson resources, check out the following articles.

• Practice Speaking English
• Small Talk Ideas for ESL Lessons and Conversation Classes
• Closing a Conversation in English Politely and Easily
• Deep Philosophical Questions
• Debate Topics

FAQs About Demonstration Speech

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about demonstration presentations.

What is a demonstration speech?

A demonstration speech is a type of informative speech that aims to teach the audience how to do something or how something works. It involves presenting a step-by-step process or explaining a concept using visual aids and practical examples.

What is an example of a demonstration?

An example of a demonstration could be showing how to tie a specific knot, prepare a recipe, assemble a piece of furniture, or perform a simple science experiment. It involves a hands-on approach to conveying information.

What is the main focus of a demonstration speech?

The main focus of a demonstration speech is to provide clear and practical instructions to the audience, enabling them to understand and replicate a specific process or activity. Visual aids and hands-on examples are often used to enhance comprehension.

What type of speech is a demonstration speech?

A demonstration speech is a type of informative speech. While informative speeches provide information on a particular topic, demonstration speeches go a step further by actively illustrating how to do or understand something.

Is a demonstration speech an informative speech?

Yes, a demonstration speech is a type of informative speech. While all demonstration speeches are informative, not all informative speeches are demonstrations. Informative speeches can cover a wide range of topics, including presenting facts, explaining concepts, describing processes, or analyzing issues.

What are the different types of speech?

Here is the list of the different types of speech:

• Informative Speech
• Persuasive Speech
• Entertaining Speech
• Special Occasion Speech
• Motivational Speech
• Expository Speech
• Impromptu Speech

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Demonstration Speech: Join the Conversation

Have you ever delivered this kind of speech? Please share your experience doing it in the comments! We’d love to hear from you.

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What Is a Demonstrative Speech? (Topics + Examples)

June 7, 2023

In the realm of public speaking, there are various types of speeches designed to inform, persuade, entertain, and inspire. One captivating form is the demonstrative speech . In this genre, the speaker not only conveys information but also demonstrates how to perform a particular task.

The following comprehensive article dives into the exciting world of demonstrative speeches, providing you with a clear understanding of what they are, their purpose, and some captivating examples. Additionally, we’ll explore how Yoodli, an AI communication coach, can elevate your delivery and transform your speech into a remarkable experience.

Understanding Demonstrative Speeches

A demonstrative speech is a form of speaking where the presenter showcases and explains a process, task, or concept to the audience. The primary objective is to educate and engage the listeners by providing step-by-step instructions, visual aids, and real-time demonstrations.

Demonstrative speech examples are typically found in educational settings, such as workshops and conferences. Today, they are increasingly delivered on online platforms.

The Purpose of Demonstrative Speeches

The purpose of a demonstrative speech is twofold: to inform and to illustrate. By combining verbal explanations with visual aids and live demonstrations, speakers aim to educate the audience on a specific topic or teach them how to perform a particular task.

These speeches are highly effective in both engaging the audience and enhancing their understanding through hands-on learning experiences.

How to Use AI to Practice a Demonstrative Speech

To deliver a remarkable demonstrative speech or any type of presentation, leveraging the power of Yoodli , your AI communication coach, can make a significant difference. Here’s how Yoodli can enhance your public speaking skills and ensure your speech captivates the audience.

Real-time feedback and analysis

Yoodli’s advanced AI algorithms provide real-time feedback on your speech, pace, clarity, and non-verbal cues. By analyzing your delivery, Yoodli helps you identify areas for improvement, ensuring you maintain a captivating presence throughout your speech.

Customized coaching and recommendations

Yoodli tailors its coaching based on your specific needs and goals. By analyzing your strengths and weaknesses, it offers personalized recommendations to enhance your demonstrative speech, including guidance on vocal projection, body language, and slide design.

Interactive practice sessions

Yoodli offers interactive practice sessions where you can rehearse your demonstrative speech in a low-stress, judgement-free environment. It simulates a realistic audience experience, providing follow up questions in real time and boosting your confidence as you refine your delivery.

Accessible anytime, anywhere

With Yoodli, you can practice your demonstrative speech at your convenience. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the go, Yoodli’s accessibility allows you to refine your skills and deliver outstanding presentations whenever and wherever you choose.

Embrace the power of Yoodli, and witness the transformation of your speech into an engaging, informative, and memorable experience.

4 Demonstrative Speech Ideas

If you’re ready to write your speech, you’ll need to narrow it down a bit further. To find a demonstrative speech idea, you need to consider a few factors.

How to choose a demonstrative speech topic

Choosing a topic can be difficult at first, but after you consider a few factors, you should be able to nail down exactly what you’d like to talk about.

To start, think about how you’d answer the following questions:

• What types of topics are you genuinely interested in?
• Why do you want to give this speech? What’s the goal of your demonstrative speech?
• Who’s your audience?

Answering these questions can help ease the process of choosing a topic.

Demonstrative speech ideas

To grasp the essence of these speeches, let’s explore a few examples of demonstrative speech topics that highlight the diversity and impact of this speech genre. Here are four demonstrative speech ideas to explore.

1. How to tie a perfect necktie

Imagine a speaker confidently demonstrating various tie knots, sharing tips and tricks to achieve a flawless necktie. Through clear explanations and physical demonstrations, the audience gains valuable knowledge and practical skills they can apply in their everyday lives.

2. The art of origami: Crafting a beautiful paper crane

In this demonstrative speech topic example, the speaker takes the audience on a journey of creativity and craftsmanship by guiding them through the step-by-step process of creating an intricate paper crane. The visual demonstration and hands-on experience make the learning process engaging, enjoyable, and accessible overall as one of the best demonstrative speech ideas.

3. Mastering latte art: Creating stunning coffee designs

With this demonstrative speech idea, the speaker combines their expertise in coffee-making with the art of creating visually stunning latte designs. They walk the audience through both the techniques and secrets of achieving impressive patterns, enabling coffee enthusiasts to elevate their barista skills and create their own coffee masterpieces.

4. The science of baking: perfecting chocolate chip cookies

This demonstrative speech topic example delves into the realm of culinary delights. The speaker shares the science behind baking the perfect chocolate chip cookies, discussing the ingredients, measurements, and techniques that result in delectable treats. The audience not only gains a delicious recipe but also a deeper understanding of the chemistry involved in baking.

Demonstrative Speech Examples

To best illustrate the concept, here are the best demonstrative speech examples to motivate and inspire you.

1. “How to Make a Beautiful Gift Basket”: In this video, speaker Megan Harrell explains how to create a stunning gift basket that people will love.

2. “How to Make Frozen Hot Chocolate”: If you’re in the mood for a cold drink, this explainer will teach you step by step to concoct the perfect frozen hot chocolate.

3. “How to Make a Dalgona Coffee”: In this demonstrative speech example, the speaker guides the audience through the process of making a dalgona coffee, a whipped coffee that only needs a few ingredients to make.

4. “How to Solve a Rubik’s Cube”: Solving a Rubik’s cube can be a little tricky, but following this speaker’s instructions on how to solve one might be exactly what you need to figure out this puzzle.

5. “How to Make Slime”: This demonstrative speech example teaches the audience how to make slime at home. Slime has gone viral on social media apps like TikTok for its versatile appearance and types, so learning how to make it yourself can save you a few bucks.

3 Tips for Giving Your Demonstrative Speech

When giving a speech, it’s important to remember a few key points. Here are three quick tips to ace your speech.

• First, be sure to keep your audience engaged by using engaging visuals and stories that are relevant to the topic.
• Second, keep your speech concise and organized by breaking it down into manageable parts.
• Finally, practice what you’re going to say before the presentation so you don’t get too caught up in details or lose your train of thought during the demonstration.

Demonstrative Speech FAQs

Here are the most common demonstrative speech FAQs that you need to know.

1. What’s the difference between a demonstrative speech and an informative speech?

While both types of speeches aim to educate the audience, a demonstrative speech goes beyond verbal explanations by incorporating live demonstrations and visual aids to showcase a process or task. An informative speech primarily focuses on providing knowledge and understanding through verbal communication.

How long should a demonstrative speech be?

The length of a demonstrative speech can vary depending on the topic and complexity of the demonstration, as well as time constraints set by the event or occasion. Generally, it’s recommended to aim for a duration of 5 to 10 minutes to ensure that you provide sufficient information and engage the audience effectively.

What are some effective visual aids to use in a demonstrative speech?

Visual aids play a crucial role in enhancing the impact of a speech. Some popular visual aids include props, slides or PowerPoint presentations, videos, charts, diagrams, and samples. Choose visual aids that complement your topic and demonstration, ensuring they are easily visible and understandable by the audience.

How can I make my demonstrative speech more engaging?

To make your speech more engaging, consider the following tips:

• Begin with an attention-grabbing introduction to pique the audience’s curiosity.
• Clearly explain the purpose and relevance of the demonstration.
• Use storytelling techniques and real-life examples to connect with the audience.
• Incorporate interactive elements, such as asking questions or involving volunteers from the audience.
• Maintain a conversational tone and avoid excessive jargon.
• Conclude with a concise summary and a call-to-action to encourage the audience to apply what they’ve learned.

Can Yoodli provide assistance with speech organization and structure?

Yes, Yoodli can help with speech organization and structure. Yoodli automatically analyzes the top keywords of your speech or presentation. After practicing with Yoodli, check to make sure your top keywords align with your intended message. If they don’t, then go back to your script and rework the structure and content of your presentation until Yoodli catches the correct top keywords.

How can I incorporate visual aids into my demonstrative speech?

It’s important to use props, slides, videos, or other visual elements to enhance the audience’s understanding and engagement during your demonstration.

Is Yoodli suitable for both beginner and experienced speakers?

Yes, Yoodli is designed to benefit speakers of all levels, from beginners looking to build confidence to experienced speakers seeking to polish their skills. Yoodli’s personalized feedback and tailored recommendations cater to your individual needs, helping you improve and refine your speaking skills regardless of your current proficiency level.

Remember, if you have any specific inquiries or need further assistance, you can always refer to Yoodli’s official website or reach out to their support team for detailed and up-to-date information.

Demonstrative Speeches in Summary

Demonstrative speeches have the power to educate, inspire, and entertain. By combining verbal explanations with visual demonstrations, these speeches create engaging and interactive experiences for the audience.

With the assistance of Yoodli , your AI public speaking coach, you can refine your delivery, boost your confidence overall, and elevate your presentation skills to new heights. Embrace the art of demonstrating, captivate your audience, and unleash your communication power with impactful demonstrative speeches.

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• Understanding demonstration speeches

What is a demonstration speech?

- the essentials of great 'how to' speeches.

By:  Susan Dugdale   | Last modified: 08-27-2023

What are the characteristics of great demonstration speeches?

In a nutshell, an effective demonstration speech teaches. Your audience, through listening, watching or actively participating, learns something new.

As their guide, you will take them through a 'show and tell' covering each step of the process in chronological order from set-up to finish. Think of it as a 'how-to' type of speech.

It's a variation of an informative speech with visual aids, (often powerpoint presentations) and it's used everywhere: in classrooms, training centers, lecture theatres and other places: sometimes well, sometimes badly.

What's on this page:

• how to choose an excellent demonstration speech topic : 5 vital aspects to take into account before settling on a topic, links to 3 pages of good demonstration speech ideas
• how to plan, prepare and deliver a good speech - a step-by-step guide
• links to more resources eg. a printable demonstration speech outline , rehearsal guidelines ...

Choosing the perfect topic

Before you leap enthusiastically on a 'how to' topic and decide that's the one for you, it's a smarter, and better idea to think through the five following tips. They're here to help.

1.Who is your target audience? What will be of interest to them?

It's much, much harder to persuade a disinterested and bored audience that you have something vitally interesting to show and teach them!

Ask yourself:

• Why does my audience want to listen to my speech on xxx {insert your particular topic idea}?
• What benefit or value will they gain from it?
• Will it save them money?
• Will it save them time?
• Will it make them smile?
• Will it make them a better person? How?

Put yourself in their shoes. If you were them, is there an angle that could make your topic irresistibly appealing?

How are their lives going to be made better through your demonstration speech? 

We pay attention and listen when we're satisfied there's something in it for us. (It's the WIIFM principle at work: What's in it for me?)

2. Can this topic be broken down into easily followed sequential steps?

If the answer is 'YES', how many steps are needed from start to finish? The fewer steps there are, the easier it is for an audience to follow you. 

If the answer is 'NO' you'll need to think again.

3. Can this topic adapt to fit the setting for the speech?

For example:  My preferred topic is  'How to saddle a horse correctly' .

The setting for my speech is the classroom, or perhaps a hall. Understandably, I won't be bringing my horse along because I don't want to frighten it, or my teachers! ☺

However is there another way to show saddling a horse? Could I use video-clips I shot and edited? Or a sequence of photographs?

Before you get too involved in looking for alternatives to bringing along the real thing ...

4. Check the assessment guidelines 

If your speech is part of an assessment process, be sure to ask before committing yourself to using media forms like power point or video. It would be really disheartening to find out too late that what you had used was not permitted.

5. Am I passionate about, or genuinely interested, in the topic?

Your enthusiasm (or lack of it) for what you are speaking about communicates directly with the audience. It bypasses your words and shows in your body language .

Are you committed? Are you interested? Do you really care?

Great demonstration speeches are a combination of confidence and information. You need both to succeed.

Now choose your topic!

Here's a collection of 290+  demonstration speech topics , including that evergreen favorite: 'how to choose a pet'.

There's another selection of  good demonstrative speech topics  here arranged by theme: business, entertainment, frugal living, caring, public speaking.

And yet another splendid collection here:

50 how to speech ideas  focusing on soft skills.

There's also 188 funny how to speech topics , including How to yarn bomb with aplomb! ☺

And 100+ 10 minutes (or less) demonstration speech topics . 

When you've chosen come back for delivery suggestions. The success of your demonstration speech, aside from choosing a great topic, lies in your planning, preparation and delivery.

Return to Top

Planning, preparation & delivery of your speech

Planning and preparation.

The goal of any 'how to', or demonstration speech is to successfully teach those listening and watching a process or skill. Your speech's success, or failure, relies on how you teach or show the steps needed to achieve the desired result.

For example: if your demonstration speech is about 'how to knot a tie', then the desired result is an audience capable of knotting their own ties or at the very least, inspired to try. ☺

Use a structured 3-part format

You will have an introduction in which you tell the audience the specific thing they're going to learn, why they'll benefit from learning it and give them a brief overview of the process involved.

Next you have the body of the speech . This is the demonstration itself and lastly, you'll have a conclusion summarizing what it is that's been learned, reinforcing its benefits and finish with a question-and-answer session.

Woven throughout each of these segments you'll use visual aids or props, (either the items themselves or charts, diagrams, photographs, video etc.), and personal stories to illustrate.

You may even invite audience participation if it's appropriate. For example, if you're tying ties, then having one for everybody to practice with as you're going through the steps would be an excellent idea.

The body of demonstration speeches

In your planning concentrate on the outcome you want and then focus on the logical steps needed to achieve it. This will form the body of your speech.

The easiest way to get this part right is by doing it yourself .

As you go through the process, (of making a friendship bracelet, tying a tie, fixing a flat tire on your bike, leaving an effective telephone message asking for assistance from a business ...), keep your audience in your mind.

Put yourself in their shoes, hear through their ears, see through their eyes ...

What do they need to know about each step? What will make it easier for them to understand? Do they need to see it? Do they need to do it? Do you need to include every step or can you safely either miss some out, or clump them together?

Talk through the entire process out loud to yourself making sure you use simple language which is free of jargon. Or if you do use specialist words, that you explain them fully.

This is the heart of your speech, and you will want to make sure you have found and sorted any potential problems well before you deliver it.

Getting feedback

When you think you have it flowing smoothly invite a few trusted people to watch. Ask for feedback so you can fine tune the balance between 'showing and telling'.

Questions you'll want answered are:

• Are the steps in the process logical?
• Are my instructions or explanations about each step clear?
• Are my visual aids or props relevant and effective? (Click to find out more about  how to use visual aids effectively.)
• Is it interesting, amusing, effective? Will it hold my audience's attention?
• Does it fit within the time limit? 
• What do I need to do to improve?

Once you've integrated the feedback and run it through several more times, you're ready to add your introduction and conclusion. The addition of those segments completes the 3-part speech format: introduction, body and conclusion.

Remember to leave time for a question-and-answer session too, either directly after you've finished the demonstration or after the conclusion.

(For more to help you give your speech the x-factor:

• How to write a speech introduction| 12 of the best ways to start
• How to end a speech memorably | 3 example closes with power
• How to handle a question-and-answer session well )

Complete a demonstration speech outline

To help you get the structure right, here's a blank demonstration speech outline to complete. It takes you through the entire speech each step of the way from the beginning to the end.

Filling it out carefully after you've had a couple of trial runs will make preparing cue cards* much easier. Click the image to download it.

*See the FAQs below for more about cue cards.

See a completed demonstration speech outline

If seeing a completed demonstration speech outline would help, do look at this page: demonstration speech sample outline . 

I've used the same template outline that you can download from the link above. The speech itself covers the steps involved in leaving a good message.

I've also made a video (audio + slides) so that you can hear as well see the flow of information from one point to the next.

FAQs about 'how to' speeches

Do i need to write out my speech 'word for word'.

If you know your topic thoroughly, have rehearsed it, and completed an outline, all you really need are notes on cue cards to keep you on track.

Use them, and with practice you will talk fluently and easily about each step.

This has the added advantage of making your speech more spontaneous and therefore 'real' for the audience.

(In addition, a set of cue cards is also very reassuring if you're feeling anxious about remembering the sequence everything comes in and what you want to say about each step.)

Do I really need to rehearse my speech?

Answer: YES! Demonstration speeches are notorious for going awry. You need to rehearse to eliminate all the possible glitches before you get in front of an audience.

It's only through rehearsal that you find out if your ideas translate well into reality. The smallest of oversights can trip you up. Rehearsal helps you find them before you have a audience watching you fall flat on your face.

• Getting the main points muddled through not having thought them through carefully.
• Forgetting an essential piece of equipment.
• If your speech is about grooming your dog, not anticipating your normally placid Fido would take fright and bolt in front of a group of strangers!
• Spending far too much time on one or two steps which in turn means the ending is rushed and the question-and-answer session is dropped off.

This page walks you step by step through the rehearsal process.

Can I use humor in my speech?

Answer: Absolutely! Please do. Demonstration speeches and humor belong together. When you have your audience laughing with you, you know you're onto a good thing. The trick is to make it relevant. Click here for more about using humor in speeches.

How do I stop feeling anxious about giving my speech?

Answer: The first thing to do is to prepare thoroughly. That's the best way to overcome anxiety. When you eliminate as many possibilities for failure as you can, you will feel more in control.

Here are 14 easily implemented and excellent strategies for dealing with   fear of public speaking .  (I know they work as I use them myself and, over the years have seen them work for umpteen of my students too.)

In addition to tackling anxiety head on you'll find links to pages to help with every aspect of delivery: pacing your speech, using vocal variety, how to get the power of the pause, breathing correctly, and more.  (Yes, the page is a bit of a blockbuster:   acute anxiety help for public speakers .)

Psst! Are the words in your speech 'blah, blah, bland'?

Discover the joy of action verbs and make your writing vocally vibrant, succinct and precise.

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Easy Demonstration Speech Ideas

12 September, 2020

9 minutes read

Author:  Mathieu Johnson

If you ever dreamed of becoming an instructor and teach others, you can use an excellent opportunity to act like one while giving a demonstration speech. Believe us: there’ll be no better chance to engage yourself in such an exciting activity. This is probably the most encouraging task professors could ever give you. And you can now use it to share knowledge with others and learn something yourself during the process.

Demonstration speech definition

As the name implies, demonstration speech is a speech devoted to teaching the audience how to do a particular thing. It is a clear, step-by-step practical guide which intends to show people methods of using regular items and even improve someone’s life with it. Demonstration speeches exist in different forms: they can be lengthy and detailed, short and straightforward, or medium and accurate. But either way, the very essence of this task is to teach you how to put thoughts into one, well-structured, and logical sequence of steps. It might seem dubious to take such a specific assignment, but if you take time to explore all the nuances and requirements for this task, it’ll be much easier to handle it eventually. So, what are the processes involved in demonstration speech writing, and what makes trivial persuasive topics sound brilliant?

Follow our guide for more insight.

Choose Your Topic Carefully

Like with any other essay type, demonstration speech starts with topic selection. You have a vast field of “how to” speech ideas to talk about, but the ultimate choice is always on you. Also, professors often tend to give a specific topic to their students. In cases like this, it’s even easier. Regardless of what your final topic is, there’s always a need for research. Once the topic is defined, and you’re 100 percent confident that it’s going to fit the timeframe for delivery, go on to the next step, which is the audience analysis.

Examine Your Audience

There are specific criteria which can help you study the audience prior to delivering a speech. These factors include age, occupation, preferences, interests, and so on. So for example, if your listeners are professional gardeners, they’ll probably expect some useful advice on their sphere of interest. Instead of nurturing them with something as banal as “How to grow a plant,” give them real information, like “How to grow and take care of palm Washingtonia.” Likewise, if your audience composes of teenagers, speak about something thought-provoking, yet not too professional and dull. Take, for instance, the topic on how to become successful, or how to deal with depression.

Look for Credible Sources

Before writing the demonstration speech, you’ll first need some assistance to prove the credibility of your sayings. If you don’t want the audience to think like the entire speech is a fly of your imagination, you should arm yourself with relevant evidence to prove the mentioned points. There are many places you can go to, like local libraries. They contain countless books on your topic, so you can use them for your advantage. Alternatively, consider using online resources, but only credible ones if you don’t feel like walking anywhere. Even if such assistance is not enough for you, ask relatives or friends for help. Some of them might be experts in your topic, and more than willing to explain how this or that thing works.

Write a Motivational Conclusion

The best way to finish your demonstration speech is to give your audience a great insight into the process they haven’t experienced themselves. For this, you can call listeners to action and motivate them to follow your practice. Let’s review an example of a proper ending: “Now that you’ve learned about the basics of DIY table creation, you can craft one easily by yourself without costly materials and mountains of time.” Such a prominent calling will make people not only have a positive impression of your speech but also encourage them to make something useful.

Demonstration speech outline

An outline is a way to structure the information that you want to share with your audience. The outline should explicitly showcase the order of steps that you will use in your demonstration speech. Many students seem to neglect the power of creating outlines for their academic writing tasks, but in vain. The key feature that makes outlines as significant as other processes of speech creation is a schematic representation of the main ideas. It means that writing the final variant of your demonstration speech will be much easier as you have an exact plan, and you don’t need to think of the main points on the fly. As for the structure of an outline, it should contain the following elements:

• three sections – introduction, main body, and conclusion.
• the main part should be broken up into different stages of the process.
• headings and subheadings marked with letters and numbers for easier navigation throughout the outline

At the phase of plan creation, it’s also vital to adhere to theses and use them as reference points. These can be either sentences or just keywords. Do as you are accustomed to doing and feel comfortable with making amendments before proceeding with writing the speech text. For each statement, use examples from personal life to validate the adequacy of described steps. Vast reasoning is, of course, excellent, but without specifics, they do not cling. To find the response in the heart of the audience, make your how-to-do instructions more understandable. For example, if you want to explain to your audience how to make and install a wall-mounted folding table, don’t just enumerate the instruments required and tell people how to fold and unfold the table. Rather, give them proper instructions. 

5-minute demonstration speech topics

• How to savor wine
• How to make a Spanish salad
• How to clean the house with minimum effort
• How to live the day like it’s the last one
• How to forget the past and move forward
• How to sew clothes
• How to enjoy the moment
• How to practice speed reading
• How to adjust to the realms of massive consumerism
•  How to control finances and save money

Funny demonstration speech topics

• How to stop forgetting about turning off the iron
• How to clean up the mess after your “Project X” party
• How to survive in college
• How to master the art of lying with a poker face
• How to get rid of annoying friends
• How to pretend that you’re present in a class
• How to get an A+ for homework while doing nothing at home
• How to stop biting nails and eating hair when you’re nervous
• How to watch horror movies with your eyes open
• How to pretend that you like your birthday present

Demonstration speech ideas for college students

• How to paint using the acrylic pouring technique
• How to find motivation
• How not to burn out in college
• How to find common ground with any professor
• How to understand the subject you hate most of all
• How to decorate a dormitory room for enhanced productivity
• How to force yourself to get out of bed
• How to be a leader in your class
• How to prepare for an exam without psychological suffering
• How to reach new heights in education

Now you have a guide on how to write a demonstration speech, as well as easy speech topics in addition to basic theory. These demonstrative speech topics are a surefire way to give a memorable, informative, and perhaps funny talk, which will undoubtedly crack the audience up. Our essay writers described you the essentials of speech writing, and now it’s your turn. Be patient, take your time, and tailor a blazingly meaningful speech.

Feel free to buy essay tasks if you’re facing some problems with your essay !

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How to Write a Demonstrative Speech

Last Updated: September 19, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Lynn Kirkham . Lynn Kirkham is a Professional Public Speaker and Founder of Yes You Can Speak, a San Francisco Bay Area-based public speaking educational business empowering thousands of professionals to take command of whatever stage they've been given - from job interviews, boardroom talks to TEDx and large conference platforms. Lynn was chosen as the official TEDx Berkeley speaker coach for the last four years and has worked with executives at Google, Facebook, Intuit, Genentech, Intel, VMware, and others. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 272,393 times.

Demonstrative speeches are intended to teach an audience how to do a specific thing. They can be long and detailed, or short and simple. Even if you're an expert at your topic, the process of writing your speech can seem difficult. However, once you sit down to write a great speech, you're likely to get more excited about your topic than ever.

Choosing a Topic

• For example, to give a speech about how to perform general car maintenance, you might need an hour for your presentation. That's because it's a broad topic. If you only have 15 minutes, you should narrow your speech to something like how to change a car's oil.
• If you don't have control over the length of time or the topic, you'll need to adjust your speech accordingly. If you have too much information for a short amount of time, don't go into much detail. If you have a long time for a simple topic, you can expand your speech with some history or related facts.

• For example, if you're giving a speech to professional bakers, it might not be appropriate to choose the topic, “How to Bake a Cake.” You'd probably want to make your topic more interesting to them with something like, “How to Bake Authentic French Style Pastries.”
• The age of your audience matters, too. For example, if your audience is young children, you might choose the topic, “How to Take Care of a Plant” instead of, “How to Grow Perennials.”

• Look up your topic online. Other people may have made instructional videos that you can get tips from.
• If you know any experts on your topic, ask them for advice.
• Visit your local library and checkout books on your topic. Books are excellent sources of information, and are considered reliable sources when doing research.

• You should be able to use useful visual aids via a PowerPoint presentation or manageable props and examples. So a topic like, “How to replace your car's transmission” is probably not a great topic. However, something like, “How to make a spinach salad” would be easy to do.

Writing the Speech

• The outline should contain three sections: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion.
• The body should be broken up into the various steps of the process.

• When writing a speech, you want to simply write notes. You don't need to write out the speech word for word. Write enough to make you comfortable with the material, but not so much that you'll be reading off of your paper.
• Try to remember what it was like when you learned how to do this thing. What steps required more explanation than others?
• Unplug the saw.
• Locate the screw under the blade.
• Turn the screw enough to loosen the blade.
• Remove the blade.
• To keep the audience engaged, think of how you can involve them. Will you include audience participation? Will the demonstration be hands-on? Will you tell jokes or ask the audience questions? These can all be great strategies for keeping people engaged.

• Your call to action could be something like, “By learning to change your own motor oil, you'll be able to save money and feel the empowerment of taking care of your own car!” or, “French style pastries are a welcome addition to any gathering, as you'll see when you bring them to your next party.”
• Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion. That will leave the audience confused and with unanswered questions.

• Writing the introduction last is a good idea, because then you'll have already thought hard about your speech. By now, you know everything you want to say about the speech, so you can determine what is most essential to get people excited about it.
• To get people excited, use inspiring language such as, “You may have never thought you'd be able to change a flat tire yourself, but actually, it's remarkably simple!” or, “French pastries are one of the treasures of European cuisine.”
• Even though you write the introduction last, it is always the beginning of the speech.

• Take note of anything you'll want to add to the speech to explain the visual aids. For example, do you want to say something like, “I'm using unbleached white flour, but you can also used bleached flour if you prefer.”

Practicing Giving the Speech

• Review your notes as you would before giving the speech in front of people.
• Try performing the speech in front of a mirror. You should be able to look yourself in the eye much of the time, instead of always having to look at your notes.
• Go through the complete demonstration, along with your visual aids. If you don't, you might not realize that parts of the demonstration don't work as you've written them.

• Once you've made the changes, practice and try performing the speech for yourself again.
• Always use the visual aids, even if you've already used them once.

• You may want to invite some friends who know nothing about the topic and some who are experts in the topic. That way, you can get different perspectives on how useful your speech was.

• Ask specific questions of your test audience. You can ask them if they understood the different steps, or if there was anything they felt you missed.
• You may want to write down the feedback you get, or ask your friends to write it down so you can look at it later.

• You don't always need to incorporate others' feedback. Sometimes it won't be useful or accurate. However, if you got the same feedback from more than one person, chances are that it would be worthwhile to consider.

Sample Demonstrative Speeches

Expert Q&A

• Writing a speech and giving a speech are related, but are different skills. When it's time to deliver your speech, practice good public speaking. Be warm, upbeat, and clear. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Watch videos of other people giving demonstrative speeches. Notice what you appreciate about the good ones, and what doesn't work for you. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.myspeechclass.com/demonstration-speech-topics.html
• ↑ Lynn Kirkham. Public Speaking Coach. Expert Interview. 20 November 2019.
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/what-is-demonstration-speech
• ↑ https://www.hamilton.edu/academics/centers/oralcommunication/guides/how-to-outline-a-speech
• ↑ https://www.comm.pitt.edu/visual-aids
• ↑ https://www.unr.edu/writing-speaking-center/student-resources/writing-speaking-resources/speech-delivery
• ↑ https://open.lib.umn.edu/publicspeaking/chapter/14-4-practicing-for-successful-speech-delivery/

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15 Demonstration Speech Ideas and Key Techniques for Your Next​ Speech

If you have ever been called upon to teach an audience with the help of some visual aids, then you have done a demonstrative speech or a demonstration speech. Hopefully, you did a great job. This article aims to show you how to best carry out a demonstrative speech that does what it is meant to do; teach. Demonstration speeches are pretty common in especially in academic settings where professors share their knowledge and students are called upon to give presentations. So, if you just came in to get some demonstration speech ideas for your next presentation, then please check the last part of the post.

Definition of a Demonstration Speech

This is one of our posts on the types of speech series, should you be interested in learning about other types of speeches, please click on of the links below when you are done reading this article.

Types of Speech Series

Part II . 9 Tips for Writing and Amazing Informative Speech and 120+ Topic Ideas

Part III. 5 Quick Tips on how to Give an Effective Motivational Speech

Part VI. 6 Key Tips for a Memorable Entertaining Speech + Topics and Ideas

Part VII. Explanatory Speech: 7 Key Tips to Help You Deliver an Effective Speech

Part X. Public Speaking Contests: 7 Ways to Nail at Forensic Speech Competitions

Part XI. 80+ Impromptu Speech Topics & 7 Ways to Nail One

Part XIV. Eulogy Guide: How to Give a Heartfelt Funeral Speech (with 4 Eulogy examples)

How to Carry Out an Effective Demonstrative Speech.

1. why should your audience listen what’s in it for them.

How do you secure the attention of your audience at the start and throughout your speech? By telling them what they stand to gain by listening to you. 

Explain to them why what you are about to teach is valuable. How it will help them achieve a goal or become more knowledgeable individuals. This way, any audience member who is interested in the benefits you outlined (hopefully they all are) will listen closely to your speech. 

You can also share your personal experience with the audience. Tell them how this particular knowledge you are about to share has helped you in your personal life. 

 2. Give Your Audience an Outline

In order to simplify the details of your speech, especially for audience members who may see the topic as being too complex or complicated. A simple guide on how your speech is structured will help your audience know what to expect and mentally prepare to receive it. 

Sometimes, before we start reading a book, we usually browse through the table of contents section before we commence reading the book. Remember how you become much more motivated and enthusiastic to read the book after seeing what it contains. Your outline serves the same purpose; to keep the audience in an anticipatory mood.

3. Go Over Each Step in Detail

After the appetizer comes the main course. The introductions are over and it is now time to get down to business. Demonstrative speeches usually involve practical demonstrations, you are expected to show your audience how to complete a particular task in a step by step manner. As a speaker, this makes things easier, you are not expected to ramble on about unrelated topics. Just tell your audience why a particular step is important, how it is supposed to be carried out and then go on to actually show them how it is done, that’s it. 

Carry your audience along every step of the way, make sure they understand a particular step before you move on to the next step. Explain in simple words with the help of a clear diagram or a prop. 

4. Q & A Session

Depending on the setting, you may be expected to answer some questions from the audience. Sometimes, members of the audience may not have completely understood some of the concepts you tried to explain. A Q and A segment give you an opportunity to iron out any kinks members of the audience may have with your speech. 

5. Summarize

Before signing off, give a summary of your speech, highlighting the key points you have made and what your audience stands to gain if they do what you have shown them. you can also suggest some resources that will help your audience get a deeper understanding of the topic.

15 DEMONSTRATION SPEECH IDEAS / DEMONSTRATIVE SPEECH IDEAS

Demonstration speech ideas and topics in tech and media, demonstration speech ideas and topics on health and fitness, demonstration speech ideas and topics in business.

Always remember that the purpose of a demonstrative speech is to teach. Do all you can to ensure that your audience leaves your speech armed with new information on a particular topic. And how to use this new knowledge to achieve their desires.

REFERENCES & FURTHER READING

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How To Write a Demonstration Speech: Definition, Topics & Examples For Students

Demonstration speeches, also known as “how-to” speeches, are a popular type of presentation where the speaker demonstrates or explains how to do something step-by-step. Whether you are college or university student or you’re teaching someone how to cook a particular dish, use a new tool, or perform a certain skill, demonstration speeches are an effective way to educate and engage an audience.

However, crafting a successful demonstration speech can be challenging, as it requires not only expertise in the subject matter but also effective communication and organization skills. In this blog article, our  homework help  team will discuss the key steps and tips for writing a successful demonstration speech that will captivate your audience and leave a lasting impression.

Table of Contents

Definition of a demonstration speech.

A demonstration speech is informative and provides listeners with an overview of how to do something, such as bake a cake or  fold origami . The presenter’s goal is to give step-by-step instructions on completing the task.

Both students and professors are capable of giving demonstration speeches, which are common in educational contexts. They may also be utilized at work for things like software lessons and safety training.

Related:  How to write an argumentative speech .

Benefits of Giving a Demonstration Speech

Delivering a demonstration speech may help you become more confident in front of an audience, develop organizational skills, learn more about a certain subject, and connect with like-minded others.

Demonstration speeches provide speakers the chance to show their creativity using visuals or other props that assist draw the audience’s attention to the presentation’s main themes. Also, they provide a platform for self-expression and instruct others on skills they may not have known previously.

You can always hire a good service that offers cheap  PowerPoint presentation help  services to complete one for you.

Overview of the Steps Involved in Writing and Delivering a Demonstration Speech

You must pick a topic, create an outline, conduct any necessary research, write your final draft, prepare for the speech’s delivery day, and deliver it well in front of an audience if you want to write and deliver a strong demonstration speech. Let’s go over each one more closely:

• Choosing Your Topic – When choosing a subject, think about what you would like to spend time researching and properly practicing before delivering it in front of an audience. Identify who will make up your target audience—their age range (teenagers? adults?), experience level (novice? advanced?), etc.—and choose something appropriate that should capture their attention so that they remain engaged throughout your talk.
• Making an Outline: While creating this design, make sure that all required supplies are available because many demo lectures call for tangible objects like  culinary utensils  or tools like scissors or screwdrivers if such tasks are included in your suggested instructional.
• Researching Any Relevant Information: Take advantage of available sources like textbooks, libraries, internet databases,  YouTube videos , etc., which can aid you tremendously in acquiring supporting evidence for each point listed within your outline.
• Crafting Your Final Draft – Employ transitions between sections/points and create strong entrances and finishes. These elements serve to tie together parts while also serving to sustain listeners’ interest during delivery.
• Preparing For the Day of Delivery – Prepare the necessary materials, then go through the content again during practice sessions. You could find it helpful to videotape yourself in order to identify areas that require development before the performance.

Choosing a Topic for the Demonstration Speech

A. finding inspiration for your topic.

When looking for inspiration, it is helpful to look at topics you are knowledgeable about or passionate about. Think on the knowledge and abilities you can impart in a speech style, as well as how your audience will profit from your presentation.

Additionally, it may help to take some time out of your day to think outside the box and brainstorm ideas that have yet to be explored by others. This strategy can result in more innovative themes that might appeal to larger groups as people start looking for new opportunities to push themselves while learning.

B. Narrowing Down Your Topic to an Appropriate Length and Focus

Once you have an idea for a topic, you should narrow it down to make sure it fits the amount of time you have for a speech.

Typically speaking, demo presentations should take between 8 and 10 minutes, so choosing a topic that fits within these guidelines will guarantee you don’t miss any key topics. Alternatively, you can ask an expert at myhomeworkhelp.org to “ make my PowerPoint presentation ”

This entails establishing specific objectives or aims before working on an outline in which each primary point is intended to help achieve those objectives. Every phrase in a well-written demonstration speech must contribute in some manner to the ultimate objective.

C. Assessing your audience and choosing an appropriate tone or voice for the speech

When choosing a topic for your presentation, it’s also important to think about who will be there to hear it. This will assist you in determining the terminology to use and the level of information to include. For instance, you would likely use several scientific terminologies in a lecture about  rocket science . On the other hand, since not everyone is well-versed in that subject, you may want to use more straightforward language if you were discussing elementary physics experiments.

Ultimately, picking the right tone or voice comes down to knowing your own areas of expertise and who will be listening, thus no matter the format of the speech, accurately determining one’s audience should be a major protocol.

Related:  How to write an impromptu speech .

Outlining and Writing the Demonstration Speech

A. establishing goals for the presentation.

Before you start making your outline, it’s important to set goals for your presentation. This will assist you in staying on task throughout each segment and ensuring that everything you discuss contributes in some manner to the achievement of your objectives.

Also, choosing an overarching subject or message before beginning to write will assist in logically connecting concepts so that the speaker won’t experience any difficulty transitioning from one important point to the next when delivering the speech.

B. Creating an Organized Outline with Main Points, Supporting Arguments, Examples, and Visuals

After you’ve set clear goals for yourself, it’s time to make an outline. Depending on the subject of your demonstration speech, this might range from straightforward how-to instructions to in-depth explanations of challenging concepts. Regardless of the facts you wish to convey to your audience, keeping each point distinct and arranging them logically will aid in their comprehension.

Related:  How to write an argumentative essay .

C. Drafting Each Section of the Outline into Clear Paragraphs or Sections

After your outline is complete, you can begin breaking each part down into well-written paragraphs or sections that flow smoothly and contain any pertinent examples that are required to further illustrate concepts.

When required, visual cues like diagrams, images, films, etc. can also be used—just make sure you utilize them sensibly and sparingly. When required, visual cues like diagrams, images, films, etc. can also be used—just make sure you utilize them sensibly and sparingly. As a result, your audience remains engaged and your presentation gains impact. Get  PowerPoint presentation assignment help  from experts.

D. Incorporating Visual Aids if Necessary

It goes without saying that visuals play a key role in demonstration speeches, as they provide concrete evidence regarding various processes that may be difficult for some people to understand through words alone.

However, always keep in mind that less is frequently more when utilizing graphics, especially when doing live presentations, as too many might divert attention away from the main points being addressed. Also, while successful use of visuals may need additional rehearsal before the presentation, it will pay off because effective utilization may significantly increase crowd understanding.

Researching Relevant Details for Your Presentation

A. Conducting Background Research on Your Topic

Before you write your speech, you need to do a lot of background research to make sure that all the information you give is correct and up-to-date. This entails reading about the subject from a variety of sources, such as books, journals, websites, etc., and comprehending the key concepts well enough to effectively communicate them during the presentation.

B. Ensuring All Information is Accurate and Up-to-Date

It’s also important to double check any data you find or quotes you use in your demonstration speech to make sure they’re correct. This includes double-checking dates, facts, and figures used in presentations since errors might divert attention from what you’re trying to communicate and, if there are too many, could render the entire presentation ineffective.

Also, researching relevant details isn’t just about learning facts about a topic; it’s also about finding out how people feel and think about it. This is due to the fact that when attempting to engage an audience on a human level, the opinions of those who have first-hand experience with something are frequently more significant than statistics. This increases the likelihood that what was stated will be remembered long after the speech has ended.

Practicing Giving Your Demo Speech

A. preparing by memorizing important points.

It is crucial to practice your speech after spending time studying pertinent information for it. This involves remembering key topics so that you can confidently deliver them without pausing when it comes time to speak.

This may entail outlining full parts in advance or practicing speaking aloud to yourself in front of a mirror to ensure that each sentence is delivered properly and firmly.

B. Practicing Speaking Clearly and Confidently

Additionally, rehearsing with family or friends can help test how certain material translates when spoken out loud versus when written because, as we all know, people are different. This form of practice is essential when giving public speeches as it helps build confidence and ensures that listeners don’t get lost inside any topics presented owing to bad delivery methods. Sometimes what sounds fine on paper doesn’t necessarily sound wonderful in person.

Adjusting Pace, Volume, and Tone as Needed: Last but not least, if you want your audience to respond favorably to what you have to say, it is essential that you take the time to alter speed, loudness, and tone effectively during presentations. Speaking too rapidly might cause listeners to miss essential topics while speaking too slowly can make them bored, which would completely negate the objective of giving a demonstrative speech.

Concluding Statements

A. summarizing key point from the presentation.

Once you’ve practiced and perfected your delivery, it’s time to end your demonstration speech by summarizing any important points you made during it. This can help them remember what you say long after the speech is ended by reminding them of the subjects you discussed and how essential they were.

B. Inviting Questions from Audience Members

After reviewing key points made during presentations, it is important that you open up an opportunity for audience members to ask questions related to what was just discussed. This not only offers them additional information, but it also demonstrates to the audience that the speakers are focused on their audience and trying to make a strong impression.

C. End on a Positive Note

Lastly, end each presentation with enthusiasm and positivity. No matter how much the audience already knew about the subject before hearing the speech, this pushes them to learn something new.

A demonstration may be memorable and more enjoyable for both the person providing it and the one receiving it if it is concluded with words of wisdom, humor, or encouragement.

Looking to Hire Someone to Write My Demonstration Speech for Me

At  my homework help , we understand that writing a demonstration speech can be a lengthy and complicated process. Giving our “ do my homework ” clients the information and guidance, they require increases their chances of making an impact on their audience with an effective presentation. To that end, here are just some of the ways in which we can help:

• Creating comprehensive outlines for speeches according to set goals, theme or message
• Researching relevant details about topics chosen, including accurate facts, figures, and opinions. Check more on our  statistics homework help  here.
• Drafting each section into clear paragraphs or sections while incorporating appropriate visuals throughout
• Preparing by memorizing important points through writing or speaking out loud to oneself
• Practicing speaking clearly and confidently before listeners arrive
• Adjusting pace, volume, and tone during deliveries when needed;
• Summarizing key points made within speeches accurately
• Inviting questions from audiences as part of demonstrations
• Concluding each presentation on a positive and enthusiastic note

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Depending on how complex the subject is, anything between two days and two weeks should be plenty to do in-depth research, create a useful outline, practice presenting techniques, etc. Nevertheless, more time may always be granted if necessary.

As we’ve already talked about, it’s important to double-check any data you find or quotes you use in your demonstration speech to make sure they’re correct. This involves verifying the accuracy of dates, facts, and figures used in presentations because errors might draw attention away from the major points you’re attempting to convey and reduce the effectiveness of the entire presentation.

The majority of topics are acceptable, but those that raise difficult moral dilemmas, such as politics or abortion, may not be the greatest options given that listeners’ perspectives on these topics vary widely and that you cannot predict who will be paying attention. But this could still work as long as the speakers stay neutral during their talks.

Establishing a particular tone or voice before delivering any kind of speech is essential since this helps determine what language should be used and how deep certain details need to go. A good evaluation of the audience is a crucial stage in preparing for any sort of presentation, regardless of how it is set up, because it will let you know who will be listening and how much information you have about the subject.

Visuals are a big part of demonstration speeches because they show people how things work in a way that words alone might not be able to do. Common examples include diagrams, images, films, and other graphics. However, keep in mind that less is frequently more, especially when you want to  do my PowerPoint presentations in person, since too many might divert viewers’ attention from the main themes.

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Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

130+ Demonstration Speech Topics

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Begin your writing process by selecting some demonstration materials.

Choose a topic you are knowledgeable about, as this will help make your presentation much more effective.

If you cannot come up with good public speaking cases for a presentation, then use any of the subjects listed below for inspiration.

In this article:

How to Choose the Right Demonstration Speech Topic

Our list of good demonstration topics, process demonstration speech topics, health / fitness, technical how to ideas, demonstrate …, your central idea and purpose, how to introduce, your outline, the delivery of your demonstration speech topics.

You likely have plenty of processes and skills that you think would be valuable for others to know how to do, but that doesn’t mean that any topic you pick will be a good idea for your circumstance. You have to consider the complexity of the demo and whether your audience will be able to fully understand the process in the time given. Here are a few things to consider to help you choose a good demonstration speech topic:

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• Interests – Both you and your audience’s interests are an important factor when deciding on a demonstration speech topic. Your excitement and enthusiasm is needed to inspire the audience to care about what you are teaching. If your speech gains great audience attention, you’ll likely have questions to answer afterword. Make sure to choose a topic you are knowledgeable and confident in.
• Audience demographics – Consider what is appropriate for the group you are addressing. Aim to provide a skill that is of value to them, though be careful not to pick a topic that is either overly simple or complex.
• Setting – Consider what your presentation space is going to be like. Will you be indoors or outdoors? How much room do you have? These details will help you understand which topics will be better suited than others, given the conditions you’re delivering your speech in.
• Time limit – Think about what you can realistically teach in the time you’re given for your speech. While one topic may stand out to you, you may not be able to fully cover it if you’re only given five minutes.
• Visual aids – While your demonstration itself is a visual aid, many how-to speeches can benefit from videos, PowerPoint slideshows, and handouts. Consider what technology or props you’ll have available for your speech.

Speech topics can be broad. To give an effective demonstration speech, it’s a good idea to customize a topic to fit your unique situation. Take a speech topic that interests you and work to hone in on one central idea within that subject.

To discover the main point you want to make in your speech, determine what the specific purpose is of teaching your audience about this topic. What exactly do you want to demonstrate to your audience?

Form a clear thesis statement that answers this question in detail. Describe in one sentence what your demonstration is about and why it’s important that you share it.

Once you’ve determined the central idea of your speech, play with different action verbs to set up your main point. Here are a few phrases and verbs to frame your demonstrative speech topic:

• How to …
• Fix …
• Use …
• … Works
• … is done, produced, or made.
• Structure…
• X Steps to…

Try some of these other verbs too: deal with, draw, handle, execute, create, develop, incorporate, invent, operate, perform, or predict. Those words generate attention and they are in nature describing what your public speaking audience can expect .

These action verbs and phrases help describe to your audience what they can expect from your speech. Your headline will be more of an attention getter with these demonstration-specific words.

Below are lists of demonstration speech topics separated by category. In order to choose an effective demonstration speech topic, remember to consider your interests, audience, and what visual aids are available. Use action verbs to create an attractive headline and better target your audience.

• cook a pie (or anything else you like / know how to cook).
• fix a flat tire.
• create a Halloween mask.
• clean your car.
• play piano.
• change a bank check.
• dress like a princess.
• play a computer game.
• make a cocktail.
• taste wine.
• organize a surprise party.
• print a digital photo.
• eat oysters.
• register for voting.
• make Irish Coffee.
• read music notes.
• learn playing guitar.
• use your breath when you sing.
• open a bottle of wine.
• make your garden full of flowers year around.
• build a web site.
• clean your swimming pool.
• clean your golf clubs.
• make a fast summer salad.
• make a new candle of old ones.
• make your own wedding dress.
• organize your wedding.
• make a water-color.
• build a shed.
• prevent injury.
• knot a carpet.
• stop thinking.
• speak Italian.
• become a good actress.
• become a famous film star.
• write a film script.
• write a business-like letter.
• make honey.
• blow a glass.
• train your brain.
• dry your hair.
• greet Japanese people.
• use the cruise control.
• make a genealogical tree.
• climb a building.
• make a dancing show.
• snow board.
• board on sand.
• make a golf swing.
• draw a cartoon character.
• build a snowman.
• use the content of articles without violating their copyrights.
• put a weave in hair.
• sculpt your eyebrows properly.
• apply nail polish.
• apply makeup.
• find a roommate.
• choose the perfect pet.
• survive in the wilderness.
• make an emergency kit.
• perform a magic trick.
• organize your closet.
• change a baby’s diaper.
• find your ancestors.
• set up an aquarium.
• choose a digital camera.
• use the process of deduction.
• tie various knots.
• use the U.S. Postal Service.
• weave a basket.
• write a resume.
• knit a scarf.
• write a will.
• read a map.
• avoid ID theft.
• make bread crumbs.
• pick a bottle of wine.
• make banana pudding.
• make homemade salsa.
• decorate a cake.
• make pizza.
• make ice cream.
• brush your teeth properly.
• be healthy.
• choose the right running shoe.
• shoot a basketball.
• wax a surfboard.
• play chess.
• play poker.
• weight lift.
• program car keys and remotes.
• backup your DVDs.
• pack a suitcase that passes customs.
• find cheap airline tickets.
• find the best spring break deals.
• use a makeup if you a guy.
• fly an real RC plane (only show this outdoors and only if you are good).
• scribe a good poem.
• be an ninja (PS Joking sorry).
• pot a plant.
• bake a birdhouse.
• build a model.
• make jello Jigglers.
• arrange flowers.
• polish Shoes.
• design wedding cakes.
• stamp greeting cards.
• make ornaments.
• color eggs.
• make a pinata.
• fold napkins in a funny way.
• tie Die shirts.
• get your keys out of a locked car.
• fix a flat tire on a bicycle.
• saddle horse (I did this and tooka video of saddling my horse and narrated it to my audience).
• be a good student
• make jewelrey.
• text effective and clear messages.
• make a paper airplane.
• grow herbs – e.g. chamomile, parsley, catnip – in your own mini greenhouse.
• make the crunchiest marshmallows at a camp fire place.
• care for hamsters or other household pets.
• fold an origami crane.
• prepare invisible ink to write secret messages.
• construct a boomerang that comes back to you.
• prepare a banana chocolate shake to recover from a hangover.
• make twirling confetti eggs for parties and events.
• select the proper running shoes for recreational walks.
• use a sextant for navigation like two centuries ago.
• select and prepare a backpack for travel abroad.
• make up a first aid kit for simple treatment of minor injuries.
• learn break dance tricks and street moves.
• build a rabbit hutch or cages and runs.
• make a real Italian pizza with classic recipes.
• read a barometer and analyze the results.
• get energy from solar cells on your roof.
• identify if a Louis Vuitton bag is authentic.
• practice active listening communication techniques.
• learn fast reading.
• clean and polish golden rings, bracelets, and necklaces.
• pick a color scheme and palette.
• count the calories and make healthier choices.

And so on …

Another way of inventing demonstration speech topics is by association . Look at the general categories and themes below.

Food and Drink, Household Appliances, Sports Equipment, Outdoor Recreation Travel Trips, Health and Beauty Tips, Home Improvement, Home Decoration, Vintage Cars, Government Science, Nature Medicine, College Games, Culture, Tires and Suspension Trademarks, Travel Packing, Acne Curing, Building Treehouses, Vaccines, Vacuum Cleaners, Valentines Day Dating, Vanishing Tricks, Ventilation Systems, Video Game Consoles, Making Home Videos, Volleyball Techniques, Warm Ups and Stretching Training Methods, Water Polo Rules, Wind Turbines, Tasting Wine Vintages, Woodworking, How to Write a Testimonial About Yourself, Sales Elevator Pitches, Yoga for Starters Programs … Et cetera.

Process demonstration speech topics about deciding on an evening dress, roommates, and even personalized rubber stamps for public speaking and on how to do or fabricate something and the working of things and performing their functions.

Here are thirty example topics. You could show and explain how to:

• apply table manners.
• investigate a black box in an airplane.
• choose jewelry for an evening dress.
• choose tasty French champagne.
• deliver an effective speech.
• bake the best doughnuts.
• organize a prom night the whole nine yards.
• find a good dorm roommate.
• get a refund after you bought something you do not like.
• get a satellite tv for free.
• secure your home from burglars.
• lose weight safely and with a lasting effect.
• build a recycle compost bin in your garden.
• build a pyramid of a team cheerleaders.
• prepare for a job interview.
• register or establish a legal valued trademark or patent.
• overcome fear of public speaking before you stand behind a desk.
• get rid of roaches, mice and other pests in the backyard the natural way.

Unique Demonstration Speech Topics

• How asphalt cement is made.
• How batteries and accus work.
• How original Aboriginal boomerangs work.
• How bulletproof vests work.
• How an artificial pacemaker stimulates a heart.
• How perfumes and fragrances are designed.
• How thermometer instruments work.
• How antique barometers work.
• How personalized rubber stamps for hallmark imprinted impresssions are made.
• How topographic maps and globes are fabricated.
• How air bags open.
• How an espresso machine produces your cup of coffee.
• Fireworks and other explosive devices precaution regulation.
• Preparations for a tandem hang glider flight.
• Why hot air balloons fly after the sun is down.
• How lie detectors detect lies. This genre of topics for demonstration speech in education should be prepared with the help of professional officers of course.
• How a cardiac surgeon does a heart bypass operation to relieve pain on the chest and improve blood supply?
• Intelligent high IQ tests of the Mensa foundation for gifted and talented students.
• How metal detectors for treasure hunting work.
• The Academy Awards ceremony of the Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Academy.
• The patent examining procedure of the Trademark Office.
• The organization of political election conventions.
• The ultimate method to remove chocolate stains from your clothes or carpet.
• The UN Security Council explained – start with positioning the permanent
• The smartest and impertinent money laundering conspiracy tricks revealed.
• The sun eclipse – the Moon fully or partially blocks the Sunview on Earth.
• How a radar detector, a speed countermeasure equipment, works.
• The four forms a rainbow can take – primary, secondary and supernumerary rainbows, and glory clouds.
• Why our red blood cell production is important.
• Satellite orbit types – polar, sun synchronous, and geosynchronous.
• Barometers, the instruments used to measure atmospheric pressure.
• The VoIP call process diagram demonstrated for teleconferencing.
• The route of your Short Message Service text from your mobile phone to its destination. Ideal to show the virtual road for passage with a huge map.
• Unique uses for duct tape.
• Catcher hand signals in baseball and how to recognize them.
• How the sun’s ultraviolet rays can damage your eyes.
• How to stake a rose bush to get more flowers.
• Making fake UFO photo’s is not difficult.
• Marinate jumbo-size shrimps for your barbecue.
• Tips for more privacy in a high school or college facebook.
• A step by step guide to write an ebook
• How to close a client
• How to create a business plan
• How to create an awesome finished product
• How to file taxes as a business owner
• How to network
• How to pitch your services
• How to prioritize your time
• How to research a potential product
• How to work from home
• How to ace a test
• How to balance your time as a college student
• How to create the perfect study space
• How to find cheap textbooks
• How to make any professor like you
• How to make friends on campus
• How to make money while going to school
• How to pick your schedule
• How to sign up for classes
• How to deliver an award-winning, persuasive speech
• How to perform well on standardized tests
• How to write a demonstration speech outline
• How to write an informative speech
• How to write in cursive
• How to avoid making eye contact with your ex
• How to breakdance
• How to dress like a princess
• How to prepare a presentation you forgot all about
• The best way to eat a deviled egg without being messy
• How meditation works
• How to check your blood sugar
• How to create a marathon training plan
• How to find the best health insurance
• How to perform an Olympic-style lift
• How to perform a yoga pose
• How to perform tai chi
• How to plan a vegetarian meal
• Incorporate veggies and fruits into your day
• The proper running technique
• The fundamentals of a weight-training routine
• How to bottle your own wine
• How to carve a pumpkin
• How to decorate a cake
• How to fly a kite
• How to grow a vegetable garden
• How to knit a sweater
• How to make peanut butter
• How to perform a simple magic trick
• How to swing a golf club
• Impress friends with an amazing card trick
• Best ways to pack a suitcase
• How to change a baby’s diaper
• How to change a flat tire
• How to organize closet space
• How to organize your email account
• How to save money
• How to tie a tie
• How to wash a car
• The proper way to fold a napkin
• 10 ways to use a curling iron
• How an STM image works
• How to choose the best pattern font for your website
• How to create an email account
• How to create an iPhone app
• How to insert an image placeholder in WordPress
• How to install WordPress
• How to print a digital photo
• Red/green/blue color mixing for website design
• How to apply make-up
• How to apply for college
• How to find a part-time job
• How to French braid hair

Technical how to speech topics to present information and instructional steps in a demo oral. To explain a techie or complicated issue to educate a public speaker must be concrete; do not only talk about abstract theories but describe it, make it vivid with visual aids, common metaphors and comparisons to ordinary live.

International fitting sizes; the different measurements for sizes in the United States and standards used in other countries, all about the yards, feet, inches, meters, centimeters and their history. You can limit these technical how to speech topics to clothing only.

Animation; show how to create a nice short animated movie or funny cartoon from a series of 2 D images. Give the full set of instructions while you are showing what you mean step by step. Start with a simple animated character, an avatar-like puppet that jumps over a wall.

Sunscreen; the working and the urgent need of using a topical product that absorbs and even reflects the ultraviolet sun beams. Everyone like to sit in the sun, although not everyone is aware that sun protection is important to prevent the damaging effects of sunlight on the long term.

Hard Disk Drives; how to recover data for a damaged hard drive, what does the police, government agencies, criminal investigation departments and internationally respected authorities do with modern technology to discover storages media on a computer.

April Fool’s Day; the best speech topics for a funny how to fool someone are from hoaxes and practical jokes on the First of April; give examples – your main points – in a top 3 on notoriety, absurdity and originality of the sense of humor that’s being used.

Tree Climbing Techniques; provide an adequate training in tree climbing for recreational climbers, discuss the gear, ropes and knots. And don’t forget the forest ethics!

Birth control pills; how does the Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill or C O C P, containing the estrogen and progestin hormones, stop an ovulation.

Mosaic Tile Projects; for decorating your kitchen, bedroom, living areas and even the garden wall. Tell your public step by step in this technical topic how to do it.

Room Air Conditioners; how are energy efficient and reliable systmes designed to meet your comfort needs, and which special technology is used?

One advice to help you with making things easier: Most audiences relate to technology issues in general, so again, don’t get to technical and avoid highly complex demonstratives when exploring these nine technic possibilities.

How To Draw

Draw a Bearded Collie dog, an Abyssinian cat, a Swallow Belied Mangalitza pig, a Dwarf Hotot bunny.

To make a picture frame, to do a magic card trick, to draw a cartoon animal, to kick a soccer ball, to do origami, to make flowers out of tissue, to make a ribbon necklace, to make a friendship bracelet, to play indian poker, to play basketball, to hit a volleyball, to make homemade gatorade, throw a baseball the right way, to knit a crochet, to braid hair.

How to Play Baseball You could talk about the rules – show how to swing a bat – also show how to feild – to run the base’s hit homerun’s.

Caps and Hats Describe in speaking instructions lessons how you can tailor made you school sports and collegiate caps and hats with logos in the latest styles and trends. And for affordable prices. Your speech topics could be about the steps you have to take in getting cool caps for your friends. And the call to action could be: let us get those for us all. If you succeed in convincing and persuading them it would be great. Further I will advice you to spice up your demonstration address with some persuasive arguments topics!

Dirt Pudding For the dirt pudding you will need: 4 cups of milk, 2 packages of instant chocolate pudding, 16 ounces of cool whip, You also need: 32 ounces of crushed oreos, 16-20 clear cups.

Horse Riding Saddle a horse, bridle a horse, clean and scrub a hore back, bath a hore tenderly, feed a horse water, feed a goat or sheep, bottle feed a baby goat nice and slow.

Wedding Planning a wedding: all the preps and the day itself.

• riding a unicycle.
• riding a bicycle.
• making a scarf.
• catching a fish.
• sewing something.
• making origami.
• feeding a chicken.
• cooking a meal.
• using a remote.
• eating really fast.
• making someone or yourself faint.
• using pressure points.
• doing self-defence.

Set a table, build a birdhouse, plant a garden, make a scrap book, make friendship bracelets, any type of food, make a duct tape wallet, make a piece of clothing, blow a bubble with gum, make play dough, make paper beads, write a letter, tie your shoe, make soap, any type of mathmatical method, make a snow globe.

These are just a few demos that I have done or thought about. Make sure when conducting your demonstration to make it fun, catchy, and full of personality. This will make the judges or audience. It can also make it memorable to take first place!

Also, it is important to describe why it is important to know how to do what you are demonstrating or how it can be useful. And also warnings or things to look out for as far as safety goes. This generally comes in the conclusion. Also, if there is something that is inexpensive, than include prices of the supplies.

For example: If you choose for a playdough. You could say that in comes in handy for a craft project while babysitting or it makes a great craft project and take home in vacation bible school. Be sure to not let the children eat the any of the supplies or finished product. Children may need parental supervision.

While it is not always necessary, judges often find it impressive if you list and discuss the nutrition facts in a food talk and point out a positive health benefit.

For example: ‘Peanut butter is a sweet treat the contains no cholesterol, but has a lot of protein in it.’

This shows your judges or audience you have complete knowledge of the subject.

Random Things You’ve Never Thought Of Act like a blind sea horse, bring animals back to life using facial hair, create a dinasour out of burnt pop tarts and ashes, use the three unforgivable spells in harry potter, flex a bust out of a steel box, tame a huge dragon after stealing it from its true master, win a cage match against a sea lion and a goat create a weird odd monster using black magic.

How to write a Demonstration Speech

Determine the specific purpose of your matter in hand. State it in one simple sentence. E.g. I want to demonstrate how to ___ .

Determine the central idea of the text. In other words: a clear factual statement. Construe representing features or delineate the stages by using ppt picture and figure slide sheets.

They see at once what your try on is about and why you want to share it. E.g. It is important to preserve family recipes and this project is the best way in which to do that..

Determine the central idea of the text. In other words, produce a clear factual statement. Explain representing features or delineate the stages by using Powerpoint picture and figure slide sheets.

E.g. It is important to preserve family recipes, and this project is the best way in which to do that. .

Once you have decided on a demonstration topic, write an attractive, effective, and interactive attention-getting introduction. Think about these sample elementary preliminary parts:

• Tell them what you are going to teach – (metaphor for “sell”) – them.
• Why you choose to demonstrate this topic.
• Why your listeners should know how to do it. Give them a sneak peek of a few benefits.
• Tell them that they are going to do it themselves in a couple of minutes and that the only thing your audience has to do is follow your instructions.

Lay out in clear terms the procedure – the particular course of actions. You could consider a series of tactical exercises to help them feel what you mean. Design some kind of an approach for acquiring and applying the knowledge you want to share in class.

Arrange the steps. Show the activities or moves you have to make in a logical chronological order. Describe the details. Be clear.

Do not think the audience will understand your demonstration speech topics immediately. Let them ask you questions after each step before you proceed.

Conclude each step in one uncomplicated phrase. Perform these action checks on the main points before you jump to the next step.

Just show them how to do it, step by step. Have you read my checklist? Okay, let’s move forward:

First and for all, remember this ground rule: think about the rules and time limit of the assignment. Plus apply these eight public speaking tips for delivering your demonstration speech topics:

• Visual aids, such as objects, actual items, models, and drawings all can help your presentation. Do bring them in. For a large object, ask your teacher how to incorporate it.
• Include personal stories and examples.
• Provide each audience member the proper materials and ingredients to practice with.
• Ensure everyone is participating – keep eye contact, laugh, and make some funny remarks in between the lines.
• Look around you and see if your audience is following you. If not, repeat some sections. There are always people who will not understand right away, but are too shy to admit it. Assist them to jump over the hump.
• Ask yourself if someone in the audience would assist you with your demonstration. Stay patient and polite, and help if needed. Do not make a fool of that volunteer: praise their efforts in loud and clear supporting terms. You can do it!
• Close with a memorable summary or with a sharply defined call to action.
• Ask if there are any questions. And leave a handout of the explored information for people who want to know more.

274 Speech Topics for Business [Persuasive, Informative]

78 Agriculture Speech Topics

15 thoughts on “130+ Demonstration Speech Topics”

How to be strong

How to put air in your tire

how to fall asleep in class

How to do an ab workout at home

How to get a really bad grade or a F on a speech

How to make teachers hate you.

how to put on a condom

How to gain self confidence

How to play APEX Legends rather than doing your Trigonometry homework…

How to groom a dog

how to draw a cartoon figure how to wash laundry how to decipher someone’s handwriting

how to be happy

how to fail a demonstration speech

How to get out of trouble.

How to bring someone back to life.

example of demonstrative speech about life

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10 Killer Demonstration Speech Ideas to Wow Your Audience

• The Speaker Lab
• May 15, 2024

Table of Contents

No matter whether you’re hitting the books, climbing the corporate ladder, or just keen on boosting your way with words, mastering a killer demonstration speech can really change the game. In this article, we’ll introduce you to 10 outstanding demonstration speech topics. Each one is designed not just to impress but also create moments your audience won’t forget anytime soon.

But what exactly is a demonstration speech? Simply put, it’s a type of informative speech that teaches your audience how to do something step by step. From mastering a new skill to understanding a complex process, demonstration speeches are all about breaking things down in an easy-to-follow manner. So, let’s dive in and discover how you can become a demonstration speech pro!

10 Great Demonstration Speech Ideas

If you’re looking for some engaging demonstration speech topics, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re a high school student or a seasoned public speaker, these ideas will get your creative juices flowing. Let’s take a look.

• How to make a perfect cup of coffee
• The art of folding origami
• Mastering the perfect golf swing
• Creating a delicious summer salad
• Tips for taking better photos with your cell phone
• The science behind paper airplanes
• Protecting yourself from identity theft
• Choosing the right running shoes for your feet
• DIY hair dye techniques
• How to complete some basic yoga exercises

Remember, the key to a great demonstration speech is to choose a topic that you’re passionate about and that will engage your audience. Whether you’re demonstrating a practical skill or sharing a fun hobby, your enthusiasm will shine through and make your speech a hit.

So go ahead and pick a topic that speaks to you. With a little creativity and preparation, you’ll be ready to wow your audience and deliver a demonstration speech that’s both informative and entertaining.

What Is a Demonstration Speech?

If you’ve ever watched a TED Talk or attended a conference, chances are you’ve seen a demonstration speech in action. A demonstration speech is a type of informative speech that walks the audience through a process or task, step by step.

The goal? To teach the audience how to do something new, whether it’s making a recipe, using a product, or mastering a skill. Demonstration speeches are all about breaking down complex ideas into easy-to-follow steps, using visual aids like props, charts, and videos to drive the message home.

Benefits of Giving a Demonstration Speech

So why give a demonstration speech? For starters, it’s a fantastic way to share your expertise and help others learn something valuable. But the benefits don’t stop there. Just imagine doing the following:

• Showing the members of your team how to navigate new software
• Teaching students how to perform a procedure, solve a problem or use a piece of equipment
• Highlighting the benefits of using a product for your target audience
• Proving the effectiveness of a procedure or product in comparison to another
• Pitching a sellable good or service for production or investment to company leaders and other decision-makers

Whether you’re in sales, education, or leadership, being able to clearly explain and demonstrate ideas is a valuable skill that can open up new opportunities and help you make a real impact.

How to Give a Demonstration Speech

Ready to dive in? Here are a few tips for giving a killer demonstration speech:

• Choose a topic you’re passionate about and know inside out. Your enthusiasm will be contagious.
• Break the process down into clear, logical steps. Think about what your audience needs to know and in what order.
• Use visual aids to clarify and reinforce your message. Props, images, and videos can make abstract ideas concrete.
• Practice, practice, practice. The more comfortable you are with your material, the more engaging and natural your delivery will be.
• Engage your audience by asking questions, encouraging participation, and leaving time for Q&A. Make it a conversation, not a lecture.

Remember, a great demonstration speech is all about empowering your audience with new knowledge and skills. So don’t just tell them—show them how it’s done.

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Choosing a Demonstration Speech Topic

Now that you know the power of a great demonstration speech, you might be wondering: what should I talk about? The possibilities are endless, but the key is to choose a topic that you’re passionate about and that will resonate with your audience.

Your Interests

First and foremost, your demonstration speech topic should be something you’re genuinely interested in and excited to share with others. After all, if you’re not passionate about the subject, how can you expect your audience to be?

Think about your hobbies, skills, and areas of expertise. What do you love to do in your free time? What are you known for among your friends and family? Chances are, there’s a demonstration speech topic hiding in there somewhere.

Time Constraint

Of course, passion alone isn’t enough. You also need to consider the practical constraints of your speech, like time. How much time do you have to prepare and deliver your demonstration? If you only have a few minutes, you’ll want to choose a topic that can be explained concisely, with a few key steps or takeaways. If you have more time, you can dive deeper into the details and nuances of your subject.

Audience Engagement

Finally, think about what will engage and benefit your audience. What problems are they trying to solve? What skills do they need to learn? In addition, what interests and values do they share?

The best demonstration speech topics are those that are both personally meaningful to you and relevant to your audience. So don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside the box. Whether you’re teaching your coworkers how to use a new software program or showing your friends how to make your famous chili recipe, the key is to choose a topic that you’re excited about and that will leave your audience feeling inspired and empowered.

How to Structure Your Demonstration Speech

You’ve chosen your demonstration speech topic, and you’re ready to start preparing. But how do you even plan a demonstration speech? The key is structure. Structuring your speech is key to delivering a clear, engaging presentation that your audience will remember. Consider the following steps as you outline your speech.

Begin with “Why”

Before you dive into the details of your demonstration, take a moment to explain why your topic matters. What problem does it solve? How will it benefit your audience? By starting with the “why,” you’ll capture your listeners’ attention and make them eager to learn more.

Outline the Process

Once you’ve established the importance of your topic, it’s time to outline the process you’ll be demonstrating. Break it down into clear, logical steps that your audience can follow along with. Use simple language and avoid jargon or technical terms that might confuse your listeners. Alternatively, choose just one or two terms that you can explain briefly without having to go too in-depth.

Progress Through Each Step

As you move through your demonstration, take your time and explain each step thoroughly. Use visual aids like props, diagrams, or slides to help illustrate your points. And don’t be afraid to pause and check in with your audience to make sure they’re following along.

Invite Questions

After you’ve completed your demonstration, open the floor for questions. This is a great opportunity to engage with your audience and clarify any points that may have been unclear. Be prepared to answer questions thoughtfully and provide additional resources if needed.

Summarize and Conclude

Finally, wrap up your speech by summarizing the key points you covered and reiterating the importance of your topic. Leave your audience with a clear call to action, whether it’s to try out the skill you demonstrated or to learn more about the subject.

By following this simple structure, you’ll be well on your way to delivering a polished, effective demonstration speech. Remember to practice, stay focused, and have fun, and your passion and enthusiasm are sure to shine through.

Tips for Delivering an Effective Demonstration Speech

You’ve picked your demonstration speech topic, outlined the key points, and practiced your delivery. However, there are still a few more things you can do to really make your speech shine. Engaging your audience, for instance, and delivering a memorable, impactful presentation are two great ways to really drive your speech home.

Use Visuals to Guide Your Speech

Visual aids are an essential element of any great demonstration speech. They help illustrate your points, break up the monotony of straight talking, and give your audience something to focus on. But don’t just throw together a bunch of random images and call it a day. Your visuals should be carefully chosen to support and enhance your message.

Start by considering what type of visual aid would work best for your topic. Are you demonstrating a step-by-step process? A series of photos or diagrams might be the way to go. Explaining a complex concept? An infographic or chart could help simplify things. Trying to evoke an emotional response? A short video clip might do the trick.

Whatever you choose, make sure your visuals are high-quality, easy to see and understand, and flow logically with your speech. Practice integrating them smoothly into your presentation so they feel like a natural part of your talk, not an awkward interruption.

Engage Your Audience

No one wants to sit through a dry, boring lecture. To keep your audience interested and invested, you need to actively engage them throughout your speech. One simple way to do this is by asking questions. Pose a thought-provoking query at the beginning to get them thinking, or ask for a show of hands to gauge their experience with your topic.

You can also use humor, storytelling, and real-life examples to make your speech more relatable and memorable. Share a funny anecdote about a time you struggled with the task you’re demonstrating, or explain how this skill helped you succeed in a challenging situation. The more your audience can see themselves in your speech, the more engaged they’ll be.

Provide Additional Resources

Your speech is just the beginning. To truly empower your audience to put your teachings into practice, provide them with additional resources they can refer to later. This might include a handout with key takeaways and step-by-step instructions, a list of recommended tools or products, or links to helpful articles or videos.

You can also invite your audience to connect with you after the speech if they have additional questions or want to learn more. Provide your contact information or social media handles, and encourage them to reach out. By offering ongoing support and resources, you show that you’re truly invested in their success.

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Demonstration Speech Topics for Specific Settings

Now that you know how to choose and deliver a great demonstration speech topic, let’s explore some specific ideas for different settings. Whether you’re speaking in a business meeting, a classroom, or a community event, there’s a perfect topic out there for you.

Business Topics

Demonstration speeches are a common fixture in many business settings, from team meetings to industry conferences. These talks tend to focus on practical skills and strategies that can help attendees do their jobs better or advance their careers. Some potential topics include:

• How to use a new software program or tool
• Tips for effective time management and productivity
• Strategies for networking and building professional relationships
• Techniques for delivering persuasive presentations or sales pitches
• Best practices for remote teamwork and communication

When choosing a business-related demonstration speech topic, consider your audience’s needs and goals. What challenges are they facing in their work? What skills or knowledge would help them succeed? By addressing these questions, you can deliver a talk that’s truly valuable and relevant to your listeners.

Health and Fitness Topics

Health and fitness are popular subjects for demonstration speeches, as many people are eager to learn new ways to improve their physical and mental wellbeing. These talks can range from practical how-tos to more inspirational and motivational content. Some ideas to consider:

• Demonstrating proper form for common exercises like squats or push-ups
• Sharing healthy meal prep ideas and recipes
• Teaching stress-reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing
• Offering tips for staying motivated and consistent with a fitness routine
• Exploring the benefits of alternative therapies like acupuncture or massage

When giving a health or fitness-related speech, it’s important to remember that everyone’s needs and abilities are different. Avoid making blanket statements or promises, and always encourage your audience to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen.

Student-Friendly Topics

Demonstration speeches are a great way for students to practice their public speaking skills while sharing knowledge with their peers. These talks can cover a wide range of subjects, from academic skills to personal hobbies and interests. Here are a few ideas:

• How to create an effective study schedule and stick to it
• Tips for researching and writing a great paper
• Strategies for managing stress and anxiety during exams
• Demonstrating a favorite art or craft project
• Teaching a useful life skill like basic car maintenance or sewing

When choosing a topic for a student demonstration speech, consider what would be most useful and engaging for your classmates. What skills or knowledge do you have that others might benefit from? What topics are currently relevant or interesting to your peer group? By selecting a subject that resonates with your audience, you’ll be more likely to deliver an impactful and memorable speech.

FAQs on Demonstration Speeches

What is a demonstration speech.

A demo speech shows how to do something. It guides the audience through the steps, making complex tasks simple.

What does demonstrate speech mean?

Demonstrate speech means using words and visuals to teach or show how a process works from start to finish.

What can I demonstrate in 5 minutes?

In 5 minutes, you could teach someone basic origami, mix a cocktail, or even change a tire—quick skills work best.

Which of the following is an example of a demonstration speech?

An example would be showing how to prepare your favorite summer salad step by step in front of an audience.

Nailing an impressive demo speech means finding a subject that lights up your crowd, laying out each step in simple terms, and presenting everything with energy and confidence. By following the tips and ideas we’ve explored, you’ll be well on your way to creating a memorable and impactful demonstration speech.

If you’re still feeling nervous, just remember—sharpening your skills takes consistent effort. The more you hone your demonstration speech skills, the more natural and effective your delivery will become. So jump on in, the world’s waiting for what you’ve got to say.

• Last Updated: May 9, 2024

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Types of Speeches: The Demonstration

A demonstration speech is an educational or promotional presentation that explains a process, activity or product. It walks the audience through the keys points so that, after the presentation, they can repeat the process or activity or know how to use the product.

If you decide to become a professional speaker or use speaking as an integral part of your marketing strategy, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the various types of speeches you might be asked to give. In this series of posts, I’ll give you the basics of a variety of types of presentations you can prepare. At the end of this post, I’ve listed previous articles in this series.

How do you demonstrate something?

Regardless of what you’re demonstrating, you need to break it down into easy to understand steps. A simple outline for a demonstration presentation might look like this:

Things to keep in mind when doing a demonstration:

• Be as clear and specific as possible. Remember, you are training your audience so that they can repeat what you are doing and perform the process, engage in the activity or use the product once you are done. Use strong visual words in addition to physically showing them what to do.
• Give them a reason to listen. You want to motivate your audience to pay attention to your presentation. While entertainment can be motivating, you want to give them something more, as well. Why should they learn about the process, activity or product you are demonstrating. For example, have you ever seen those cooking product demonstrations at the fair? The demonstrators are usually pretty good at letting the audience know the benefit gained by owning the product being demonstrated!
• Plan, plan, plan. Make sure you have all the tools you need and that you can smoothly move from one to the other. You don’t want to waste time moving from one place to another or retrieving another object when simple planning can put these in the right places for best effect.

Resources for developing your demonstration speech:

• eHow: How to Give a Demonstrative Presentation
• Best-Speech-Topics.com: Demonstration Speeches
• WikiHow: How to Write a Demonstrative Speech
• Ian’s Messy Desk: How to Give a Demonstration Speech Like a Food Network Star
• How to Master the Demonstration Speech /li>

Did you miss these?

Here are the previous posts in this “Type of Speeches” series:

• The Keynote Address
• The Training Session
• The Motivational Speech
• The Entertaining Speech

The next post in this series is The Information Dump .

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With 20+ years experience in marketing communications and public relations, natural intuitive skills and certification in using some of the most effective transformational coaching tools available, Carma’s mission and commitment is to unleash the inner power every woman entrepreneur possesses so they can boldly go out into the world, transforming the fabric of people’s lives in meaningful and positive ways.

You can find her on Facebook , Twitter , Google+ and LinkedIn . Her website is CarmaSpence.com .

Demonstration Speech

Demonstration speech generator.

Some tasks can be difficult or challenging to do. Especially when you have no clue on where to start and how to start. So being able to do the challenge perfectly or to a T can sometimes be tiring. But even the most challenging tasks, there are always solutions for them. That solution could be in the form of a person teaching you the steps or a speech telling you how. Here are some 10+ demonstration speech examples to help you out. 

10+ Demonstration Speech Examples

1. demonstration speech assignment.

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2. Demonstration Speech Template

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3. Outline for Demonstration Speech

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4. Standard Demonstration Speech

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5. Demonstration Speech Statement

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6. Demonstration Speech Planner

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7. Basic Demonstration Speech

8. Audience Demonstration Speech

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9. Printable Demonstration Speech

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10. Teaching Demonstration Speech

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11. Expository Demonstration Speech

Size: 135 KB

Definition of Speech

The meaning of speech is a formal address, a formal lecture or discussion delivered to an audience. A way to communicate a person’s thoughts through spoken words. In addition to that, a speech is a formal talk often given in special events like a wedding or a graduation. It is often given to a large group of people.

Definition of Demonstration

Demonstration is the act of proving or presenting something. It could be in the form of reasoning or a show of evidence. The ability to exhibit the steps of doing something to someone. In addition to that, it is to serve as proof or to support the evidence of something being done.

Definition of Demonstration Speech

This speech is a type of informative speech. A demonstration speech is where the speaker’s purpose is to educate the audience on how to complete a set of tasks. It can also mean to educate the audience on how to finish a task being given or to educate about the process. To be able to do this, it is largely accomplished by showing how the task is done through a series of carefully thought out steps.

Importance of Demonstration Speech

The importance of this type of speech is to show the process. To explain to an individual or a group of people the steps to how things are done. To point out the solutions in the form of a speech. To illustrate how something is done. To be able to educate the audience through a step by step process. Often given with visuals to make it easier.

Tips for Presenting a Demonstration Speech

Let’s face it. Presenting speeches can be scary sometimes and is not everyone’s strongest point. So if you are told to make a presentation speech, the first instinct is to let someone else do it for you. But like your topic, there is a way to present the speech. Check out these step by step tips to guide you.

• Know your audience – The first thing you need to do before presenting your speech is to know your audience. If you are preaching to a group of middle school students , use words fit for their level. The reason for this is because there may be some words that are not appropriate for younger audiences and vice versa.
• Avoid difficult explanations-  As much as possible, avoid using difficult explanations. The purpose of your speech is to help them. To give them information on how to do this and that. Not to confuse them even more. Use general terms and words when explaining. This is not only universal, but it is also easy to understand.
• Make eye contact-  Even when you are showing them the process of how it is done, do not forget to make eye contact. This not only draws attention to you and your presentation, but this also helps you see if they have understood you and the purpose of your speech or not.
• Use visual aids –  some people learn better with visual aids. Visual aids also help them see the steps and how it is done. Especially if your visual aids show different photos step by step and explanations.
• Understand the needs of your audience-  Understand that your objective is to put yourself in their shoes. Say you are explaining to a university student where their experiment went wrong. By showing them the steps and to inform or guide them, you will surely hit your target. Also, avoid having to lose your patience or temper when you present. Remember, you must understand their needs, and that happens to demonstrate how it is done.

What is a demonstration speech?

This speech is a type of informative speech. It gives you information like how to demonstrate your topic.

What use is a demonstration speech for students?

A demonstration speech for students is a type of informative speech. This helps students understand and learn the steps or to learn how to educate through step by step instructions.

Do you need to place objectives in your speech?

The objectives are only your guidelines on what you want to achieve or talk about in your speech.

A demonstration speech is simply an informative speech. You give out information on how to do this and how to do that. You use this type of speech when you are presenting something. For students, this helps them with explaining step by step instructions to do something that may be too difficult. Presenting one can be tricky since you should not make it too long or too short. But with practice and the tips above, you surely are going to make it work out.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Create a demonstration speech for a cooking class

Help me write a demonstration speech for a DIY home repair workshop

Informative Speeches — Types, Topics, and Examples

What is an informative speech.

An informative speech uses descriptions, demonstrations, and strong detail to explain a person, place, or subject. An informative speech makes a complex topic easier to understand and focuses on delivering information, rather than providing a persuasive argument.

Types of informative speeches

The most common types of informative speeches are definition, explanation, description, and demonstration.

A definition speech explains a concept, theory, or philosophy about which the audience knows little. The purpose of the speech is to inform the audience so they understand the main aspects of the subject matter.

An explanatory speech presents information on the state of a given topic. The purpose is to provide a specific viewpoint on the chosen subject. Speakers typically incorporate a visual of data and/or statistics.

The speaker of a descriptive speech provides audiences with a detailed and vivid description of an activity, person, place, or object using elaborate imagery to make the subject matter memorable.

A demonstrative speech explains how to perform a particular task or carry out a process. These speeches often demonstrate the following:

How to do something

How to make something

How to fix something

How something works

How to write an informative speech

Regardless of the type, every informative speech should include an introduction, a hook, background information, a thesis, the main points, and a conclusion.

Introduction

An attention grabber or hook draws in the audience and sets the tone for the speech. The technique the speaker uses should reflect the subject matter in some way (i.e., if the topic is serious in nature, do not open with a joke). Therefore, when choosing an attention grabber, consider the following:

What’s the topic of the speech?

What’s the occasion?

Who’s the audience?

What’s the purpose of the speech?

Common Attention Grabbers (Hooks)

Ask a question that allows the audience to respond in a non-verbal way (e.g., a poll question where they can simply raise their hands) or ask a rhetorical question that makes the audience think of the topic in a certain way yet requires no response.

Incorporate a well-known quote that introduces the topic. Using the words of a celebrated individual gives credibility and authority to the information in the speech.

Offer a startling statement or information about the topic, which is typically done using data or statistics. The statement should surprise the audience in some way.

Provide a brief anecdote that relates to the topic in some way.

Present a “what if” scenario that connects to the subject matter of the speech.

Identify the importance of the speech’s topic.

Starting a speech with a humorous statement often makes the audience more comfortable with the speaker.

Include any background information pertinent to the topic that the audience needs to know to understand the speech in its entirety.

The thesis statement shares the central purpose of the speech.

Demonstrate

Preview the main ideas that will help accomplish the central purpose. Typically, informational speeches will have an average of three main ideas.

Body paragraphs

Apply the following to each main idea (body) :

Identify the main idea ( NOTE: The main points of a demonstration speech would be the individual steps.)

Provide evidence to support the main idea

Explain how the evidence supports the main idea/central purpose

Transition to the next main idea

Review or restate the thesis and the main points presented throughout the speech.

Much like the attention grabber, the closing statement should interest the audience. Some of the more common techniques include a challenge, a rhetorical question, or restating relevant information:

Provide the audience with a challenge or call to action to apply the presented information to real life.

Detail the benefit of the information.

Close with an anecdote or brief story that illustrates the main points.

Leave the audience with a rhetorical question to ponder after the speech has concluded.

Detail the relevance of the presented information.

Before speech writing, brainstorm a list of informative speech topic ideas. The right topic depends on the type of speech, but good topics can range from video games to disabilities and electric cars to healthcare and mental health.

Informative speech topics

Some common informative essay topics for each type of informational speech include the following:

Informative speech examples

The following list identifies famous informational speeches:

“Duties of American Citizenship” by Theodore Roosevelt

“Duty, Honor, Country” by General Douglas MacArthur

“Strength and Dignity” by Theodore Roosevelt

Explanation

“Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death” by Patrick Henry

“The Decision to Go to the Moon” by John F. Kennedy

“We Shall Fight on the Beaches” by Winston Churchill

Description

“I Have a Dream” by Martin Luther King, Jr.

“Pearl Harbor Address” by Franklin Delano Roosevelt

“Luckiest Man” by Lou Gehrig

Demonstration

The Way to Cook with Julia Child

This Old House with Bob Vila

Bill Nye the Science Guy with Bill Nye

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demonstration

Definition of demonstration

• demo [ British ]

Examples of demonstration in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'demonstration.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English demonstracioun, borrowed from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French demonstration, demustracioun, borrowed from Latin dēmonstrātiōn-, dēmonstrātiō "action of pointing out, description, explanation" (Late Latin, "deduction, proof"), from dēmonstrāre "to indicate, describe, show" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at demonstrate

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing demonstration

• counter - demonstration

Dictionary Entries Near demonstration

demonstrate

demonstrative

Cite this Entry

“Demonstration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/demonstration. Accessed 1 Sep. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of demonstration, medical definition, medical definition of demonstration, more from merriam-webster on demonstration.

Nglish: Translation of demonstration for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of demonstration for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about demonstration

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Module 2: Informative Speaking

Types of informative speeches.

In the last section we examined how informative speakers need to be objective, credible, knowledgeable, and how they need to make the topic relevant to their audience. This section discusses the four primary types of informative speeches. These include definitional speeches, descriptive speeches, explanatory speeches, and demonstration speeches.

Definitional Speeches

In definitional speeches the speaker attempts to set forth the meaning of concepts, theories, philosophies, or issues that may be unfamiliar to the audience. In these types of speeches, speakers may begin by giving the historical derivation, classification, or synonyms of terms or the background of the subject. In a speech on “How to identify a sociopath,” the speaker may answer these questions: Where did the word ‘sociopath’ come from? What is a sociopath? How many sociopaths are there in the population? What are the symptoms? Carefully define your terminology to give shape to things the audience cannot directly sense. Describing the essential attributes of one concept compared to another (as through use of analogies) can increase understanding as well. For a speech on “Elderly Abuse,” the speaker may compare this type of abuse to child or spousal abuse for contrast.

Regardless of the listeners’ level of knowledge about the subject, it is very important in these types of speeches to show the relevance of the topic to their lives. Often the topics discussed in definitional speeches are abstract—distanced from reality. So provide explicit, real-life examples and applications of the subject matter. If you were going to give a speech about civil rights, you would need to go beyond commonly held meanings and show the topic in a new light. In this type of speech, the speaker points out the unique and distinguishing properties or boundaries of a concept in a particular context (Rinehart, 2002). The meaning of “civil rights” has changed significantly over time. What does it mean today compared to the 1960s? How will knowing this distinction help audience members? What are some specific incidents involving civil rights issues in current news? What changes in civil rights legislation might listeners see in their lifetimes?

Sample Definitional Speech Outline

Title: “Life is suffering,” and Other Buddhist Teachings (Thompson, 1999)

Specific Purpose: At the end of my speech, my audience will understand the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path in Buddhism

Central Idea: Regardless of your religious beliefs, Buddhist philosophy teaches a number of useful lessons you can apply to your own life.

• All life involves dukkha (suffering)
• Suffering is caused by tanha (longing for things to be other than they are)
• If this longing stops ( nirodha ), suffering will cease
• The way to eliminate longing is to follow the Eightfold Path
• Right intention
• Right speech
• Right action
• Right livelihood
• Right effort
• Right mindfulness
• Right contemplation

Descriptive Speeches

To gaze in wonder at that magnificent dome and elegant gardens will be a moment that you remember for the rest of your life. The Taj Mahal just takes your breath away. What is immediately striking is its graceful symmetry—geometric lines run through formal gardens ending in a white marble platform. Atop this platform is great white bulbous dome complemented by four towering minarets in each corner. The whole image shimmers in a reflecting pool flanked by beautiful gardens—the effect is magical. The first stretch by the reflecting pool is where most people pose for their photos. But we were impressed by the fresh, green gardens. As you approach through the gardens two mosques come into view flanking the Taj—both exquisitely carved and built of red sandstone.

In the descriptive speech, determine the characteristics, features, functions, or fine points of the topic. What makes the person unique? How did the person make you feel? What adjectives apply to the subject? What kind of material is the object made from? What shape is it? What color is it? What does it smell like? Is it part of a larger system? Can it be seen by the naked eye? What is its geography or location in space? How has it changed or evolved over time? How does it compare to a similar object? When preparing for the speech, try to think of ways to appeal to as many of the senses as possible. As an example, in a speech about different types of curried dishes, you could probably verbally describe the difference between yellow, red, and green curry, but the speech will have more impact if the audience can see, smell, and taste samples.

Sample Descriptive Speech Outline

Specific Purpose: At the end of my speech, my audience will be able to visualize some of the main attractions on Easter Island.

Central Idea: Easter Island hosts a number of ancient, mysterious, and beautiful attractions that make it an ideal vacation destination.

• Average 13 feet high; 14 tons
• Play sacred role for Rapa Nui (native inhabitants)
• Central Ahu ceremonial sites
• Snorkeling & Scuba
• Giant crater
• Sheer cliffs to ocean

Be able to describe anything visual, such as a street scene, in words that convey your meaning. ~ Marilyn vos Savant

Explanatory Speeches

An explanatory speech (also known as a briefing) is similar to the descriptive speech in that they both share the function of clarifying the topic. But explanatory speeches focus on reports of current and historical events, customs, transformations, inventions, policies, outcomes, and options. Whereas descriptive speeches attempt to paint a picture with words so that audiences can vicariously experience it, explanatory speeches focus on the how or why of a subject and its consequences. Thus, a speaker might give a descriptive speech on the daily life of Marie Antoinette, or an explanatory speech on how she came to her death. Recall that definitional speeches focus on delineating concepts or issues. In this case, a speaker might give a definitional speech about the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, or an explanatory speech on why the financial bailout was necessary for U.S. financial stability.

If a manager wanted to inform employees about a new workplace internet use policy, s/he might cover questions like: Why was a policy implemented? How will it help? What happens if people do not follow established policies? Explanatory speeches are less concerned with appealing to the senses than connecting the topic to a series of related other subjects to enhance a deep understanding (McKerrow, Gronbeck, Ehninger, & Monroe, 2000). For example, to explain the custom of the Thai wai greeting (hands pressed together as in prayer), you also need to explain how it originated to show one had no weapons, and the ways it is tied to religion, gender, age, and status.

Sample Explanatory Speech Outline

Title: Giant Waves, Death, and Devastation: The 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami (National Geographic, 2006)

Specific Purpose: At the end of my speech, my audience will be aware of the nature of the 2004 Tsunami and the destruction it caused.

Central Idea: The 2004 Asian Tsunami was one of the worst natural disasters in human history in terms of magnitude, loss of human life, and enduring impact.

• Earthquake epicenter and magnitude
• Tsunami forms (waves reach up to 100 feet)
• Tsunami strikes land of various countries with no warning
• The countries and people involved
• Loss of food, water, hospitals, housing, electricity, and plumbing
• Threat of disease
• Environmental destruction
• Economic devastation
• Psychological trauma

I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand. – Confucious

Demonstration Speeches

The most practical of all informative speeches, a demonstration speech shows listeners how some process is accomplished or how to perform it themselves. The focus is on a chronological explanation of some process (how potato chips are made), procedure (how to fight fires on a submarine), application (how to use the calendar function in Outlook), or course of action (how court cases proceed to Supreme Court status). Speakers might focus on processes that have a series of steps with a specific beginning and end (how to sell a home by yourself) or the process may be continuous (how to maintain the hard drive on your computer to prevent crashes). Demonstration speeches can be challenging to write due to the fact that the process may involve several objects, a set of tools, materials, or a number of related relationships or events (Rinehart, 2002). Nevertheless, these types of speeches provide the greatest opportunity for audience members to get involved or apply the information later.

When preparing this speech, remember first to keep the safety of the audience in mind. One speaker severely burned his professor when he accidently spilled hot oil from a wok on her. Another student nearly took the heads off listeners when he was demonstrating how to swing a baseball bat. Keep in mind also that you may need to bring in examples or pictures of completed steps in order to make efficient use of your time. Just think of the way that cooking demonstrations are done on TV—the ingredients are premeasured, the food is premixed, and the mixture magically goes from uncooked to cooked in a matter of seconds. Finally, if you are having your audience participate during your presentation (making an origami sculpture), know what their knowledge level is so that you don’t make them feel unintelligent if they are not successful. Practice your speech with friends who know nothing about the topic to gauge if listeners can do what you are asking them to do in the time allotted.

Sample Demonstration Speech Outline

Title: How to Survive if You Get Stranded in the Wilderness (U.S. Department of Defense, 2006).

Specific Purpose: At the end of my speech my audience will understand what to do if they unexpectedly become stranded in the wilderness.

Central Idea: You can greatly improve your ability to stay alive and safe in the wilderness by learning a few simple survival techniques.

• Size up the surroundings
• Size up your physical and mental states
• Size up your equipment (handout “What to Include in a Survival Kit”)
• Obtaining water
• Acquiring food
• Building a fire
• Locating shelter
• Call or signal rescue personnel
• Wilderness navigation
• Leaving “bread crumb” trail
• Chapter 15 Types of Informative Speeches. Authored by : Lisa Schreiber, Ph.D.. Provided by : Millersville University, Millersville, PA. Located at : http://publicspeakingproject.org/psvirtualtext.html . Project : Public Speaking Project. License : CC BY-NC-ND: Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives
• Taj Mahal, Agra, India. Authored by : Yann. Located at : https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Taj_Mahal,_Agra,_India.jpg . License : CC BY-SA: Attribution-ShareAlike
• Maoi at Rano Raraku. Authored by : Aurbina. Located at : https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Moai_Rano_raraku.jpg . License : Public Domain: No Known Copyright

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Demonstration.

Other forms: demonstrations

A demonstration is a show, or display. If you are against war, you might go to an anti-war demonstration in front of the White House. You might need to see a demonstration of napkin folding before you take a job as a waitress.

Dressing well for a job interview and showing up on time is considered a demonstration of your seriousness about the job. Crying is a demonstration of your feelings. If you sell website design you can make a demonstration site, or demo , so clients can see what they would get if they hired you.

• noun a show or display; the act of presenting something to sight or view “he gave the customer a demonstration ” synonyms: presentation , presentment see more see less types: show 19 types... hide 19 types... exhibition the act of exhibiting exposure presentation to view in an open or public manner performance the act of presenting a play or a piece of music or other entertainment lecture demonstration presentation of an example of what the lecturer is discoursing about counterdemonstration a demonstration held in opposition to another demonstration dramatic performance , dramatic production the act of performing a drama encore an extra or repeated performance; usually given in response to audience demand extemporisation , extemporization , improvisation a performance given extempore without planning or preparation juggle , juggling throwing and catching several objects simultaneously conjuration , conjuring trick , deception , illusion , legerdemain , magic , magic trick , thaumaturgy , trick an illusory feat; considered magical by naive observers musical performance the act of performing music one-night stand a performance in one place on one night only interpretation , rendering , rendition the act of interpreting something as expressed in an artistic performance last hurrah , swan song a final performance or effort (especially before retirement) debunking , repudiation the exposure of falseness or pretensions production (law) the act of exhibiting in a court of law rodeo an exhibition of cowboy skills program , programme a performance (or series of performances) at a public presentation reprise the act of performing a role again type of: show the act of publicly exhibiting or entertaining
• noun a visual presentation showing how something works “the lecture was accompanied by dramatic demonstrations ” “the lecturer shot off a pistol as a demonstration of the startle response” synonyms: demo see more see less types: show 8 types... hide 8 types... display , show something intended to communicate a particular impression expression , manifestation , reflection , reflexion expression without words exemplification , illustration showing by example lamentation , mourning the passionate and demonstrative activity of expressing grief big stick a display of force or power gaudery , pomp cheap or pretentious or vain display act a manifestation of insincerity blowup , ebullition , effusion , gush , outburst an unrestrained expression of emotion type of: visual communication communication that relies on vision
• noun a public display of group feelings (usually of a political nature) “there were violent demonstrations against the war” synonyms: manifestation see more see less examples: Boston Tea Party demonstration (1773) by citizens of Boston who (disguised as Native Americans) raided three British ships in Boston harbor and dumped hundreds of chests of tea into the harbor; organized as a protest against taxes on tea types: show 4 types... hide 4 types... work-in occasion when workers continue to work as a protest against e.g. proposed dismissal or closure of the factory protest march occasion when you can express opposition by marching (usually on some government institution) without a license vigil a peaceful, stationary demonstration or protest, especially at night peace march a protest march against (a particular) war and in favor of peace type of: dissent , objection , protest the act of protesting; a public (often organized) manifestation of dissent
• noun a show of military force or preparedness “he confused the enemy with feints and demonstrations ” see more see less type of: show the act of publicly exhibiting or entertaining
• noun proof by a process of argument or a series of proposition proving an asserted conclusion synonyms: monstrance see more see less type of: proof a formal series of statements showing that if one thing is true something else necessarily follows from it

Vocabulary lists containing demonstration

On August 28, 1963 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. Speaking from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., King stood before an estimated quarter of a million people who had gathered to demonstrate for passage of the Civil Rights Act.

The Academic Vocabulary Toolkit focuses on words used across different subject areas and careers in spoken and written communication. Learn these lists to help you succeed in school and work: Words 1-10 , Words 11-20 , Words 21-30 , Words 31-40 , Words 41-50 , Words 51-60 , Words 61-70 , Words 71-80 , Words 81-90 , Words 91-100

Richly illustrated with archival photos, this book offers an account of the 1961 Freedom Ride, a protest of unconstitutional racial segregation on buses.

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