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146+ Informative Speech Examples, Samples, Outlines, and Topics: Get Inspired

May 2, 2024

May 2, 2024 | Blog

Have you ever wondered what makes a speech truly informative and engaging? In exploring informative speech examples, we’ll dissect the elements that make a speech impactful and provide insights on crafting your compelling narrative. Whether you’re gearing up for a class presentation or simply curious about effective communication, we’ve got you covered.

What exactly is an informative speech, you ask? Well, think of it as a chance to share knowledge with your audience, like being a friendly guide on a journey of information. Unlike persuasive speeches aiming to sway opinions, informative speeches focus on presenting facts, ideas, or explanations.

So, let’s delve into this world of words, where you’ll discover the nuances of different speech types, from brief and concept speeches to autobiographical gems.

Ready to dive in? Let’s roll!

Table of Contents

What Are Informative Speeches

Imagine you’re sharing cool facts with your friends. That’s an informative speech! It’s a type of speech where you deliver fascinating details to your audience.

But wait, isn’t that the same as an explanatory speech? Not quite!

While an explanatory speech clarifies, an informative one educates. So, think of yourself as a friendly guide, not a textbook.

Your mission? Present relevant information, explain concepts, and make sure your audience leaves enlightened. No convincing is informative and needed; just sharing knowledge like a pro!

Ready to inform? Let’s roll!

Effective Informative Speaking Vs. Persuasive Speaking

Let’s talk about the difference between effective informativeand persuasive speaking. Imagine you’re presenting a persuasive speech – you’re on a mission to convince your audience to see things your way. It’s like being a smooth talker, aiming to sway opinions.

Conversely, informative peaking is like a friendly guide, sharing facts without pushing a particular viewpoint. So, how do you think you could spot the variance?

In persuasive speeches, your closing statement is like the grand finale, the big persuasion moment. In informative speeches, it’s more about leaving your audience with a clear understanding.

Remember, it’s not about convincing; it’s about enlightening. So, when choosing a topic, ask yourself, “Am I trying to persuade or inform?” That’s the key to crafting a speech that hits the right notes for your audience.

How do you write a good informative speech?

Let’s dive into the art of crafting a stellar informative speech. Have you ever wondered what makes public speaking a task and an opportunity to share knowledge? Here’s your guide:

• Start with a Clear Purpose: Ask yourself, “What’s my goal here? Am I educating, explaining, or demonstrating?” Knowing your purpose helps shape your entire speech.
• Know Your Audience: Who are you talking to? I think it’s important that you understand your audience’s knowledge level. Are they familiar with the topic, or is it new territory?
• Choose a Relevant Topic: Pick something your audience can connect with. Remember, it’s about them understanding, not you impressing.
• Research Like a Pro: Dive into your topic like a detective. Gather facts, examples, and anecdotes. The more well-researched your speech, the more credible you become.
• Craft a Clear Structure: Organize your speech logically. Start with an introduction, followed by main points, and end with a memorable conclusion. Think of it as a journey with a roadmap.
• Engage with Your Audience: Connect with nonverbal cues – eye contact and gestures. Imagine you’re having a conversation, not delivering a monologue.
• Keep It Simple: Explain complex concepts in simple terms. Avoid jargon that might confuse your audience.
• Be Passionate: Even if your topic seems dry, let your enthusiasm shine through. Your passion is contagious!

For students juggling academic responsibilities with speech preparation, platforms like MyAssignmentHelp.com can be a lifesaver. Whether you need assistance with “ write my paper ” services or expert guidance on your speech, they offer comprehensive support to help you excel.

How To Start An Informative Speech Examples

Have you ever wondered how to kick off an informative speech and grab your audience’s attention? Let’s break it down:

• Hook Your Audience: To start an informative speech, begin with a captivating fact, a relatable story, or a surprising statistic. Think of it as reeling in your audience, making them eager to hear more.
• Establish a Friendly Tone: In your introduction for an informative speech, set a welcoming atmosphere. Imagine you’re chatting with friends, creating a connection from the get-go.
• Declare Your Purpose: Could you explain why you’re there? Are you going to educate the audience on a fascinating topic or perhaps deliver an informative speech to clarify a concept?
• Please look over the Journey: Outline the main points you’ll cover. It’s like giving your audience a roadmap for the upcoming adventure. Could you let them know what to expect? Connect with nonverbal cues – eye contact and gestures
• Engage Your Audience: Interact with your audience members. Ask questions and share relatable experiences – make them part of the conversation. After all, an informative speech is a two-way street.

What does a good informative speech look like?

So, you’re curious about what a good informative speech looks like? Fantastic! Let’s paint a picture together:

• Clear Introduction: A great informative speech kicks off with a bang. Imagine it like a friendly invitation – you want your audience excited to join you on this learning journey. Ask a thought-provoking question or share an intriguing fact to grab their attention.
• Defined Purpose: Right out of the gate, your audience should know what type of speech they’re in for. Are you here to educate, explain, or show something cool? Make it crystal clear.
• Organized Structure: Picture your speech like a well-arranged book. Start with a captivating introduction, smoothly move through your main points, and wrap it up with a memorable conclusion. Think of it as a roadmap guiding your audience through the information.
• Engaging Content: Sprinkle your speech with relatable examples, anecdotes, or even a touch of humor. Keep your audience on their toes – you want them to remember your words.
• Visual Aids: If you’re explaining a process or showing statistics, use visuals. A picture is worth a thousand words.
• Connect with Your Audience: It’s about delivering information and connecting. Imagine you’re having a friendly chat, not delivering a lecture. Engage with your audience through eye contact and a conversational tone.
• Avoid Overloading with Information: While you want to be informative, avoid overwhelming your audience with a data dump. Pick the juiciest, most relevant information to keep them interested.
• Memorable Conclusion: Wrap things up with a bow. Summing up your main points and leaving your audience with a clear understanding. It’s like leaving a lasting impression after a great conversation.

What are examples of informative writing?

The following is an informative speaking excerpt on smoking:

It is general knowledge that smoking is bad for your health. Yet, the number of smokers globally increases each year. In 2018, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 1.1 billion people in the world use tobacco. That number might rise to 1.6 billion by 2025.

Tobacco kills, which smokers ignore until they get cancer or another terminal disease. It results in 6 million deaths per year. That means that there is one tobacco-related death every six seconds.

That said, a lack of information about the effects of smoking is a significant contributor to this pandemic. A survey conducted in China revealed that only 38% of tobacco smokers knew the habit could lead to heart disease, and only as few as 27% were aware smoking could cause a stroke.

Ignorance is no defense. So, today, I will present the adverse effects of tobacco and back them up with facts and real-world statistics.

The following is another informative speaking excerpt on global warming:

A  global warming  search on Google brings back 65 million results pages. The subject has drawn a lot of attention due to  adverse climate change . In a speech presented at the UN Summit in 2019, Barrack Obama said that we must solve climate change swiftly and boldly or risk leaving future generations to an irreversible catastrophe.

A YouTube Influencer, Prince EA, addressed this issue by saying that our descendants will know it as the Amazon Desert instead of the Amazon Rainforest if we are not careful. Imagining the Amazon as a dessert should give you chills, and it seems so farfetched, but it could be a reality if global warming is not addressed.

But what exactly is global warming? What causes it? And what can we do to stop it? In this short but informative speech, I will answer these questions effectively.

Examples of Informative Speeches in Literature or Popular Culture:

Excerpt from Marie Curie’s speech on the discovery of radium:

I could tell you many things about radium and radioactivity, and it would take a long time. But as we can not do that, I shall only give you a short account of my early work about radium. Radium is no longer a baby; it is more than twenty years old, but the discovery conditions were somewhat peculiar, so remembering and explaining them is always of interest. We must go back to the year 1897. Professor Curie and I worked then in the School of Physics and Chemistry laboratory, where Professor Curie held his lectures. I was engaged in some work on uranium rays which had been discovered two years before by Professor Becquerel.***I spent some time studying the way of making good measurements of the uranium rays, and then I wanted to know if there were other elements, giving out rays of the same kind. So I took up work about all known elements and their compounds and found that uranium compounds and all thorium compounds are active, but other elements were not found active, nor were their compounds. As for the uranium and thorium compounds, I found that they were active in proportion to their uranium or thorium content.

The impassioned political speech by President George W. Bush’s address to the nation as the US attacked Iraq begins as an informative speech:

At this hour, American and coalition forces are in the early stages of military operations to disarm Iraq, free its people, and defend the world from grave danger.

On my orders, coalition forces began striking selected targets of military importance to undermine Saddam Hussein’s ability to wage war. These are the opening stages of a broad and concerted campaign.

More than 35 countries are giving crucial support, from using naval and air bases to help with intelligence and logistics to deploying combat units. Every nation in this coalition has chosen to bear the duty and share the honor of serving in our common defense.

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How To Write An Informative Speech Outline

• Start with a Clear Purpose: Before diving into the details, ask yourself, “What’s the goal here?” Is it to convince the audience of a particular viewpoint or inform them about a topic?
• Pick Your Main Points: Could you identify the key ideas you want to convey? Imagine telling a friend about your favorite movie – what would you highlight?
• Organize Your Thoughts: Arrange your main points logically. Think of it as creating a roadmap for your audience. You want them to follow along easily.
• Add Supporting Details: Each main point needs backup dancers! Sprinkle in facts, examples, or anecdotes. This isn’t a demonstrative speech , but adding a story here and there keeps it engaging.
• Create a Memorable Introduction: Your introduction is like the trailer for a movie. It should grab attention and hint at what’s coming. Consider posing a question or sharing a surprising fact.
• Conclude Strong: Summing up your main points and leave a lasting impression. A good conclusion for an informative speech should tell your audience, “Wow, I learned something valuable!”
• Practice Your Timing: A well-prepared speaker keeps an eye on the clock. Ensure your speech runs smoothly or cut smoothly, not run too long or cut too short.
• Be Open to Adjustments: Sometimes, the best ideas appear during practice. Be flexible and tweak your outline if needed.  For tutoring, check out Spark  on how to create an informative speech outline.

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10+ informative speech examples & samples in pdf, alliteration examples in literature , informative speeches about concepts, informative speeches about objects, list of informative speech topics: ideas to spark your creativity, informative speeches topics for history and the humanities.

1.      The Olympics in Ancient Greece

2.      Explore the history of tattoos and body art

3.      Economic divisions and the Vietnam War

4.      Burial practices in ancient cultures and societies

5.      How escaped enslaved people communicated along the Underground Railroad

6.      Immigration history in America

7.      Mahatma Gandhi and Indian apartheid

8.      Innovations that came out of the great wars

9.      The assassination of John F Kennedy

10.  Sculpture in the Renaissance

11.  The Salem Witch Trials

12.  Colonization and its impact on the European powers in the Age of Exploration and beyond

13.  The Gold Rush in California and its impact or significance

14.  Fashion in Victorian Britain

15.  Japanese Kamikaze fighters during World War II

16.  The significance of the Stonewall Riots

17.  The Spanish Flu

18.  Rum running during Prohibition

19.  Society and life in the Dark Ages

20.  The mystery of Leonardo DaVinci’s Mona Lisa painting

Interesting Topic Ideas For English And Classic Literature

1.      Depictions of classic literature in modern films

2.      Depictions of the apocalypse in literature and fiction

3.      Common themes in Victorian literature from the th century

4.      How to beat writer’s block

5.      Symbolism in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird

6.      The history of spirits or the supernatural in classic literature

7.      The concept of madness in William Shakespeare’s tragedies

8.      War poetry from any period

9.      How Shakespeare’s plays helped shape the modern language

10.  Ernest Hemingway’s narrative on masculinity

11.  How to define the canons of classic literature

12.  Which books published today would be classic literature in the future?

13.  Common themes in Gothic literature

14.  Feminist theory and the works of Charlotte Perkins Gilman

15.  The practice of banning books and literature from schools

16.  Rhetorical analysis of Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech

17.  Satire in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice

18.  Human nature in Plato’s The Republic

19.  The impact of modern technology on literature and publishing

20.  Rationality in William Golding’s Lord of the Flies

Intriguing Topics About Current Affairs, Social Issues, And Human Rights

1.      Current social movements such as Black Lives Matter or the Occupy Wall Street movement

2.      The influence of cultural traditions on human rights in various countries

3.      Benefits of social media for collective action in areas where human rights are being contested

4.      Support and guidance for troubled children in the current foster care system

5.      The prevalence of child abuse in modern society

6.      The United Nations Human Rights Council and its purpose/function

7.      Women’s rights/freedoms in third world countries

8.      Human trafficking in first-world countries

9.      Patterns in America’s fastest-growing cities

10.  Generational divisions and tensions between Baby Boomers, Millennials, or Generation Z

11.  The concept of universal human rights

12.  What our society has learned from the COVID- pandemic

13.  Uses of torture to extract information from high-level criminals or terrorists

14.  The influence of Westernization on human rights in other countries

15.  The role of the United Nations in the interest of global human rights

16.  Racial prejudice in the workplace

17.  Explore modern protest culture

18.  Idolization of celebrities in modern society

19.  “Viral” culture in today’s society

20.  Social media influencers and Tik Tok stars and their celebrity status among Generation Z

Creative Ideas For Film, Music, And Popular Culture

1.      Mythology in popular culture

2.      Censorship issues in music

3.      Superhero culture in society

4.      Focus on a music subculture and how it has empowered that group of people

5.      Modern horror films and “shock value”

6.      The importance of teaching music in elementary and high schools

7.      The impact of a historical musician or musical group and their impact on today’s music

8.      How streaming services have changed the film/television or music industry

9.      Domestic violence in the media

10.  Disney princesses and their impact on young girls in society

11.  The history of jazz music in New Orleans

12.  Crime scene television – accuracies and inaccuracies

13.  Which popular cultural artifacts will archaeologists study in the future to learn about our society?

14.  The role of music in social movements

15.  Originality in today’s music, movies, or television shows

16.  Religious symbolism in Star Wars

17.  The current status of the idea of the “Blockbuster” movie

18.  Child stars and the problems they face as they age

19.  Sexuality and messaging in film and television

20.  The power of satire in comedy

What are some good topics for an informative speech?

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Get Help With Your Informative Speech Writing

Need help with your informative speech? Fret not! Essay Freelance Writers has your back. Our expert team excels in crafting top-notch speeches tailored just for you. How do I nail that conclusion for an informative speech? We’ve got the perfect formula. But hey, what exactly is an informative speech, you ask? It’s a dynamic way to inform the audience and share knowledge. Our skilled writers present information effectively and ensure your speech leaves a lasting impact. Whether you need to define informative speech elements or deliver a compelling information speech, our team guides you. So, why stress? Click that ORDER NOW button to make your informative speech shine!

What is an example of an informative speech?

An example of informative speaking could be a presentation on climate change, providing facts and data to educate the audience.

What are good informative speech topics?

Good informative speech topics include subjects like space exploration, sustainable living, or the history of ancient civilizations.

What is an example of an informative speech about objects?

An informative speech about objects could focus on the history and significance of a specific artifact, like the Rosetta Stone.

What is a good introduction for an informative speech?

A good introduction for an informative speech grabs attention, such as posing a thought-provoking question or sharing a relevant anecdote, setting the tone for the presentation.

With a passion for helping students navigate their educational journey, I strive to create informative and relatable blog content. Whether it’s tackling exam stress, offering career guidance, or sharing effective study techniques

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15 Informative Speech Examples to Inspire Your Next Talk

• The Speaker Lab
• May 13, 2024

Table of Contents

A good informative speech is one of the most effective tools in a speaker’s arsenal. But with so many potential topics out there, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled 15 informative speech examples to help you find your perfect subject. Whether you’re unearthing secrets from history for your listeners or delving into future technologies, informative speeches can prove to be the recipe for the perfect talk.

But crafting an effective informative speech is about more than just picking a topic. You have to research topics, put your thoughts in order, and speak up clearly and confidently. In this post, we’ll explore strategies for each step of the process, so you can create a speech that informs, engages, and makes a lasting impact on your listeners. Let’s get started.

15 Informative Speech Examples

If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next informative speech, look no further. Below are 15 examples of informative speech topics that are sure to engage and educate your audience.

• The history and evolution of social media platforms
• The benefits and drawbacks of renewable energy sources
• The impact of sleep deprivation on mental and physical health
• The role of emotional intelligence in personal and professional success
• The science behind climate change and its potential consequences
• The importance of financial literacy for young adults
• The influence of artificial intelligence on various industries
• The benefits of regular exercise and a balanced diet
• The history and cultural significance of a specific art form or genre
• The impact of technology on interpersonal communication
• The psychology behind procrastination and effective strategies to overcome it
• The role of diversity and inclusion in fostering innovation and creativity
• The importance of mental health awareness and resources for students
• The future of space exploration and its potential benefits for humanity
• The impact of globalization on local economies and cultures

These topics cover a wide range of subjects, from technology and science to psychology and culture. By choosing one of these informative speech examples, you’ll have plenty of material to work with to create an engaging and educational presentation.

Remember, the key to a successful informative speech is to choose a topic that you’re passionate about and that will resonate with your audience. Do your research, organize your thoughts, and practice your delivery to ensure that your message comes across loud and clear.

What Is an Informative Speech?

If you’ve ever been to a conference or seminar, chances are you’ve heard an informative speech. But what exactly is an informative speech? Simply put, it’s a type of speech designed to educate the audience on a particular topic. The goal is to provide interesting and useful information, ensuring the audience walks away with new knowledge or insights. Unlike persuasive speeches that aim to convince the audience of a viewpoint, informative speeches focus on explaining a subject clearly and objectively.

Types of Informative Speeches

Informative speeches come in various forms, each with its own purpose. The most common types are definition, explanation, description, and demonstration speeches. Depending on the objective, an informative speech can take on different structures and styles.

For example, a definition speech aims to explain a concept or term, while a demonstration speech shows the audience how to perform a task or process. An explanatory speech, on the other hand, provides a detailed account of a complex subject, breaking it down into digestible parts.

Purpose of Informative Speeches

At its core, the purpose of an informative speech is to share knowledge with the audience. These speeches are characterized by their fact-based, non-persuasive nature. The focus is on delivering information in an engaging and accessible way.

A well-crafted informative speech not only educates but also sparks curiosity and encourages further learning. By dedicating yourself to providing valuable information and appealing to your audience’s interests, you can succeed as an informative speaker.

Strategies for Selecting an Informative Speech Topic

Choosing the right topic is crucial for an effective informative speech. You want a subject that is not only interesting to you but also relevant and engaging for your audience. Consider their knowledge level, background, and expectations when selecting your topic.

One strategy is to focus on a subject you’re passionate about or have expertise in. This allows you to speak with authority and enthusiasm, making your speech more compelling. Another approach is to address current events or trending topics that are on people’s minds.

When brainstorming potential topics, consider your speech’s purpose and the type of informative speech you want to deliver. Is your goal to define a concept, explain a process, describe an event, or demonstrate a skill? Answering these questions will help guide your topic selection.

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How to Write an Informative Speech

Now that you’ve selected your topic, it’s time to start writing your informative speech. The key to a successful speech is thorough preparation and a clear, organized structure. Let’s break down the steps involved in crafting an engaging and informative presentation.

Researching Your Topic

Before you start writing, it’s essential to conduct thorough research on your topic. Gather facts, statistics, examples, and other supporting information for your informative speech. These things will help you explain and clarify the subject matter to your audience.

As you research, use reliable sources such as academic journals, reputable websites, and expert opinions to ensure the accuracy and credibility of your information. Take notes and organize your findings in a way that makes sense for your speech’s structure.

Structuring Your Speech

A typical informative speech structure includes three main parts, namely, an introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction should grab the audience’s attention, establish your credibility , and preview the main points you’ll cover.

The body of your speech is where you’ll present your main points and supporting evidence. Use clear transitions between each point to maintain a logical flow. The conclusion should summarize your key takeaways and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Outlining Your Speech

Creating an outline is a crucial step in organizing your thoughts and ensuring a coherent flow of information. Start by listing your main points and then add subpoints and supporting details for each section.

A well-structured outline will serve as a roadmap for your speech, keeping you on track and helping you stay focused on your key messages. It also makes the writing process more efficient and less overwhelming.

Writing Your Draft

With your outline in hand, it’s time to start writing your draft. Focus on presenting information clearly and concisely, using simple language and avoiding jargon. Provide examples and analogies throughout your informative speech in order to illustrate complex ideas and make them more relatable to your audience.

As you write, keep your audience in mind and tailor your language and examples to their level of understanding. Use transitions to link your ideas and maintain a smooth flow throughout the speech.

Editing and Revising

Once you’ve completed your draft, take the time to edit and revise your speech. First, check for clarity, accuracy, and logical organization. Then, eliminate unnecessary details, repetition, and filler words.

Read your speech aloud to identify any awkward phrasing or unclear passages. Lastly, seek feedback from others and be open to making changes based on their suggestions. Remember, the goal is to create a polished and effective informative speech.

Delivering an Informative Speech

You’ve written a fantastic informative speech, but now comes the real challenge: delivering it effectively. The way you present your speech can make all the difference in engaging your audience and ensuring they retain the information you’re sharing.

Practicing Your Speech

Practice makes perfect, and this couldn’t be more true when it comes to public speaking . Rehearse your speech multiple times to build confidence and familiarity with the content. Practice in front of a mirror, family members, or friends to get comfortable with your delivery.

As you practice, focus on your pacing, intonation, and body language. Aim for a conversational tone and maintain eye contact with your audience. The more you practice, the more natural and engaging your delivery will become.

Using Visual Aids

Visual aids such as slides, charts, or props can enhance your informative speech by making complex information more accessible and engaging. When utilized in your informative speech, they can help illustrate key points, provide visual examples, and break up the monotony of a purely verbal presentation.

Of course, it’s important to ensure your visuals are clear, relevant, and easy to understand. Otherwise, they may end up obscuring your points instead of clarifying them. In light of this, avoid cluttering your slides with too much text or overwhelming your audience with too many visuals. Use them strategically to support your message, not distract from it.

Engaging Your Audience

Engaging your audience is crucial for a successful informative speech. Use rhetorical questions, anecdotes, or interactive elements to keep them involved and attentive. Encourage participation, if appropriate, and maintain a conversational tone to create a connection with your listeners.

Pay attention to your audience’s reactions and adapt your delivery accordingly. If you sense confusion or disinterest, try rephrasing your points or providing additional examples to clarify your message. Remember, your goal is to educate and inspire your audience, so keep them at the forefront of your mind throughout your speech.

Handling Nerves

It’s normal to feel nervous before and during a speech, but there are strategies to help you manage those nerves . Take deep breaths, visualize success, and focus on your message rather than your anxiety. Remember, your audience wants you to succeed, and a little nervousness can actually enhance your performance by showing enthusiasm and authenticity.

If you find yourself getting overwhelmed, take a moment to pause, collect your thoughts, and regain your composure. Smile, make eye contact, and remind yourself that you’ve prepared thoroughly and have valuable information to share.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To deliver an effective informative speech, it’s important to be aware of common pitfalls and mistakes. One of the biggest errors is overloading your audience with too much information. Remember, less is often more when it comes to public speaking.

Another mistake is failing to organize your content logically or using complex jargon without explanation. Make sure your speech has a clear structure and that you’re explaining any technical terms or concepts in a way that your audience can understand.

Finally, don’t neglect the importance of practice and preparation. Winging it or relying too heavily on notes can lead to a disjointed and unengaging speech. Take the time to rehearse, refine your delivery, and internalize your key points.

By avoiding these common mistakes and focusing on the strategies we’ve discussed, you’ll be well on your way to delivering an informative speech that educates, engages, and inspires your audience.

Tips for Delivering a Compelling Informative Speech

Once you’ve chosen your topic and done your research, it’s time to focus on delivering a compelling speech. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Start with a strong attention-grabbing opening that draws your audience in and sets the tone for your speech.
• Use clear, concise language and avoid jargon or technical terms that your audience may not understand.
• Incorporate storytelling, examples, and anecdotes to make your points more relatable and memorable.
• Use visual aids , such as slides or props, to enhance your message and keep your audience engaged.
• Practice your delivery and timing to ensure that you stay within your allotted time and maintain a natural, conversational tone.

By following these tips and choosing a topic that you’re passionate about, you’ll be well on your way to delivering an informative speech that educates and inspires your audience.

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20 Bonus Topics for Informative Speeches

In case the informative speech examples above didn’t pique your interest, we have several more for you to consider. Ranging from topics like science and technology to history and education, these 20 topics are perfect for your next presentation.

• The history and development of virtual reality technology
• The benefits and challenges of remote work
• The science behind the formation of hurricanes and tornadoes
• The impact of social media on political campaigns and elections
• The importance of sustainable fashion and its environmental benefits
• The role of emotional support animals in mental health treatment
• The history and cultural significance of a specific cuisine or dish
• The impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems
• The benefits and risks of gene editing technology
• The psychology behind conspiracy theories and their spread online
• The importance of digital privacy and data security in the modern age
• The role of music therapy in healthcare and wellness
• The impact of deforestation on biodiversity and climate change
• The history and evolution of a specific sport or athletic event
• The benefits and challenges of alternative education models
• The science behind the human immune system and how vaccines work
• The impact of mass incarceration on communities and families
• The role of storytelling in preserving cultural heritage and traditions
• The importance of financial planning for retirement and old age
• The impact of urban agriculture on food security and community development

Choosing a Topic That Resonates With Your Audience

When selecting a topic for your informative speech, it’s important to consider your audience and what will resonate with them. Think about their interests, backgrounds, and knowledge levels, and choose a topic that will be both informative and engaging.

For example, if you’re speaking to a group of high school students, you may want to choose a topic that relates to their experiences or concerns, such as the impact of social media on mental health or the importance of financial literacy for young adults. If you’re speaking to a group of business professionals, you may want to focus on topics related to industry trends, leadership strategies, or emerging technologies.

By choosing a topic that resonates with your audience, you’ll be more likely to capture their attention and keep them engaged throughout your speech. And remember, even if you’re not an expert on the topic, you can still deliver an informative and engaging speech by doing your research and presenting the information in a clear and accessible way.

FAQs on Informative Speech Examples

What is an example of informative speech.

An example includes breaking down the impacts of climate change, detailing causes, effects, and potential solutions.

What are the 3 types of informative speeches?

The three main types are explanatory (breaks down complex topics), descriptive (paints a picture with words), and demonstrative (shows how to do something).

What are the 5 useful topics of an informative speech?

Top picks include technology advances, mental health awareness, environmental conservation efforts, cultural diversity appreciation, and breakthroughs in medical research.

What is an effective informative speech?

An effective one delivers clear info on a specific topic that educates listeners without overwhelming them. It’s well-researched and engaging.

Informative speech examples are everywhere, if you know where to look. From TED Talks to classroom lectures, there’s no shortage of inspiration for your next presentation. All you have to do is find a topic that lights your fire while engaging your audience.

Remember, a great informative speech is all about clarity, organization, and engagement. By following the tips and examples we’ve covered, you’ll be well on your way to delivering an informative speech that educates, enlightens, and leaves a lasting impression. So go ahead, pick your topic, and start crafting your own informative speech today!

• Last Updated: May 9, 2024

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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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Informative speech examples

4 types of informative speeches: topics and outlines

By:  Susan Dugdale  | Last modified: 08-05-2023

The primary purpose of an informative speech is to share useful and interesting, factual, and accurate information with the audience on a particular topic (issue), or subject.

Find out more about how to do that effectively here. 

What's on this page

The four different types of informative speeches, each with specific topic suggestions and an example informative speech outline: 

• description
• demonstration
• explanation

What is informative speech?

• The 7 key characteristics of an informative speech

We all speak to share information. We communicate knowledge of infinite variety all day, every day, in multiple settings.

Teachers in classrooms world-wide share information with their students.

Call centers problem solve for their callers.

News outlets (on and offline) issue reports on local, national and international events and issues, people of interest, weather, traffic flow around cities...

Health care professionals explain the treatment of addictive behaviors, the many impacts of long Covid, the development of new treatments...

Specialist research scientists share their findings with colleagues at conferences.

A pastry chef demonstrates how to make perfect classic croissants.

The range of informative public speaking is vast!  Some of us do it well. Some of us not so well - largely because we don't fully understand what's needed to present what we're sharing effectively. 

Return to Top

The key characteristics of an informative speech

So, what are the key characteristics or essential elements, of this type of speech? There are seven.

1. Objectivity

The information you give is factual, neutral and objective. You make no attempt to persuade or push (advocate) a particular viewpoint.

Your personal opinions: feelings thoughts, or concerns about the topic you're presenting are not given. This is not a persuasive speech.

As an example,  here's an excerpt from a Statistics Department report on teenage births in New Zealand - the country I live in.

Although it's a potentially a firecracker subject: one arousing all sorts of emotional responses from outright condemnation of the girls and their babies to compassionate practical support, the article sticks to the facts. 

The headline reads: "Teenage births halved over last decade"

"The number of teenage women in New Zealand giving birth has more than halved over the last decade, Stats NZ said today.

There were 1,719 births registered to teenage women (those aged under 20 years) in 2022, accounting for around 1 in every 34 births that year. In 2012, there were 3,786 births registered to teenage mothers, accounting for around 1 in every 16 births that year."

For more see: Statistics Department NZ - Teenage births halved over last decade 

You present your information clearly and concisely, avoiding jargon or complex language that may confuse your audience.

The candidate gave a rousing stump speech , which included a couple of potentially inflammatory statements on known wedge issues .

If the audience is familiar with political jargon that sentence would be fine. If they're not, it would bewilder them. What is a 'stump speech' or a 'wedge issue' ?

Stump speech: a candidate's prepared speech or pitch that explains their core platform.

Wedge issue: a controversial political issue that divides members of opposing political parties or the same party.

For more see: political jargon examples

3. Relevance

The content shared in your speech should be relevant and valuable. It should meet your audience's needs or spark their curiosity.

If the audience members are vegetarians, they're highly unlikely to want to know anything about the varying cuts of beef and what they are used for.

However, the same audience might be very interested in finding out more about plant protein and readily available sources of it.  

4. Organizational pattern

The speech should have a logical sequential structure with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.

If I am giving a demonstration speech on how to bake chocolate chip cookies, to be effective it needs to move through each of the necessary steps in the correct order.

Beginning with how to spoon the mixture on to the tray, or how to cool the cookies on a wire rack when you've taken them out of the oven, is confusing.   

5. Research and credibility

Informative speeches are based on thorough research and reliable sources to ensure accuracy and credibility. And sources need to be properly cited.

My friend told me, my mother says, or I saw it on Face Book is neither authoritative nor enough. ☺

Example: My speech is on literacy rates in USA. To be credible I need to quote and cite reputable sources.

• https://www.apmresearchlab.org/10x-adult-literacy
• https://www.thinkimpact.com/literacy-statistics/

6. Visual aids

Slides, charts, graphs, or props are frequently used to help the audience fully understand what they're being told.

For example, an informative speech on the rise and fall of a currency's daily exchange rate is made a great deal easier to follow and understand with graphs or charts illustrating the key points.

Or for a biographical speech, photos of the person being talked about will help hold the attention of your audience.  

7. Effective delivery

To be effective your speech needs to be delivered in a way that captures and hold the audience's attention. That means all aspects of it have been rehearsed or practiced. 

If you're demonstrating, you've gone through every step to ensure you have the flow of material right.

If you're using props (visual aids) of any sort you've made sure they work. Can they be seen easily? Do they clearly illustrate the point you're making?

Is your use of the stage (or your speaking space) good? Does your body language align with your material? Can your voice be heard? Are you speaking clearly? 

Pulling together a script and the props you're going to use is only part of the task of giving a speech. Working on and refining delivery completes it.

To give a successful speech each of these seven aspects needs to be fine-tuned: to hook your audience's interest, to match their knowledge level, your topic, your speech purpose and, fit within the time constraints you've been given.

Types of informative speeches

There are four types of informative speeches: definition, description, explanation and demonstration. A speech may use one, or a mix of them.

1. Informing through definition 

An informative speech based on definition clearly, and concisely, explains a concept * , theory, or philosophy. The principal purpose is to inform the audience, so they understand the main aspects of the particular subject being talked about.

* Definition of concept from the Cambridge dictionary - an  abstract principle or idea 

Examples of topics for definition or concept speeches

A good topic could be:

• What is global warming?
• What are organics?
• What are the core beliefs of Christianity?
• What is loyalty?
• What is mental health?
• What is modern art? 
• What is freedom?
• What is beauty?
• What is education?
• What are economics?
• What is popular culture?

These are very broad topic areas- each containing multiple subtopics, any of which could become the subject of a speech in its own right. 

Example outline for a definition or concept informative speech

Speech title:.

What is modern art?

- people who want an introductory overview of modern art to help them understand a little more about what they're looking at - to place artists and their work in context 

Specific purpose:

- to provide a broad outline/definition of modern art 

Modern art refers to a broad and diverse artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and continued to develop throughout the 20th century. 

It is characterized by a radical departure from traditional artistic styles and conventions and encompasses a wide range of artistic styles, techniques, and media, reflecting the cultural, social, and technological changes of the time.

Key characteristics or main points include:

• Experimentation and innovation : Modern artists sought to break away from established norms and explore new ways of representing the world. They experimented with different materials, techniques, and subjects, challenging the boundaries of traditional art forms.
• Abstraction : Modern art often features abstract and non-representational elements, moving away from realistic depictions. Artists like Wassily Kandinsky and Piet Mondrian explored pure abstraction, using shapes, lines, and colors to convey emotions and ideas.
• Expression of the inner self : Many modern artists aimed to convey their inner emotions, thoughts, and experiences through their work. This led to the development of various movements like Expressionism (See work of Evard Munch) and Surrealism (See work of Salvador Dali). 
• Rejection of academic conventions : Artists sought to break free from the rigid rules of academic art and embrace more individualistic and avant-garde approaches. For example: Claude Monet, (1840 -1926) Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Édouard Manet
• Influence of industrialization and urbanization : The rapid changes brought about by industrialization and urbanization in the 19th and 20th centuries influenced modern art. Artists were inspired by the dynamics of the modern world and its impact, often negative, on human life. 
• Multiple art movements : Modern art encompasses a wide array of movements and styles, for example Cubism, Futurism, Dadaism, Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art... Each movement brought its own unique perspective on art and society.
• Focus on concept and process : Modern artists began to emphasize the underlying ideas and concepts behind their work, giving greater importance to the creative process itself. 

Modern art should not be confused with contemporary art. While modern art refers specifically to the artistic developments of the early to mid-20th century, contemporary art encompasses art created by artists living and working in the present day. The transition from modern art to contemporary art happened around the late 20th century- 1950s onward.

References:

• mymodernmet.com/abstract artists
• differencess.com/expressionism vs surrealism
• lorimcnee.com/artists who died without recognition
• industrial revolution the influence on art
• mymodernmet.com/important art movements
• theartstory.org/conceptual-art
• Image: The Scream, Edvard Munch  

2. Informing through description

Informing through description means creating detailed, vivid verbal pictures for your audience to make what you're talking about come to life in the minds of those listening which in turn, will make your subject matter memorable.

Examples of good informative speech topics that could be used for descriptive speeches

• How I celebrate Christmas
• My first day at school
• My home town
• A time I feared for my life
• A time when I felt contented and happy

My first car

• An object I find fascinating: lotus shoes, bustles, corsets, panniers (These are historical items of women's clothing.)
• Working from home: the joys, the hazards
• My dream home, job, or holiday
• An event I'll never forget
• The most valuable or interesting thing I own
• Martin Luther King, Benjamin Franklin, President Lincoln... a notable person from the past or present, including someone you may know: a family member, friend or yourself, or a public figure (an artist, singer, dancer, writer, entrepreneur, inventor...)

Example outline for a descriptive informative speech

- to take the audience with me back to the time when we bought our first car and have them appreciate that car's impact on our lives 

Central idea:

Our Austin A50 was a much-loved car

About the car:

- English, Austin A50, 1950ish model - curvy, solid, a matron of cars

Background to purchase:

• 1974 - we were 20 and 21 - young and broke
• The car cost $200 - a lot of money for me at that time. I raided my piggy bank to buy it.
• It was a trade up from the back of the motorbike - now I could sit side by side and talk, rather than sit behind and poke my husband, when I wanted to say important things like, 'Slow down', or 'I'm cold'. The romance of a motorbike is short-lived in winter. It diminishes in direct proportion to the mountain of clothes needing to be put on before going anywhere - coats, scarf, boots, helmet... And this particular winter was bitter: characterized by almost impenetrable grey fog and heavy frosts. It was so cold the insides of windows of the old house we lived in iced up.
• It was tri-colored - none of them dominating - bright orange on the bonnet, sky blue on the rear doors and the roof, and matt black on the front doors and the boot. (Bonus - no one would ever steal it - far too easily identified!)
• The chrome flying A proudly rode the bonnet.
• The boot, (trunk lid) was detachable. It came off - why I can't remember. But it needed to be opened to fill the tank, so it meant lifting it off at the petrol station and leaning it up against the boot while the tank filled, and then replacing it when done.
• There were bench seats upholstered in grey leather (dry and cracked) front and back with wide arm rests that folded down.
• The windows wound up and down manually and, in the rear, there were triangle shaped opening quarter-windows.
• The mouse-colored lining that had been on the doors and roof was worn, torn and in some patches completely missing. Dust poured in through the crevices when we drove on the metal roads that were common where we lived.
• It had a column gear change - 4 gears, a heater that didn't function, proper old-school semaphore trafficators indicators that flicked out from the top of the door pillars and blinked orange, a clutch that needed a strong push to get it down, an accelerator pedal that was slow to pick up and a top speed of around 50 mph. 

Impact/benefits:

We called her Prudence. We loved, and remember, her fondly because:

• I was taught to drive in her - an unforgettable experience. I won the bunny hopping record learning to coordinate releasing the clutch and pressing down on the accelerator. Additionally, on metal roads, I found you needed to slow before taking corners. Sliding on two wheels felt precarious. The bump back down to four was a relief.  
• We did not arrive places having to disrobe - take off layers of protective clobber.
• We could talk to each without shouting and NOW our road trips had a soundtrack - a large black portable battery driven tape player sat on the back parcel shelf blasting out a curious mix of Ry Cooder, Bach, Mozart's Flute Concerto, Janice Joplin... His choice. My choice. Bliss.
• My father-in-law suggested we park it down the street rather than directly outside his house when we visited. To him Prudence was one eccentricity too many! An embarrassment in front of the neighbors. ☺
• austinmemories.com/styled-33/styled-39/index.html
• wikipedia.org/Austin_Cambridge
• archive.org/1956-advertisement-for-austin-a-50

3. Informing through demonstration

Informing through demonstration means sharing verbal directions about how to do a specific task: fix, or make, something while also physically showing the steps, in a specific chronological order.

These are the classic 'show-n-tell', 'how to' or process speeches.

Examples of process speech topics:

• How to bake chocolate chip cookies
• How to use CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) correctly
• How to prepare and plant a tub of vegetables or flowers
• How to read a topographic map
• How to make a tik-tok reel
• How to knit a hat

How to brainstorm material for a speech

For literally  100s more demonstration topic ideas

A demonstrative informative speech outline example

To demonstrate the brainstorming process and to provide practical strategies (helpful tips) for freeing and speeding up the generation of ideas

Main ideas:

Understanding brainstorming - explanation of what brainstorming is and its benefits

Preparing for brainstorming - the starting point - stating the problem or topic that needs brainstorming, working in a comfortable place free from distractions, encouraging open-mindedness and suspension of judgment.

Techniques for brainstorming : (Show and tell on either white board or with large sheets of paper that everyone can see) mind mapping, and free writing. Take topic ideas from audience to use.

Example : notes for maid of honor speech for sister

Benefits : Demonstrate how mind maps can help visually organize thoughts and connections, how free writing allows ideas to flow without stopping to judge them

Encourages quantity over quality - lots of ideas - more to choose from. May generate something you'd never have thought of otherwise.

Select, refine, develop (show and tell) 

For more see: brainstorm examples

4. Informing through explanation 

Informing through explanation is explaining or sharing how something works, came to be, or why something happened, for example historical events like the Civil War in the United States. The speech is made stronger through the use of visuals - images, charts of data and/or statistics.

Examples of explanatory informative speech topics

• How did the 1919 Treaty of Versailles contribute to the outbreak of World War Two?
• What led to The American Civil War (April 12, 1861 – May 26, 1865)?
• Why is there an increase in type two diabetes and problems associated with obesity in first world countries, for example, in UK and USA?
• How do lungs work?
• What causes heart disease?
• How electric vehicles work?   
• What caused the Salem witch trials?
• How does gravitation work?
• How are rainbows formed?
• Why do we pay taxes?
• What is cyberbullying? Why is it increasing?

Example explanatory informative speech outline

The Treaty of Versailles: how did it contribute to the outbreak of World War Two

- to explain how the Treaty of Versailles (1919) was a significant causal factor leading up World War two

Central ideas:

Historical context : World War One, 'the war to end all wars' ended in 1918. The Allied Powers: USA, UK, France, Italy and Japan, met in Paris at the Paris Peace Conference 1919 to work out the details and consequences of the Treaty of Versailles, which would impact the defeated Central Powers, principally Germany. 

These included:

• territorial boundary changes which stripped Germany of land in Europe, and established new nations - e.g. Poland and Czechoslovakia
• military restrictions - the disarmament of the German military, restrictions on weapons and technology, demilitarization of the Rhineland
• reparations - demands that they were unable to meet, plus being forced to accept a "war guilt" clause (Article 231) had an enormous impact, economically and psychologically. The country plunged into deep recession - albeit along with many other countries. (The Great Depression 1929-1939 which ended with the beginning of World War Two.)

The League of Nations - The League of Nations was an international diplomatic group developed after World War I as a way to solve disputes between countries before they erupted into open warfare. Despite being active in its set up, USA refused to join it - a stance that weakened its effectiveness.

Controversies within Germany: Public anger and resentment, plus political instability as result of reparations, territory loss and economic hardships

Controversies with Treaty partners: The Treaty's perceived fairness and effectiveness: Italy and Japan felt their settlements were inadequate compared to what had been taken by UK, USA and France.

The rise of 'isms'   Simmering discontent eventually emerged as the rise of Fascism in Italy, Nazism in Germany and Statism (a mix of nationalism, militarism and “state capitalism”) in Japan.

Expansionist Nationalism Spread of expansionist nationalism - a state's right to increase its borders because it is superior in all ways. Therefore, Hitler was 'right' to take back what had previously been regarded as German territory (Czechoslovakia and Austria), and to go after more, all the while goading the Allied Powers to act. When his armies went into Poland, Britain declared war against Germany - 21 years after the end of the last.

• history.com/treaty-of-versailles-world-war-ii-guilt-effects
• tinyurl.com/Treaty-of-Versailles
• Image:  tinyurl.com/signing-Treaty-of-Versailles

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Informative Speech

Informative speech generator.

As a speaker, you’re given a special role. You’ve been given the power for your voice to be heard. For those who deliver an informative speech, this role can come as a challenge. Not only do you have to write a speech , but you also need to deliver it well. Of course, there’s also the challenge of making your speech interesting enough to capture the attention of your audience.

What Is an Informative Speech? An informative speech is a type of speech designed to educate the audience on a particular topic. It aims to provide interesting and useful information, ensuring the audience gains new knowledge or insights. Unlike persuasive speeches that seek to convince the audience of a particular viewpoint, informative speeches focus on explaining a subject matter clearly and objectively, without trying to influence the audience’s opinions or beliefs.

Download Informative Speech Bundle

An informative speech must be made memorable for it to be effective. Check out these examples and outlines of speeches that have tried to do just that. If they succeeded or failed, you’ll be the judge of that. Take what works and replicate it in your own speech drafts.

Informative Speech Format

Introduction.

Attention Getter : Start with a hook to grab the audience’s attention. This could be a surprising fact, an intriguing question, or a relevant story. Purpose Statement : Clearly state the purpose of your speech. This tells the audience exactly what they will learn. Preview : Briefly outline the main points you will cover. This gives the audience a roadmap of your speech.

First Main Point : Introduce your first key point. Support this point with evidence, such as data, examples, or expert quotes. Explain how this information is relevant to your topic. Second Main Point : Follow the same format as the first point, presenting new information and supporting evidence. Third Main Point : Continue with the format, ensuring each point is distinct and contributes to your overall topic. Remember to transition smoothly between points to maintain the flow of your speech.

Summary : Briefly recap the main points you’ve covered. This reinforces the information for the audience. Closing Statement : Conclude with a strong closing statement. You can reiterate the importance of the topic, share a concluding thought, or call to action if relevant.

Example of Informative Speech

The Impact of Technology on Society Good morning, everyone. Today, I am excited to delve into a topic that affects us all profoundly: the impact of technology on society. From the way we communicate to how we work and learn, technology has transformed every facet of our lives. But what does this mean for us as a society? Let’s explore this together. Imagine a world without smartphones, social media, or the internet. It’s hard, isn’t it? These technologies have become so integral to our daily lives that living without them seems almost unthinkable. My aim today is to shed light on both the positive and negative effects of technological advancements on our societal structures, behaviors, and relationships. We will explore three main areas: communication, privacy, and education. Technology has revolutionized the way we communicate. Social media platforms have made it easier than ever to stay connected with loved ones around the globe. While this keeps relationships alive across distances, it also raises questions about the depth and quality of these connections. The digital age has brought about significant concerns regarding privacy. Personal information is often collected by companies for targeted advertising, sometimes without explicit consent. This practice has led to a global conversation about the rights to privacy and the need for stricter regulations to protect personal information. Technology has transformed the educational landscape. Online learning platforms and digital textbooks make education more accessible than ever. However, this shift also presents challenges, such as the digital divide, where not all students have equal access to technology. In conclusion, technology’s impact on society is multifaceted, influencing our communication, privacy, and education. While it offers unprecedented opportunities for growth and connectivity, it also presents significant challenges that we must address. As we navigate this digital age, let us embrace the benefits of technology while also being mindful of its implications. By doing so, we can ensure that technological advancements serve to enhance, rather than diminish, the quality of our societal fabric. Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to any questions you might have.

Good Topics for Informative Speech with Samples

• Cli mate Change : Discuss the causes, effects, and solutions related to climate change.
• Artificial Intelligence : Explore the impact of AI on various industries and daily life.
• Space Exploration : Cover recent advancements in space exploration and missions to other planets.
• Cybersecurity : Explain the importance of cybersecurity and how individuals can protect their online privacy.
• Mental Health Awareness : Discuss common mental health issues and strategies for maintaining mental well-being.
• History of a Notable Figure : Present a biography of a historical figure and their contributions.
• Healthy Eating Habits : Share tips for maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle.
• Renewable Energy Sources : Explain different types of renewable energy and their benefits.
• The Impact of Social Media : Discuss the positive and negative effects of social media on society.
• The Importance of Education : Explain the significance of education in personal and societal development.
• Cultural Diversity : Explore the value of cultural diversity and its impact on societies.
• Medical Breakthroughs : Highlight recent advancements in medical science and healthcare.
• Effective Time Management : Provide strategies for better time management and productivity.
• The History of a Local Landmark : Share the history and significance of a well-known local landmark.
• The Power of Positive Thinking : Discuss the benefits of a positive mindset and its impact on success.
• Economic Trends : Explain current economic trends and their implications for businesses and individuals.
• Animal Conservation : Discuss endangered species and efforts to protect them.
• The Importance of Voting : Explain the significance of participating in the democratic process.
• DIY Home Improvement : Offer tips and tricks for various home improvement projects.
• The Art of Public Speaking : Provide insights into effective public speaking techniques.

Examples of Informative Speeches

• Technological Advancements in Renewable Energy (Environment)
• The Evolution of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare (Technology)
• The Influence of Cryptocurrency on Global Finance (Economics)
• Conservation Efforts for Endangered Species (Ecology)
• The History and Cultural Impact of Hip Hop Music (Culture)
• The Rise of Electric Vehicles in Modern Transportation (Technology)
• Understanding the Global Water Crisis (Environmental Science)
• The Psychological Effects of Social Media on Teenagers (Psychology)
• The Development of Quantum Computing (Computer Science)
• The Role of the United Nations in Promoting Global Peace (International Relations)

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Guidelines for an Effective Informative Speech

Always maintain your focus. It’s easy to swerve lanes with topics that are too broad, as there just too many areas that may be covered. So instead, identify the specific areas that you wish to tackle. You may also see tribute speech examples & samples.

Focus on these areas and provide supporting details for each.

If you wish to paint a mental picture for your audience, make your speech as detailed as possible. You can do so by describing even the tiniest detail of a given subject.

Additionally, consider your audience’s needs when crafting your speech. Make sure that it caters to their knowledge level and group. You need to be accurate, clear, and meaningful in order for your speech writing to be effective enough.

How to Create an Outline for Informative Speech

1. Before you create the actual outline for your speech, you need to decide on your topic of interest. This will help you brainstorm on key points that you would want to emphasize in your speech. You may also like dedication speech examples .

2. Next, it would be necessary to arrange these points in a certain manner. It may be in topical, spatial, or chronological order. This will help you make smooth transitions between different points.

3. Finally, conclude your speech . Since you aren’t meant to provide a call of action for this type of speech, simply summarize the main points.

Remember, your speech outline isn’t your whole speech but it will serve as a draft to guide you with your final speech.

Why Is an Informative Speech Important?

An informative speech is an essential part of learning, especially if you want to share your knowledge on a given matter or even spread awareness to the public. An effective informative speech provides an audience with information that are significant, yet uncommon.

Listeners wouldn’t want to hear about things that they already know, it’s the speaker’s job to expand the knowledge of an audience. At the end of the day, this ideal of educating a public proves to be beneficial for both the speaker and the audience. You may also check out orientation speech examples & samples.

What is Informative Writing Speech?

Informative writing and informative speech both aim to provide valuable information to an audience, but they differ in their presentation formats. Informative writing refers to the act of conveying information through written text, while an informative speech is the oral presentation of information to an audience. Here’s a brief explanation of each:

Informative Writing : Informative writing is a form of writing that is designed to educate or inform readers about a specific topic. It typically presents factual information, explains concepts, or provides an analysis of a subject. Informative writing can take many forms, including essays, articles, reports, research papers, blogs, and more. The primary goal is to convey information clearly and concisely to the reader. It often includes supporting evidence, examples, and details to enhance the reader’s understanding of the topic.

Informative Speech: An informative speech, on the other hand, is an oral presentation delivered to an audience with the purpose of conveying information, facts, or insights about a particular topic. It is a spoken form of communication that allows the speaker to engage with the audience in real-time. An informative speech typically follows a structured format, with an introduction, body, and conclusion. The speaker’s goal is to educate the audience, and the speech may include visual aids or props to enhance comprehension.

Types of Informative Speech

• Descriptive Speeches – These speeches aim to provide a detailed description of a subject, allowing the audience to form a clear mental image.
• Explanatory Speeches – Focused on explaining the reasons behind phenomena or processes, offering a deeper understanding of how and why things happen.
• Demonstrative Speeches – These are how-to speeches that guide the audience through the steps of doing something, emphasizing practical skills and techniques.
• Definition Speeches – Aim to clarify the meaning, background, and context of a particular term or concept, especially complex or abstract ones.
• Informative Report Speeches – Present factual reports on specific events, findings, or research, providing detailed information and analysis.
• Comparative Speeches – Discuss the similarities and differences between two or more entities, offering insights into their unique characteristics and relationships.
• Biographical Speeches – Focus on the life and achievements of a person, providing a detailed account of their contributions, experiences, and legacy.
• Historical Speeches – Offer a detailed examination of past events, including their causes, effects, and significance in history.
• Technical Speeches – Deal with complex technical information, aiming to make specialized knowledge accessible and understandable to the audience.
• Scientific Speeches – Present scientific concepts, discoveries, or research findings, emphasizing the methodology, results, and implications of scientific studies.

What are examples of informative writing?

• News Articles: News reports provide information about current events, often answering the who, what, when, where, and why questions.
• Expository Essays : These essays present information, facts, and explanations about a specific topic or subject.
• Research Papers: Academic papers that provide in-depth information and analysis on a particular subject or research question.
• How-to Guides: Instructions on how to perform a specific task, such as cooking a recipe, assembling furniture, or using software.
• Textbooks: Educational materials that provide information on various subjects, often used in schools and colleges.
• Encyclopedias: Reference books that offer detailed information on a wide range of topics.
• User Manuals: Instruction manuals that explain how to operate and troubleshoot devices, appliances, or software.
• Travel Guides: Publications that provide information about travel destinations, including attractions, accommodations, and local culture.
• Scientific Journals: Articles that report the methods, results, and conclusions of scientific research studies.
• Technical Documents: Documents that explain technical specifications, processes, or procedures in various fields, such as engineering or computer science.
• Historical Accounts: Writings that provide historical facts and analysis of past events, periods, or figures.
• Biographies: Accounts of individuals’ lives that offer information about their personal and professional experiences.
• Health and Wellness Articles: Articles that provide information on various health topics, including medical conditions, nutrition, and fitness.
• Product Reviews: Reviews that give detailed information about the features, performance, and quality of products or services.
• FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions): Lists of questions and answers that provide information about a specific topic or product.
• Documentary Narration: Narration scripts for documentaries that educate viewers on various subjects.
• Lecture Notes: Notes taken during educational lectures that summarize information presented by the lecturer.
• Financial Reports: Documents that present financial information and analysis of a company’s performance.
• Government Publications: Documents released by government agencies that provide information on laws, regulations, policies, and statistics.
• Blogs and Online Articles: Informative content published on blogs or websites covering a wide range of topics, from technology to lifestyle.

How do you write a good informative speech?

• Choose a Topic: Select a topic that interests you and is relevant to your audience. Ensure it’s not too broad or too narrow for the allotted time.
• Research: Gather reliable information from various sources, including books, articles, websites, and expert interviews. Take thorough notes.
• Organize Your Content:  Introduction, Body, Conclusion
• Engage Your Audience:  Use stories, anecdotes, or real-life examples to make your speech relatable.
• Practice: Rehearse your speech multiple times to become comfortable with the content and timing. Practice your delivery, tone, and gestures.
• Timing: Stay within the allotted time. Being too brief or too long can diminish the impact of your speech.
• Feedback: Seek feedback from others to improve your speech’s clarity and effectiveness.
• Delivery: When delivering the speech, maintain good eye contact with the audience, use a clear and audible voice, and control your body language.
• Q&A Session: If appropriate, be prepared for a question-and-answer session following your speech. Anticipate potential questions related to your topic.

What does a good informative speech look like?

• Clear Structure: It follows a clear and logical structure, typically consisting of an introduction, body with main points, and a conclusion. The main points are well-organized and flow seamlessly.
• Engaging Introduction: It begins with an attention-grabbing introduction, which may include a compelling anecdote, quote, rhetorical question, or startling fact. The introduction also introduces the topic and states the purpose or thesis of the speech.
• Thorough Research: It is well-researched, presenting accurate and reliable information from credible sources. The information is presented in a clear and organized manner.
• Well-Defined Main Points: The main points are distinct, well-defined, and supported with relevant evidence, examples, statistics, or anecdotes.
• Effective Transitions: The speech includes smooth transitions between main points, ensuring that the audience can follow the progression of ideas easily.
• Engagement: It engages the audience through effective storytelling, relatable examples, and a conversational tone.
• Clarity and Simplicity: It uses clear and concise language to convey complex concepts, making it understandable to a diverse audience.
• Audience Focus: The speech is tailored to the needs and interests of the audience. The speaker considers the prior knowledge and expectations of the listeners.
• Audience Interaction (if appropriate): It incorporates opportunities for the audience to engage, such as asking questions, participating in polls, or sharing their thoughts.

How do you start an informative speech?

1. Select a Clear and Engaging Opening:

Begin with an attention-grabbing opening that piques the audience’s interest. You can use a surprising fact, a rhetorical question, a relevant quote, a brief anecdote, or a compelling story. This opening should relate to your topic and set the stage for what’s to come.

2. Introduce Yourself:

After your opening, briefly introduce yourself. Share your name and any relevant qualifications or expertise that establish your credibility on the topic.

3. State the Topic and Purpose:

Clearly state the topic of your speech and its purpose. In one or two sentences, explain what you’ll be discussing and why it’s important or relevant.

4. Provide an Overview:

Offer a brief preview of the main points or subtopics you’ll cover in your speech. This gives the audience a roadmap of what to expect.

5. Establish a Connection:

Establish a connection with the audience by demonstrating the relevance of the topic to their lives or interests. Explain why they should care about the information you’re going to present.

6. Set the Tone:

Consider the tone of your speech. Depending on your topic, you may want to set a serious, informative, motivational, or humorous tone. Ensure that the tone aligns with the subject matter and the audience’s expectations.

7. Engage the Audience:

Encourage audience engagement by asking a rhetorical question or by posing a question that you’ll answer later in your speech. This can pique their curiosity and involve them from the beginning.

8. Transition to the Body:

Conclude your introduction with a smooth transition to the main body of your speech. This transition should connect the opening to the content that follows.

What not to do in an informative speech?

In an informative speech, avoid vague or biased information, complex jargon, excessive detail, disrespect, and lack of organization. Maintain clarity, engage the audience, and stay focused on the topic.

How do you write a hook for an informative speech?

To create an engaging hook for an informative speech, use a startling fact, anecdote, question, quote, or humor that captivates the audience’s interest and introduces your topic effectively.

What is an informative speech for kids?

An informative speech for kids is a presentation designed to educate young audiences about a specific topic in a simple, engaging, and age-appropriate manner, promoting understanding and learning.

Mastering the art of informative speeches is pivotal for effective communication in various settings. These speeches play a key role in educating and enlightening audiences on diverse topics, emphasizing the importance of clarity, engagement, and factual accuracy. The speaker’s ability to present information in an interesting and accessible manner can significantly enhance the audience’s understanding and retention of the subject matter.

For a deeper understanding of informative speeches, including their structure and purpose, explore the resources at Southwest Tennessee Community College’s guide on Competent Communication . Additionally, Modesto Junior College Library offers a comprehensive guide on writing and delivering informative speeches , which can be an invaluable resource for anyone looking to improve their speech-making skills.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Develop an informative speech on the history of the school's founding

Compose an informative speech about the benefits of a balanced diet for students.

Informative Business Speech Example

How to Create an Outline for Informative Speech

Student Informative Speech Example

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How to Write an Informative Speech

Last Updated: August 20, 2024 References

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 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 1,399,335 times.

An informative speech tells an audience about a process, event, or concept. Whether you’re explaining how to grow a garden or describing a historical event, writing an informative speech is pretty straightforward. Knowing the topic inside and out is key, so start by conducting thorough research. Organize your speech logically so your audience can easily follow, and keep your language clear. Since speeches are recited out loud, be sure to set aside time after writing to perfect your delivery.

Researching the Topic

• Suppose your prompt instructs you to inform the audience about a hobby or activity. Make a list of your clubs, sports, and other activities, and choose the one that interests you most. Then zoom in on one particular aspect or process to focus on in your speech.
• For instance, if you like tennis, you can’t discuss every aspect of the sport in a single speech. Instead, you could focus on a specific technique, like serving the ball.

• For example, if your speech is about a historical event, find primary sources, like letters or newspaper articles published at the time of the event. Additionally, include secondary sources, such as scholarly articles written by experts on the event.
• If you’re informing the audience about a medical condition, find information in medical encyclopedias, scientific journals, and government health websites.

Tip: Organize your sources in a works cited page. Even if the assignment doesn’t require a works cited page, it’ll help you keep track of your sources. [3] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source

• For instance, if your speech is on growing plants from seeds, explain the process step-by-step to a friend or relative. Ask them if any parts in your explanation seemed muddy or vague.
• Break down the material into simple terms, especially if you’re addressing a non-expert audience. Think about how you’d describe the topic to a grandparent or younger sibling. If you can’t avoid using jargon, be sure to define technical words in clear, simple terms.

• For example, if your speech is on the poet Charles Baudelaire, a strong thesis would be, “I am here to explain how city life and exotic travel shaped the key poetic themes of Charles Baudelaire’s work.”
• While the goal of an informative speech isn't to make a defensible claim, your thesis still needs to be specific. For instance, “I’m going to talk about carburetors” is vague. “My purpose today is to explain how to take apart a variable choke carburetor” is more specific.

• For instance, a speech meant to persuade an audience to support a political stance would most likely include examples of pathos, or persuasive devices that appeal to the audience's emotions.
• On the other hand, an informative speech on how to grow pitcher plants would present clear, objective steps. It wouldn't try to argue that growing pitcher plants is great or persuade listeners to grow pitcher plants.

Drafting Your Speech

• Delivering memorized remarks instead of reading verbatim is more engaging. A section of a speaking outline would look like this: III. YMCA’s Focus on Healthy Living  A. Commitment to overall health: both body and mind  B. Programs that support commitment   1. Annual Kid’s Day   2. Fitness facilities   3. Classes and group activities

• For example, you could begin with, “Have you ever wondered how a figure skater could possibly jump, twist, and land on the thin blade of an ice skate? From proper technique to the physical forces at play, I’ll explain how world-class skaters achieve jaw-dropping jumps and spins.”
• Once you've established your purpose, preview your speech: “After describing the basic technical aspects of jumping, I’ll discuss the physics behind jumps and spins. Finally, I’ll explain the 6 types of jumps and clarify why some are more difficult than others.”
• Some people prefer to write the speech's body before the introduction. For others, writing the intro first helps them figure out how to organize the rest of the speech.

• For instance, if your speech is about the causes of World War I, start by discussing nationalism in the years prior to the war. Next, describe the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand, then explain how alliances pulled the major players into open warfare.
• Transition smoothly between ideas so your audience can follow your speech. For example, write, “Now that we’ve covered how nationalism set the stage for international conflict, we can examine the event that directly led to the outbreak of World War I: the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. [11] X Research source

• For instance, your conclusion could point out, “Examining the factors that set the stage for World War I shows how intense nationalism fueled the conflict. A century after the Great War, the struggle between nationalism and globalism continues to define international politics in the twenty-first century.”

• Typically, speeches aren’t read verbatim. Instead, you’ll memorize the speech and use a bare bones outline to stay on track.

Avoid information overload: When you compose your speech, read out loud as you write. Focus on keeping your sentence structures simple and clear. Your audience will have a hard time following along if your language is too complicated. [14] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source

Perfecting Your Delivery

• While it’s generally okay to use slightly different phrasing, try to stick to your complete outline as best you can. If you veer off too much or insert too many additional words, you could end up exceeding your time limit.
• Keep in mind your speaking outline will help you stay focused. As for quotes and statistics, feel free to write them on your notecards for quick reference.

Memorization tip: Break up the speech into smaller parts, and memorize it section by section. Memorize 1 sentence then, when you feel confident, add the next. Continue practicing with gradually longer passages until you know the speech like the back of your hand.

• Instead of slouching, stand up tall with your shoulders back. In addition to projecting confidence, good posture will help you breathe deeply to support your voice.

• Have them point out any spots that dragged or seemed disorganized. Ask if your tone was engaging, if you used body language effectively, and if your volume, pitch, and pacing need any tweaks.

• If you keep exceeding the time limit, review your complete sentence outline. Cut any fluff and simplify complicated phrases. If your speech isn’t long enough, look for areas that could use more detail or consider adding another section to the body.
• Just make sure any content you add is relevant. For instance, if your speech on nationalism and World War I is 2 minutes too short, you could add a section about how nationalism manifested in specific countries, including Britain, Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Serbia.

Sample Informative Speeches

Expert Q&A

• You're probably much better at informative speeches than you think! If you have ever told your parents about your day at school or explained to a friend how to make chicken noodle soup, you already have experience giving an informative speech! Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If you get nervous, try to relax, take deep breaths, and visualize calming scenery. Remember, there’s nothing to worry about. Just set yourself up for success by knowing the material and practicing. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• When composing your speech, take your audience into consideration, and tailor your speech to the people you’re addressing. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-realworldcomm/chapter/11-1-informative-speeches/
• ↑ https://2012books.lardbucket.org/books/a-primer-on-communication-studies/s11-01-informative-speeches.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_works_cited_page_basic_format.html
• ↑ https://open.lib.umn.edu/communication/chapter/11-1-informative-speeches/
• ↑ https://www.comm.pitt.edu/informative-speaking
• ↑ https://rasmussen.libanswers.com/faq/337550
• ↑ Lynn Kirkham. Public Speaking Coach. Expert Interview. 20 November 2019.
• ↑ https://www.hamilton.edu/academics/centers/oralcommunication/guides/how-to-outline-a-speech
• ↑ https://wac.colostate.edu/resources/writing/guides/informative-speaking/
• ↑ https://www.comm.pitt.edu/structuring-speech
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/speeches/
• ↑ https://www.speechanddebate.org/wp-content/uploads/High-School-Competition-Events-Guide.pdf
• ↑ https://open.lib.umn.edu/communication/chapter/10-4-physical-delivery/

About This Article

To write an informative speech, start with an introduction that will grab your audience's attention and give them an idea of where the rest of your speech is headed. Next, choose 3 important points that you want to make to form the body of your speech. Then, organize the points in a logical order and write content to address each point. Finally, write a conclusion that summarizes the main points and ends with a message that you want your audience to take away from it. For tips on researching topics for an informative speech, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write an Informative Speech (With Outline and Examples)

Speechwriting can seem like a difficult skill to master. Knowing how to get your point across in a set time limit while engaging an audience feels tricky. But it's not so hard when you've got the right structure with an outline example for an informative speech.

That's why I'll walk you through how to write an informative speech in this tutorial. Once you follow these steps, you'll be able to make a speech that'll leave any crowd more informed on any topic you choose.

Jump to content in this section:

Different Types of Informative Speeches

• Choose Your Topic
• Perform Research
• Define Your Thesis Statement
• Outline Your Speech
• Consider Your Audience
• Write a Draft
• Prepare Your Visual Aid (Optional)
• Rehearse and Rewrite

More Tips for Your Informative Speech

Envato elements: a subscription for unlimited creativity.

Before you can even consider putting pen to paper (or more likely, fingers to keyboard), you must know not all informative speeches are the same. There are a many different types to be aware of. But we'll focus on definition, demonstration, explanatory, and descriptive informative speech styles.

Let's dive into what makes them unique:

• Definition . These speeches aim to define concepts or theories that audiences may not know. Use this type if you've got a new idea or concept your audience is unfamiliar with.
• Demonstration . This speech is all about process. Walk your audience through the steps on how to perform, create, or fix something. Make sure your steps are in order!
• Explanatory . An explanatory speech is about the state of a given topic. This could be the state of a business, country, or sports team. The goal is to show why the chosen topic is in the state that it finds itself.
• Descriptive . This type of speech is all about the details. You'll want to use it when you want to paint a vivid picture about your topic. These speeches tend to be filled with descriptions of physical characteristics, comparisons, and functions as a result.

As you can see, knowing that you want to inform your audience is just a small part of your speech. To make your speech as effective as possible, write with the right type of speech in mind.

1. Choose Your Topic

Before starting your informative speech outline example, you need to know what you're writing about. That's why it's important to pick the right topic. Now, I understand that in some situations where you've got no choice in what you speak about. But if you get to pick yourself, let me give you some pointers.

First, you want to pick something that you're passionate about. It's a lot easier to engage an audience when they can tell that you care about the topic you're speaking about. Think about the types of things you're drawn too and see if there's an opportunity to choose it as your speech topic.

Also ask yourself how much you know about the topic. Even if you're passionate about it, you might not have the facts and figures to draw upon to properly inform a crowd. Consider the time you have available to prepare your speech before you lock in your topic.

But arguably your most important consideration when choosing a topic is your audience. What will be interesting to them? Think about the demographics of who you'll be talking to as you select your topic. We'll talk later about how this will affect your writing.

2. Perform Research

It's hard to write an example of an outline for an informative speech if you're not informed yourself! That's why it's important to do some research. Providing verified sources is one of the best ways to strengthen what you've got to say.

The key word there is verified. Make sure your sources are trustworthy before including them in your speech. Look to reputable journalists, peer-reviewed papers, and accredited universities. Find out who are the leaders in the niche your topic is in and see what they've got to say on the subject.

3. Define Your Thesis Statement

If your speech is our solar system, your thesis statement is the sun everything orbits around. Don't start thinking about other attention getters for informative speeches without your thesis in place.

So, what's a thesis statement? It's a summary of the central point of your whole speech that's part of your introduction. This isn't a long summary either. Your thesis statement shouldn't be longer than a sentence. Sure that's short, but it's plenty opportunity to get the point of your speech across.

A strong thesis is important to have. It gives you a north star to write towards, so you never lose focus of your main point. A focused speech is a strong one that'll engage your audience. 

4.  Outline Your Speech

Now that you've defined your thesis, it's time to structure your speech. And the best way to do that is to create an example of an outline for your informative speech.

Keep in mind that the outline of your informative speech is an overview example. You're not going into full detail of your speech just yet, that'll come in your draft. What you want to do is create the flow you'd like your speech to take. These can be as simple as bullet points.

Start with your introduction, end with your conclusion, and place all the important beats in between. You can even add one or two sentences for each point of your speech. This is the basic structure you should have if you've never made an example of an outline for an informative speech.

5. Consider Your Audience

Playing to your audience is one of the biggest keys to giving a successful speech. As I mentioned earlier, understanding the demographic is important. After all, teenagers and adults have different viewpoints that must be considered.

But that's not the only consideration. Before you start your informative speech outline, think about how knowledgeable your crowd is. A general audience will require you to simplify so that everyone can understand. But if you're speaking to people with technical understanding in your subject, you can dive into the nitty-gritty of your topic.

This is made easier with a strong example of an outline for your informative speech in hand. And so is the next step, which is writing.

6. Write a Draft

It's now time to write your informative speech draft. This is where you bring your topic, research, and audience knowledge to life. So have fun with it! You're the one providing the information, so write with confidence.

As you write, keep your outline example for an informative speech in mind, as well as these points:

Writing Your Introduction

Your introduction might be the most important part of your speech. As they say, you only get one chance at a first impression. So, make yours memorable.

You can do that by starting your informative speech with a line that'll hook your audience. This can be with an intriguing question or concept, an anecdote, or a quote. We've got an incredible tutorial that can give you more information on attention getters for informative speeches.

Once you've nailed your opener, it's time to introduce your thesis statement. As mentioned earlier, your thesis statement is a brief summary of the rest of your speech. Add a transition that allows you to flow into the first key point of your informative speech outline example.

Constructing the Body of Your Speech

Writing the body of your informative speech is a lot easier thanks to your outline. The perfect example is to say it's the GPS for the rest of your speech. How long that journey will be and what twists and turns it'll take all depend on your content.

Even if your body paragraphs have different focuses, there will be similarities in how you present their contents. You'll always want to start by introducing what the key point you're introducing will be. Then dive further into the point and present any facts or figures you found in your research. And, if you've structured your speech well, introduce a transition into the next key point.

Now, notice how I said there will be similarities, and not that your paragraphs will be identical. That's because an identical structure is easy to spot and not very interesting for your audience. Find ways to mix things up in your writing to make sure you're keeping audiences engaged. Take some time to watch some informative speech examples online. Notice that the best ones always find ways to inform without following a strict writing style.

Concluding in Style

All good things must come to an end, and that includes the stellar speech you're writing. So, when it's time to bring it all to a close, do so in a memorable way.

Your conclusion needs a few elements. One of them is a summary of all the topics you've discussed. It's like a brief recap of your key points. Also restate your thesis. Remember, the last time you brought up your thesis statement was in the introduction! It's a good idea to reinforce your main goal before you end. And make sure your end feels like an end. Even if you're informing your audience about ongoing efforts, your speech will need to have a sense of finality.

7. Prepare Your Visual Aid (Optional)

Unlike creating an outline example for your informative speech, this step isn't mandatory. but if you know you'll have a screen at your disposal, take advantage of it. One of the best attention getters for informative speeches is a visual presentation. It's especially helpful when your topic can be easily shown, but it's also helpful for abstract concepts.

A slide deck is easy to create if you use a template. You can find the one that best fits your topic from Envato Elements. The creative service has thousands of presentations with a great offer. But I'll tell you more about that later. For now, check out some of the PowerPoint and Keynote presentation templates you can use to share any visuals you've got for your audience:

8. Rehearse and Rewrite

You've come a long way from selecting your topic and creating the outline for your informative speech. You're just about ready to give your speech, but before you do you've got one last thing to do: practice.

There are a couple ways to practice. You can do it by yourself, with or without the help of a mirror. If you do go this route, make sure you force yourself to fully do your informative speech out loud. It's the best example of what you'll do in front of a crowd. If you've got a willing friend or family member, sit them down and rehearse with them. An outside perspective will give you the best feedback of what you can do to improve your delivery.

If you're speech has a time limit, make sure you time yourself with each run through. Doing this will help you see how close you are to your max allotment. You'll also be able to see whether you're rushing through your speech or speaking a bit too slowly.

Sometimes the words we write don't always translate when speaking out loud. Take this as an opportunity to rewrite when necessary. Make your speech more natural so it's easier for you to get the words out. You might also realize you left out key details you think your audience needs to know.

These steps are always going to be helpful when writing your speech. but I've got a few more tips to keep in mind if you want to take things to the next level:

• Inform, don't persuade . Once you've finished your informative speech outline example and prepare to write, don't forget its goal. You're here to share information. Avoid using words and phrases that may aim to convince. You don't want your audience to leave with the feeling that they've just heard a sales pitch.
• Make everything flow . For effective speeches, you'll hear a lot about storytelling. A story makes sure your audience stays engaged. You don't have to structure your speech like a fairytale. But think about how you'd like each key point and idea to connect with each other. Have this at the front of your mind when putting together your outline example for your informative speech.
• Personal touches are nice . If you had the freedom to pick your topic, you probably picked one that you care about. Don't be afraid to let that show in your speech! If you found a key point to be especially interesting, verbalize it. Audiences engage better with your information if they know you're engaged with it too.
• Interact with your audience . Look to interactivity if you're looking for easy ways to engage your audience. Now, you don't need to invite someone from the crowd to stand next to you while you talk. But you can ask them questions or open the floor so you can answer some yourself. Props, quizzes, or even asking for a show of hands are options at your disposal.
• Use key points for memorization . Remembering everything in your speech can be tricky. But there are some memorization tricks you can use. One of them is to focus memorizing the key points first. This helps you keep the flow of your informative speech in mind. Brenda Barron, an Envato Tuts+ instructor, has even more useful memorization tips that you can check out:

I mentioned earlier how you can get presentation templates from the Envato Elements platform. But that's not all you can get. Envato Elements has a great offer: for a low monthly fee, you get unlimited downloads of everything available on the creative site. You can access and download premium PowerPoint templates, fonts, and photos for no extra fees.

Explore Envato Elements

There are few services with an offer this useful. If you give speeches, are a student, or work as a creative professional, it's a no-brainer. Take advantage of this compelling offer by signing up for Envato Elements today.

You're Ready to Write Your Informative Speech

No matter the niche, you can trust that these steps apply to your speech. Download a template and get started.

We started off by picking a topic and performing research. We then defined a thesis and created an outline of your informative speech example. After thinking about your audience, we wrote a draft, rehearsed, and made our edits.

You've done the work in putting together a well-structured foundation. Now comes the fun part in giving your speech. Good luck!

13.4 Sample Informative Speeches and Speech Outlines

Sample informative speech outline.

By Shannon Stanley

Topic: Lord Byron

Specific Purpose: To inform my audience about the life of George Gordon Byron, Lord Byron.

Central Idea: George Gordon (Lord Byron) overcame physical hardships, was a world-renowned poet, and was an advocate for the Greek’s war for freedom.

Introduction

A. Attention step : Imagine an eleven-year-old boy who has been beaten and sexually abused repeatedly by the very person who is supposed to take care of him. B. Reveal topic/thesis : This is one of the many hurdles that George Gordon, better known as Lord Byron, overcame during his childhood. Lord Byron was also a talented poet with the ability to transform his life into the words of his poetry. Byron became a serious poet by the age of fifteen, and he was first published in 1807 at the age of nineteen. Lord Byron was a staunch believer in freedom and equality, so he gave most of his fortune, and in the end, his very life, supporting the Greek’s war for independence. C. Establish credibility : While many of you have probably never heard of Lord Byron, his life and written work will become more familiar to you when you take Humanities 1201, as I learned when I took it last semester. D. Preview body of speech : In this speech I will talk about Lord Byron’s early childhood, accomplishments, and life outside of poetry

Transition : Let me start with Lord Byron’s childhood.

Body A. Main point 1: Lord Byron’s childhood

I. Subpoint 1: Birth and disability

a. Lord Byron was born on January 22, 1788, to Captain John Byron and Catherine Gordon Byron. b. According to Paul Trueblood, the author of Lord Byron, Lord Byron’s father only married Catherine for her dowry, which he quickly went through, leaving his wife and child nearly Penniless. c. By the age of two, Lord Byron and his mother had moved to Aberdeen in Scotland and shortly thereafter, his father died in France at the age of thirty-six. d. Lord Byron was born with a clubbed right foot, which is a deformity that caused his foot to turn sideways instead of remaining straight, and his mother had no money to seek treatment for this painful and embarrassing condition. e. He would become very upset and fight anyone who even spoke of his lameness f. Despite his handicap, Lord Byron was very active and liked competing with the other boys.

II. Subpoint 2: Later childhood, sexual abuse.

a. At the age of ten, his grand-uncle died, leaving him the title as the sixth Baron Byron of Rochdale. With this title, he also inherited Newstead Abbey, a dilapidated estate that was in great need of repair. b. Because the Abbey was in Nottinghamshire England, he and his mother moved there and stayed at the abbey until it was rented out to pay for the necessary repairs. c. During this time, May Gray, Byron’s nurse, had already begun physically and sexually abusing him. A year passed before he finally told his guardian, John Hanson, about May’s abuse; she was fired immediately. Unfortunately, the damage had already been done. d. In the book Lord Byron , it is stated that years later, he wrote, “My passions were developed very early—so early, that few would believe me if I were to state the period, and the facts which accompanied it.”

Transition : Although Lord Byron had many obstacles to overcome, during his childhood, he became a world-renowned poet by the age of 24.

B. Main point 2: Lord Byron’s accomplishments as a poet

I. Subpoint 1: Beginning of the career

a. Lord Byron experienced the same emotions we all do, but he was able to express those emotions in the form of his poetry and share them with the world. b. According to Horace Gregory, the author of Poems of George Gordon, Lord Byron , the years from 1816 through 1824 is when Lord Byron was most known throughout Europe. c. But according to Paul Trueblood, Childe Harold was published in 1812 and became one of the best-selling works of literature in the 19th century. d. Childe Harold was written while Lord Byron was traveling through Europe after graduating from Trinity College. e. Many authors such as Trueblood, and Garrett, the author of George Gordon, Lord Byron, express their opinion that Childe Harold is an autobiography about Byron and his travels.

II. Subpoint 2: Poem topics

a. Lord Byron often wrote about the ones he loved the most, such as the poem “She Walks in Beauty” written about his cousin Anne Wilmont, and “Stanzas for Music” written for his half-sister, Augusta Leigh. b. He was also an avid reader of the Old Testament and would write poetry about stories from the Bible that he loved. One such story was about the last king of Babylon. This poem was called the “Vision of Belshazzar,” and is very much like the bible version in the book of Daniel.

Transition : Although Lord Byron is mostly known for his talents as a poet, he was also an advocate for the Greek’s war for independence.

C. Main point 3: Lord Byron’s life other than poetry

I. Sub point 1: Byron arrived in Greece in 1823 during a civil war.

a. Lord Byron, after his self-imposed exile from England, took the side of the Greeks in their war for freedom from Turkish rule. b. The Greeks were too busy fighting amongst themselves to come together to form a formidable army against the Turks. According to Martin Garrett, Lord Byron donated money to refit the Greek’s fleet of ships, but did not immediately get involved in the situation. He had doubts as to if or when the Greeks would ever come together and agree long enough to make any kind of a difference in their war effort. c. Eventually the Greeks united and began their campaign for the Greek War of Independence. d. He began pouring more and more of his fortune into the Greek army and finally accepted a position to oversee a small group of men sailing to Missolonghi. e. Lord Byron set sail for Missolonghi in Western Greece in 1824. He took a commanding position over a small number of the Greek army despite his lack of military training. f. He had also made plans to attack a Turkish held fortress but became very ill before the plans were ever carried through.

II. Sub point II: Death

a. Lord Byron died on April 19, 1824, at the age of 36 due to the inexperienced doctors who continued to bleed him while he suffered from a severe fever. b. After Lord Byron’s death, the Greek War of Independence, due to his support, received more foreign aid which led to their eventual victory in 1832. c. Lord Byron is hailed as a national hero by the Greek nation d. Many tributes such as statues and road-names have been devoted to Lord Byron since the time of his death.

A. Signal end of speech (transition) : In conclusion, B. Review main points and summarize :  Lord Byron overcame great physical hardships to become a world-renowned poet, and is seen as a hero to the Greek nation and is mourned by them still today. C. Sense of completeness/clincher/memorable ending : I have chosen not to focus on Lord Byron’s more liberal way of life, but rather to focus on his accomplishments in life. He was a man who owed no loyalty to Greece, yet gave his life to support their cause. Most of the world will remember Lord Byron primarily through his written attributes, but Greece will always remember him as the “Trumpet Voice of Liberty.”

Sample Informative Speech by Pamela Meyer

Garrett, M. (2000). George Gordon, Lord Byron. New York, NY: Oxford University Press.

Gregory, H. (1969). Poems of George Gordon, Lord Byron. New York, NY: Thomas Y. Crowell Company.

Trueblood, P. G. (1969). Lord Byron. (S. E. Bowman, Ed.). New York, NY: Twayne Publishers.

It’s About Them: Public Speaking in the 21st Century Copyright © 2022 by LOUIS: The Louisiana Library Network is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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37 Chapter 12: Informative Speaking

Learning Objectives

After reading this chapter, the student will be able to:

• Recognize opinion versus factual information;
• Recognize the different types of informative speeches;
• Decide on the best organizational approach for types of informative speeches;
• Follow proven guidelines for preparing an informative speech;
• Construct an informative speech.

Chapter Preview

– What is an Informative Speech?

– types of informative speeches, – guidelines for selecting an informative speech topic, – guidelines for preparing an informative speech, – giving informative speeches in groups.

Informative speecha speech based entire- ly and exclusively on facts and whose main purpose is to inform rather than persuade, amuse, or inspire Defining what an informative speech is can be both straight-forward and somewhat tricky at the same time. Very simply, an informative speech can first be defined as a speech based entirely and exclusively on facts.

Basically, an informative speech conveys knowledge, a task that every person engages in every day in some form or another. Whether giving someone who is lost driving directions, explaining the specials of the day as a server, or describing the plot of a movie to friends, people engage in forms of informative speaking daily. Secondly, an informative speech does not attempt to convince the audience that one thing is better than another. It does not advocate a course of action. Consider the following two state- ments:

George Washington was the first President of the United States.

Irrefutablea statement or claim that cannot be argued In each case, the statement made is what can be described as irrefutable , meaning a statement or claim that cannot be argued. In the first example, even small children are taught that having two apples and then getting two more apples will result in having four apples. This statement is irrefutable in that no one in the world will (or should!) argue this: It is a fact.

Similarly, with the statement “George Washington was the first President of the United States,” this again is an irrefutable fact. If you asked one hundred history professors and read one hundred history textbooks, the professors and textbooks would all say the same thing: Washington was the first president. No expert, reliable source, or person with any common sense would argue about this.

(Someone at this point might say, “No, John Hanson was the first presi- dent.” However, he was president under the Articles of Confederation for a short period—November 5, 1781, to November 3, 1782—not under our present Constitution. This example shows the importance of stating your facts clearly and precisely and being able to cite their origins.)

Opiniona personal view, atti- tude, or belief about something Therefore, an informative speech should not incorporate opinion as its basis. This can be the tricky part of developing an informative speech, be- cause some opinion statements sometime sound like facts (since they are generally agreed upon by many people), but are really opinion.

For example, in an informative speech on George Washington, you might say, “George Washington was one of the greatest presidents in the history of the United States.” While this statement may be agreed upon by most people, it is possible for some people to disagree and argue the opposite point of view. The statement “George Washington was one of the greatest presidents in the history of the United States” is not irrefutable, meaning someone could argue this claim. If, however, you present the opinion as an

opionion from a source, that is acceptable: it is a fact that someone (hope- fully someone with expertise) holds the opinion. You do not want your central idea, your main points, and the majority of your supporting mate- rial to be opinion or argument in an informative speech.

Additionally, you should never take sides on an issue in an informative speech, nor should you “spin” the issue in order to influence the opinions of the listeners. Even if you are informing the audience about differences in views on controversial topics, you should simply and clearly explain the issues. This is not to say, however, that the audience’s needs and inter- ests have nothing to do with the informative speech. We come back to the WIIFM principle (“What’s in it for me?) because even though an informa- tive speech is fact-based, it still needs to relate to people’s lives in order to maintain their attention.

The question may arise here, “If we can find anything on the Internet now, why bother to give an informative speech?” The answer lies in the unique relationship between audience and speaker found in the public speaking context. The speaker can choose to present information that is of most value to the audience. Secondly, the speaker is not just overloading the audience with data. As we have mentioned before, that’s not really a good idea because audiences cannot remember great amounts of data and facts after listening. The focus of the content is what matters. This is where the specific purpose and central idea come into play. Remember, public speak- ing is not a good way to “dump data” on the audiene, but to make informa- tion meaningful.

Finally, although we have stressed that the informative speech is fact- based and does not have the purpose of persuasion, information still has an indirect effect on someone. If a classmate gives a speech on correctly using the Heimlich Maneuver to help a choking victim, the side effect (and probably desired result) is that the audience would use it when confronted with the situation.

While the topics to choose from for informative speeches are nearly limit- less, they can generally be pared down into five broad categories. Under- standing the type of informative speech that you will be giving can help you to figure out the best way to organize, research, and prepare for it, as will be discussed below.

Type 1: History

A common approach to selecting an informative speech topic is to discuss the history or development of something. With so much of human knowl- edge available via the Internet, finding information about the origins and

evolution of almost anything is much easier than it has ever been (with the disclaimer that there are quite a few websites out there with false infor- mation). With that in mind, some of the areas that a historical informative speech could cover would include:

(Example: the baseball; the saxophone). Someone at some point in history was the first to develop what is considered the modern baseball. Who was it? What was it originally made of? How did it evolve into the baseball that is used by Major League Baseball today?

(Example: your college; DisneyWorld). There is a specific year that you college or university opened, a specific number of students who were ini- tially enrolled, and often colleges and universities have name and mission changes. All of these facts can be used to provide an overall understanding of the college and its history. Likewise, the DisneyWorld of today is dif- ferent from the DisneyWorld of the early 1970s; the design has developed over the last fifty years.

(Example: democracy; freedom of speech). It is possible to provide facts on an idea, although in some cases the information may be less precise. For example, while no one can definitively point to a specific date or indi- vidual who first developed the concept of democracy, it is known to have been conceived in ancient Greece (Raaflaub, Ober, & Wallace, 2007). By looking at the civilizations and cultures that adopted forms of democra- cy throughout history, it is possible to provide an audience with a better understanding of how the idea has been shaped into what it has become today.

Type 2: Biography

A biography is similar to a history, but in this case the subject is specifically a person, whether living or deceased. For the purposes of this class, biog- raphies should focus on people of some note or fame, since doing research on people who are not at least mildly well-known could be difficult. But again, as with histories, there are specific and irrefutable facts that can help provide an overview of someone’s life, such as dates that President Lincoln was born (February 12, 1809) and died (April 15, 1865) and the years he was in office as president (1861-1865).

This might be a good place to address research and support. The basic dates of Abraham Lincoln’s life could be found in multiple sources and you would not have to cite the source in that case. But it you use the work of a

specific historian to explain how Lincoln was able to win the presidency in the tumultuous years before the Civil War, that would need a citation of that author and the publication.

Type 3: Processes

Examples of process speech topics would be how to bake chocolate chip cookies; how to throw a baseball; how a nuclear reactor works; how a bill works its way through Congress.

Process speeches are sometimes referred to as demonstration or “how to” speeches because they often entail demonstrating something. These speeches require you to provide steps that will help your audience un- derstand how to accomplish a specific task or process. However, How To speeches can be tricky in that there are rarely universally agreed upon

(i.e. irrefutable) ways to do anything. If your professor asked the students in his or her public speaking class to each bring in a recipe for baking chocolate chip cookies, would all of them be the exact same recipe?

Probably not, but they would all be similar and, most importantly, they would all give you chocolate chip cookies as the end result. Students giving a demonstration speech will want to avoid saying “You should bake the cookies for 12 minutes” since that is not how everyone does it. Instead, the student should say something like:

“You can bake the cookies for 10 minutes.”

“One option is to bake the cookies for 10 minutes.”

“This particular recipe calls for the cookies to be baked for 10 min- utes.”

Each of the previous three statements is absolutely a fact that no one can argue or disagree with. While some people may say 12 minutes is too long or too short (depending on how soft or hard they like their cookies), no one can reasonably argue that these statements are not true.

On the other hand, there is a second type of process speech that focuses not on how the audience can achieve a result, such as changing oil in their cars or cooking something, but on how a process is achieved. The goal is understanding and not performance. After a speech on how to change a car tire, the audience members could probably do it (they might not want to, but they would know the steps). However, after a speech on how a bill goes through Congress, the audience would understand this important part of democracy but not be ready to serve in Congress.

Type 4: Ideas and Concepts

Sometimes an informative speech is designed to explain an idea or con- cept. What does democracy mean? What is justice? In this case, you will want to do two things. First, use the definition methods listed in Chapter 6, such as classification and differentiation. The second is to make your concept concrete, real, and specific for your audience with examples.

Type 5: Categories or divisions

Sometimes an informative speech topic doesn’t lend itself to a specific type of approach, and in those cases the topics tend to fall into a “general” category of informative speeches. For example, if a student wanted to give an informative speech on the four “C’s” of diamonds (cut, carat, color, and clarity), they certainly wouldn’t approach it as if they were providing the history of diamonds, nor would they necessarily be informing anyone on “how to” shop for or buy diamonds or how diamonds are mined. The ap-

proach in this case would simply be to inform an audience on the four “C’s” and what they mean. Other examples of this type of informative speech would be positions in playing volleyball or the customs to know when trav- eling in China.

As stated above, identifying the type of informative speech being given can help in several ways (conducting research, writing the introduction and conclusion), but perhaps the biggest benefit is that the type of informative speech being given will help determine, to some degree, the organizational pattern that will need to be used (see Chapter 6). For example, a How To speech must be in chronological order. There really isn’t a way (or reason) to present a How To speech other than how the process is done in a time sequence. That is to say, for a speech on how to bake chocolate chip cook- ies, getting the ingredients (Main Point 1) must come before mixing the ingredients (Main Point 2), which must come before baking them (Main Point 3). Putting them in any other order will only confuse the audience.

Similarly, most Histories and Biographies will be organized chronologi- cally, but not always. It makes sense to explain the history of the baseball from when it was first developed to where it is today, but certain approach-

es to Histories and Biographies can make that irrelevant. For an informa- tive speech on Benjamin Franklin, a student might choose as his or her three main points: 1) His time as a printer, 2) His time as an inventor, 3) His time as a diplomat. These main points are not in strict chronological order because Franklin was a printer, inventor, and diplomat at the same time during periods of his whole life. However, this example would still be one way to inform an audience about him without using the chronological organizational pattern.

As for general informative speeches, since the topics that can be includ- ed in this category are very diverse and cover a range of subject matter, the way they are organized will be varied as well. However, if the topic is “types of” something or “kinds of” something, the organizational pat-

tern would be topical; if it were the layout of a location, such as the White House, it would be spatial (refer to Chapter 6 for more on Organization).

While some of the guidelines for selecting a topic were discussed in Chap- ters 2, 4, and 5, this section will more specifically focus on informative speech topics and problems that can arise when choosing them.

Pick a specific or focused topic

Perhaps one of the biggest and most common misconceptions students have about informative speech topics is that the topic needs to be broad in order to fill the time requirements for the speech. It is not uncommon for a student to propose an informative speech topic such as “To inform my audience about the history of music.” How is that topic even possible? When does the history of music even begin? The thinking here is that this speech will be easy to research and write since there is so much informa- tion available. But the opposite is actually true. A topic this broad makes doing research even harder.

Let’s consider the example of a student who proposes the topic “To in- form my audience about the Civil War.” The Civil War was, conservatively speaking, four years long, resulted in over 750,000 casualties, and argu- ably changed the course of human history. So to think that it is possible to cover all of that in five to seven minutes is unrealistic. Also, a typical

college library has hundreds of books dealing with the Civil War. How will you choose which ones are best suited to use for your speech?

The better approach in this case is to be as specific as possible. A revised specific purpose for this speech might be something like “To inform my audience about the Gettysburg Address.” This topic is much more compact

(the Gettysburg Address is only a few minutes long), and doing research will now be exponentially easier—although you will still find hundreds of sources on it. Or, an even more specific topic would be like the one in the outline at the end of this chapter: “To inform my classmates of the specific places in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, that are considered haunted.”

Instead of looking through all the books in your campus library on the Civ- il War, searching through the library’s databases and catalog for material on the Gettysburg Address will yield a much more manageable number of books and articles. It may sound counterintuitive, but selecting a speech topic that is very specifically focused will make the research and writing phases of the informative speech much easier.

Avoid faux or fake informative speech topics

Sometimes students think that because something sounds like an informa- tive speech topic, it is one. This happens a lot with political issues that are usually partisan in nature. Some students may feel that the speech topic “To inform my audience why William Henry Harrison was a bad president” sounds factual, but really this is an opinion. Similarly, a number of topics that include conspiracy and paranormal subject matter are usually mistak- en for good informative topics as well.

It is not uncommon for a student to propose the topic “To inform my au- dience about the existence of extraterrestrials,” thinking it is a good topic. After all, there is plenty of evidence to support the claim, right? There are pictures of unidentified objects in the sky that people claim are from outer space, there are people who claim to have seen extraterrestrials, and most powerful of all, there are people who say that they have been abducted by aliens and taken into space.

The problem here, as you have probably already guessed, is that these facts are not irrefutable. Not every single person who sees something unknown

in the sky will agree it is an alien spacecraft, and there can be little doubt that not everyone who claims to have been abducted by a UFO is telling the truth. This isn’t to say that you can’t still do an informative speech on alien sites. For example, two viable options are “To inform my audience about the SETI Project” or “To inform my audience of the origin of the Area 51 conspiracy.” However, these types of speeches can quickly devolve into opinion if you aren’t careful, which would then make them persuasive speeches. Even if you start by trying to be objective, unless you can present each side equally, it will end up becoming a persuasive speech. Additional- ly, when a speaker picks such a topic, it is often because of a latent desire to persuade the audience about them.

Don’t Be Too Broad

In preparing and writing an informative speech, one of the most common mistakes students make is to think that they must be comprehensive in covering their topic, which isn’t realistic. Take for example an informative speech on Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln was 56 years old when he died, so to think that it is possible to cover his entire life’s story in 5 to 7 minutes is un-realistic. As discussed in Chapter 4, the better option is to select three aspects of his life and focus on those as a way to provide an overall picture of who he was. So a proposed speech on Lincoln might have the specific purpose: “To inform my audience about Abraham Lincoln’s administra- tion of the Civil War.” This is still a huge topic in that massive books have been written about it, but it could be addressed in three or four main points such as:

• The Civil War began in the aftermath of Lincoln’s Election and Inauguration
• Finding the right military leaders for the Union was his major chal- lenge at the beginning.
• The Emancipation Proclamation changed the nature of the War.
• Lincoln adopted a policy that led to the North’s victory.

Regardless of the topic, you will never be able to cover everything that is known about your topic, so don’t try. Select the things that will best help the audience gain a general understanding of the topic, that will interest them, and that they hopefully will find valuable.

Be Accurate, Clear, and Interesting

A good informative speech conveys accurate information to the audience in a way that is clear and that keeps the listener interested in the topic.

Achieving all three of these goals—accuracy, clarity, and interest—is the key to being an effective speaker. If information is inaccurate, incomplete, or unclear, it will be of limited usefulness to the audience.

Part of being accurate is making sure that your information is current. Even if you know a great deal about your topic or wrote a good paper on the topic in a high school course, you will need to verify the accuracy and completeness of what you know, especially if it is medical or scientific information. Most people understand that technology changes rapidly, so you need to update your information almost constantly. The same is true for topics that, on the surface, may seem to require less updating. For example, the Civil War occurred over 150 years ago, but contemporary research still offers new and emerging theories about the causes of the war and its long-term effects. So even with a topic that seems to be unchanging, carefully check the information to be sure it’s accurate and up to date.

What defines “interesting?” In approaching the informative speech, you should keep in mind the good overall principle that the audience is asking, “what’s in it for me?” The audience is either consciously or unconsciously wondering “What in this topic for me? How can I use this information? Of what value is this speech content to me? Why should I listen to it?” One reason this textbook uses examples of the Civil War is that the authors’ college is located by several Civil War sites and even a major battlefield.

Students see reminders of the Civil War on a regular basis.

You might consider it one of the jobs of the introduction to directly or in- directly answer these questions. If you can’t, then you need to think about your topic and why you are addressing it. If it’s only because the topic is interesting to you, you are missing the point. For example, why should we know about Abraham Lincoln’s administration of the Civil War? Obviously, because it had significant, long-term consequences to Americans, and you should articulate that in terms the audience can understand.

Keep in Mind Audience Diversity

Finally, remember that not everyone in your audience is the same, so an informative speech should be prepared with audience diversity in mind. If the information in a speech is too complex or too simplistic, it will not hold the interest of the listeners. Determining the right level of complexity can be hard. Audience analysis is one important way to do this (see Chapter 2). Do the members of your audience belong to different age groups? Did they all go to public schools in the United States, or are some them internation- al students? Are they all students majoring in the same subject, or is there a mixture of majors? Never assume that just because an audience is made up of students, they all share a knowledge set.

There are instances where you will be called upon to give an informative speech as part of a group of other informative speakers. This situation may be referred to as a panel or as a symposium. The difference is that in a panel, the focus is on a discussion by experts in front of an audience. The expert speakers may start with an opening statement, but typically the panelists are seated and their opening remarks are designed to pres- ent their basic position or stance and the bulk of time is spent in ques- tion-and-answer from the audience, from the moderator, or from each other. Some tips for panels are given here . (https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=vJG698U2Mvo)

A symposium is more formal and the experts or presenters have put to- gether prepared speeches on different aspects of an overall topic. For example, they may all be experts on juveniles in the criminal justice sys- tem, but they have chosen or been assigned a specific informative topic for the audience, who are probably also professionals in that field. One might speak on challenges with legal representation for juveniles, another on family reconciliation, another on educational opportunities, and so on. While there may be time for question and answers at the end, the bulk of the time is taken up by the prepared speeches.

The author has used the symposium format in her teaching of the informa- tive speech for over 25 years. The students at first are skeptical, but usu- ally afterward they see the benefit of the experience in the classroom. For one thing, instead of a class of 25-30 separate and unrelated informative speeches in the class, there are four sets of related speeches that explore a topic in more depth. Some popular topics have been physical and mental health issues (diabetes, breast cancer, pets, schizophrenia, phobias), the arts (musical genres, history of film), travel, and food. In those years, there have been topics that didn’t work. Serial killers and sexually transmitted infections were two of them. One speech on that is acceptable. Six or seven, not so much. Just to clarify, the author always assigns the groups but the students pick the topics.

Here are some pointers if you are assigned to give a symposium-style in- formative speech. 1. Spend ample time discussing the topics so that every- one is supportive of the overall topic and the way the topic is broken down into separate speech topics. Do not let one person run the show and insist on a specific topic. A strong personality can sway the rest of the group

and then later the other members become unhappy about the topic and resentful of the persuasive member. 2. Try to develop topics in different ways; for example, let’s take the overall topic of phobias. The temptation is for each separate speech to be a specific phobia. While this is all right, it becomes repetitive to the audience. There are other ways to develop the subtopics (origins, different treatment options, phobias related to certain

demographic groups) instead of six or seven speeches on different pho- bias. 3. Be in constant communication with your peers so that you know exactly what their topics are and how they are being developed. You don’t want one or two co-presenters to “go rogue” and change their topics with- out the knowledge of the others in the group. You also do not want to end up overlapping, so that part of your speech is actually in someone else’s speech. Share phone numbers so you can text or call each other, if the members are willing. 4. You should appoint a moderator who will intro- duce the speeches and speakers and close or call for questions when the speeches are completed, and possibly summarize the set of speeches at the end. This member does not have to be the first or last speaker in the group.

• Be sure the order of speeches is logical, not random. 6. Be sure to get to the class early so you can set up and feel secure that your team members are present. 7. If you are required to have a question-and-answer session at the end, the moderator should try to make sure that the participation is balanced and one talkative person doesn’t answer all the questions. There will be questions you cannot answer, so just be honest and say, “I didn’t find that answer in my research.”

Many instructors use this format because it not only teaches informative speaking skills, but because it emphasizes team work. You will be expect- ed to do many team projects in your educational and professional careers, and this is a good way to start learning effective teamwork skills.

Learning how to give informative speeches will serve you well in your col- lege career and your future work. Keep in mind the principles in this chap- ter but also those of the previous chapters: relating to the informational needs of the audience, using clear structure, and incorporating interesting and attention-getting supporting evidence.

Something to Think About

Here are three general topics for informative speeches. Write specific pur- poses for them and explain how you would answer the WIIFM question.

• Type 1 diabetes
• The psychological effects of using social media

Two outlines for informative speeches are provided on the following pages. They utilize slightly different formats; other outline formats are included in one of the appendices. Your instructor will let you know which one he or she prefers or will provide examples of another format.

Sample Outline: Informative Speech on Lord Byron

By shannon stanley.

Specific Purpose: To inform my audience about the life of George Gordon, Lord Byron.

Central Idea: George Gordon, Lord Byron overcame physical hardships, was a world-renowned poet, and an advocate for the Greek’s war for free- dom.

Introduction

• Imagine an eleven year old boy who has been beaten and sexually abused repeatedly by the very person who is supposed to take care of him.
• This is one of the many hurdles that George Gordon, better known as Lord Byron, overcame during his childhood.
• Lord Byron was also a talented poet with the ability to transform his life into the words of his poetry.
• Byron became a serious poet by the age of fifteen and he was first published in 1807 at the age of nineteen.
• Lord Byron was a staunch believer in freedom and equality, so he gave most of his fortune, and in the end, his very life, supporting the Greek’s war for independence.
• While many of you have probably never heard of Lord Byron, his life and written work will become more familiar to you when you take Humanities 1201, as I learned when I took it last semester.
• Lord Byron was born on January 22, 1788 to Captain John Byron and Catherine Gordon Byron.
• According to Paul Trueblood, the author of Lord Byron, Lord Byron’s father only married Catherine for her dowry, which he quickly went through, leaving his wife and child nearly penniless.
• By the age of two, Lord Byron and his mother had moved to Aberdeen in Scotland and shortly thereafter, his father died in France at the age of thirty-six.
• Lord Byron was born with a clubbed right foot, which is a deformity that caused his foot to turn sideways instead of remaining straight, and his mother had no money to seek treatment for this painful and embarrassing condition.
• He would become very upset and fight anyone who even spoke of his lameness.
• Despite his handicap, Lord Byron was very active and liked competing with the other boys.
• At the age of ten, his grand-uncle died leaving him the title as the sixth Baron Byron of Rochdale.
• With this title, he also inherited Newstead Abbey, a dilapidated estate that was in great need of repair.
• Because the Abbey was in Nottinghamshire England, he and his mother moved there and stayed at the abbey until it was rented out to pay for the necessary repairs.
• During this time, May Gray, Byron’s nurse had al- ready begun physically and sexually abusing him.
• A year passed before he finally told his guardian, John Hanson, about May’s abuse; she was fired im- mediately.
• Unfortunately the damage had already been done.
• In the book Lord Byron, it is stated that years later he wrote “My passions were developed very early- so early, that few would believe me if I were to state the period, and the facts which accompanied it.”
• Although Lord Byron had many obstacles to overcome during his childhood, he became a world renowned poet by the age of 24.
• Lord Byron experienced the same emotions we all do, but he was able to express those emotions in the form of his poetry and share them with the world.
• According to Horace Gregory, The author of Poems of George Gordon, Lord Byron, the years from 1816 through 1824 is when Lord Byron was most known throughout Europe.
• But according to Paul Trueblood, Childe Harold was pub- lished in 1812 and became one of the best-selling works of literature in the 19th century.
• Childe Harold was written while Lord Byron was traveling through Europe after graduating from Trinity College.
• Many authors such as Trueblood, and Garrett, the author of George Gordon, Lord Byron, express their opinion that Childe Harold is an autobiography about Byron and his travels.
• Lord Byron often wrote about the ones he loved the most, such as the poem “She Walks in Beauty” written about his cousin Anne Wilmont, and “Stanzas for Music” written for his half-sister, Augusta Leigh.
• He was also an avid reader of the Old Testament and would write poetry about stories from the Bible that he loved.
• One such story was about the last king of Babylon.
• This poem was called the “Vision of Belshazzar,” and is very much like the bible version in the book of Daniel.
• Although Lord Byron is mostly known for his talents as a poet, he was also an advocate for the Greek’s war for inde- pendence.
• Lord Byron, after his self-imposed exile from England, took the side of the Greek’s in their war for freedom from Turkish rule.
• Byron arrived in Greece in 1823 during a civil war.
• The Greek’s were too busy fighting amongst them- selves to come together to form a formidable army against the Turks.
• According to Martin Garrett, Lord Byron donated money to refit the Greek’s fleet of ships, but did not immediately get involved in the situation.
• He had doubts as to if or when the Greek’s would ever come together and agree long enough to make any kind of a difference in their war effort.
• Eventually the Greek’s united and began their cam- paign for the Greek War of Independence.
• He began pouring more and more of his fortune into the Greek army and finally accepted a position to oversee a small group of men sailing to Missolonghi.
• Lord Byron set sail for Missolonghi in Western Greece in 1824. 1. He took a commanding position over a small num- ber of the Greek army despite his lack of military training.

2. He had also made plans to attack a Turkish held fortress but became very ill before the plans were ever carried through.

• Lord Byron died on April 19, 1824 at the age of 36 due to the inexperienced doctors who continued to bleed him while he suffered from a severe fever.
• After Lord Byron’s death, the Greek War of Indepen- dence, due to his support, received more foreign aid which led to their eventual victory in 1832.
• Lord Byron is hailed as a national hero by the Greek nation.
• Many tributes such as statues and road-names have been devoted to Lord Byron since the time of his death.
• In conclusion, Lord Byron overcame great physical hardships to become a world-renowned poet, and is seen as a hero to the Greek nation and is mourned by them still today.
• I have chosen not to focus on Lord Byron’s more liberal

way of life, but rather to focus on his accomplishments in life.

• He was a man who owed no loyalty to Greece, yet gave his life to support their cause.
• Most of the world will remember Lord Byron primarily through his written attributes, but Greece will always re- member him as the “Trumpet Voice of Liberty.”

Garrett, M. (2000). George Gordon, Lord Byron. New York, NY: Oxford University Press.

Gregory, H. (1969). Poems of George Gordon, Lord Byron. New York, NY: Thomas Y. Crowell Company.

Trueblood, P. G. (1969). Lord Byron. (S. E. Bowman, Ed.). New York, NY: Twayne Publishers.

Sample Outline: Informative Speech on Haunted Places in Gettysburg

By leslie dean.

Specific Purpose: To inform my classmates of specific places in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, that are considered to be haunted.

Introduction: Do you believe in paranormal activity? Have you ever been to a place that is haunted? My personal opinion on this subject matter is open to question; however, there are a lot of people that have had first- hand encounters with the paranormal. Throughout the world there are countless places that are considered to be haunted by tormented souls that still lurk among us in search of a way to free their souls. Most places that claim to be haunted are intertwined with tales of battles and as a re- sult many fatalities. Tragic times in history make for the perfect breeding grounds for the haunted places that exist today.

Thesis/Preview: Gettysburg is a city that is plagued by historical events that play a role in the manifestations that haunt Gettysburg today. These include locations at The Devil’s Den, Little Round Top, and the Hummel- baugh House.

• The Devil’s Den is considered a site for paranormal activity.
• The Devil’s Den has historical significance retained during the American Civil War.
• Location held heavy fighting during battle that took place on July 2, of 1863.
• The total death toll estimated during battle consist- ed of 800 for the Union and more than 1,800 for the

Confederates.

• Some reported paranormal activity at the Devil’s Den.
• According to author, consultant, and lecturer Dennis William Hauck, he states in his book Haunted Places that if you stand outside at the Devil’s Den there can be the sounds of drum rolls and gunshots heard.
• According to many visitors there have been many people that claim to have seen and/or taken pictures of and had conversations with a friendly soldier who either disappears or doesn’t show up in photographs.

Transition: Spooky, unexplainable things happen at the Devil’s Den but there is also paranormal activity in another area of Gettysburg, Little Round Top.

• Another location said to be haunted is Little Round Top.
• Little Round Top’s historical significance.
• A site where Union soldiers held up to maintain an advantage over the Confederate soldiers.
• According to James Brann, an author from Civil War Magazine, this was a site Union Colonel Joshua

Lawrence Chamberlain led his 20th Maine Regiment in perhaps the most famous counterattack of the Civil War.

• Manifestations at Little Round Top.
• During filming of the movie Gettysburg (1993), extras portraying Union soldiers were greeted by a man in the uniform of a Union private.
• Handed them musket rounds.
• Actual rounds that dated back to the Civil War.
• Ghostly solders can still be seen marching in for- mation and riding horses in the fight against their enemy.

Transition: It seems that a lot of landmarks are haunted but there are also structures known to be stricken with paranormal activity.

• Hummelbaugh House is a non-battlefield place for ghost-sightings.
• Historical significance of Hummelbaugh House.
• The house is located on the east side of the city and was just behind the Union lines.
• It was used for a hospital and because of the times amputated limbs would be thrown out the windows resulting in a huge pile of body parts.
• Paranormal activity at the house.
• The windows in the house often startle people with

loud vibrations.

• The calls for help from soldiers can still be heard in and around the house.

Conclusion: In closing, according to History.com the Battle of Gettysburg was one of the biggest in the Civil War, resulting in over 150,000 causali- ties. With these statistics it is no surprise that lost souls still lurk the eerie grounds of this historical place. Whether it is vibrating windows or actual encounters with soldiers from 1863, Gettysburg has more than enough encounters with the paranormal to convince the biggest of doubters. Going to Gettysburg would guarantee a chance to literally step back in time and encounter something that is only remembered in history books. So believ- er in the paranormal or not, Gettysburg is a place to go to experience a part of history whether it be historical sites or a random run in with a ghostly soldier.

Brann, J. R. (1999). The full story. America’s Civil War, 12(5), 34. Re- trieved from http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&d- b=fth&AN=2281134&site=eds-live&scope=site

Hauck, D. (1994). The national directory of haunted places. Athanor Press. Battle of Gettysburg. (2019, May 20). History.com. Retrieved from https:// www.history.com/topics/american-civil-war/battle-of-gettysburg

Academic Oral Communication for International Students Copyright © by Joy Xiao is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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• Informative Speech
• Presentation
• Presentational Speaking
• Public Speaking
• Public Speaking Skills

Education Standards

Aasl 21st century learner standards 2007.

Learning Domain: Knowledge Sharing and Civic Engagement

Standard: Use writing and speaking skills to communicate new understandings effectively.

Standard: Demonstrate leadership and confidence by presenting ideas to others in both formal and informal situations.

Standard: Use knowledge and information skills and dispositions to engage in public conversation and debate around issues of common concern.

Standard: Contribute to the exchange of ideas within and beyond the learning community.

How to Write an Informative Speech

This module features a step-by-step process to create an informative speech. It provides concise instructions supported by topical learning resources (textbook chapters, short online articles, brief videos).

How to Create a Speech Your Audience Cares About

So, you've been tasked with creating an informative speech. How do you do that? Just follow these step-by-step instructions.

Step 1: Analyze Your Audience

Before you begin writing your speech, you should analyze the audience of that speech.  After all, every effective speech is crafted with it's real audience in mind.  When you tailor your speech to your real audience, you give yourself the best opportunity to meet your specific purpose - your goal for your audience.  When analyzing your audience, ask yourself these questions:

• Who will hear/see my message?  
• What are their backgrounds?  
• What do they have in common?  
• Where are their areas of difference?  
• What do they already know about my topic?
• What new information might they find useful?
• How can I connect my speech to my audience members' real lives?

The answers to these questions will help you write a speech that has maximum positive impact.  For even more techniques about connecting to your real audience, read the article  "Common Speaker Pitfalls"  by  Craig Valentine  in  Toastmasters Magazine.

How to Write the Body of Your Speech

Step 2: write your speech body.

"Wait, shouldn't I start with the introduction?" you might ask yourself.

No.  Not unless you are a fan of doing extra, repetitive, unnecessary work.  Are you?  I'm not. :)

While an introduction comes first in your speech (and your outline), you need to know what you're introducing before you can write it.  How can you introduce the content of your speech if you haven't written that content yet?  Sure, you can guess, but one of two things will likely happen:

• You'll guess wrong, and your introduction won't match your speech body when you finally write it.  Then you'll have to either fix it (creating extra work for you), or stick with a disjointed speech that is difficult for the audience to follow.  Neither of these are great options.
• You'll be so worried about making the mistake above that you will force the body of your speech to match the introduction, even when your initial plan isn't the most effective one.  Then, when you do a peer feedback activity in class, you'll get advice from a classmate in which s/he will recommend that you change the introduction and the speech body to make sense (which, again, is more extra work for you).

To Read: 

Save yourself the time and the hassle and write your speech body (approx. 80% of your speech content) first.  How do you do this?  Read  chapter 10, "Creating the Body of a Speech"  in Stand Up, Speak Out: The Ethics and Practice of Public Speaking.

How to Transition Between Your Main Points

You decided on the main points of your speech body.  Good!

You developed those main points with subpoints.  Excellent!

Those subpoints include some combination of examples, definitions, statistics, and testimony to help your audience understand your ideas.  Rock on!

Now you need to tie everything together so your speech body flows logically, which will help your audience follow your speech. Your textbook explained transitions in chapter 10 , but they can be a tricky concept to grasp without an example.  

To Watch: 

Watch this short student speaker video montage to clarify how presenters use transitions to help clarify the organization of their speech body:

Click here for captioned version

How to Write the Introduction to a Speech

You did it!  You wrote the speech body which means you completed about 80% of the speech writing process.  Nice work :)  Only a bit left to do.

Step 3: Write Your Introduction

Now that you have a speech body, you can introduce it to your audience.  Effective introductions intrigue and entice the audience into listening to your message.  They also lay out an organizational plan to help the audience follow your train of thought.  Effective introductions include five important elements to accomplish this goal:

• Attention-getter
• Purpose statement -  I tend to refer to this as a "topic statement"
• Establishment of credibility
• Audience connection
• Main idea preview -  I sometimes refer to this as a "thesis statement preview"

To learn about each of these elements, read  chapter 9 "Introductions Matter: How to Begin a Speech Effectively"  in Stand Up, Speak Out: The Ethics and Practice of Public Speaking.

How to Capture the Audience's Attention

The attention-getter is the most important part of the introduction because it convinces your audience to listen to the rest of your speech.  If you can't catch the audience's attention from the very beginning, getting them to listen to your message later in the speech will be extremely difficult.

Tips for success:

• The attention-getter requires a lot of creativity.  If you get stuck while trying to write it, move on to the easier elements in the intro (topic statement, thesis statement) then circle back around.
• Brainstorm by running through the list of attention-getting devices and consider how you might use them in your speech (ex: "What interesting brief story could I tell about my topic?"  "What thought-provoking question could I ask my audience relating to my topic?"  "What presentation aid could I show to illustrate my topic in a unique way?")
• Don't go with the first attention-getter you think of.  Write down a list of possible ideas (5 - 10) and give yourself time to analyze, refine, and improve them before you commit to one. 
• Don't be afraid to replace your attention-getter with a better one if you have an "aha" moment!

Want some examples of attention-getters?  

Watch this student-produced montage from a variety of public speeches: Click here for captioned version

How to Establish Your Credibility

In addition to convincing the audience to listen to your speech (the attention-getter), you also need to convince them to trust you and the information you're sharing with them.  One way you establish your credibility is nonverbal - how you dress, your posture, eye contact, etc.  Another way is verbal - tell your audience explicitly why they should believe you in a sentence or two in the introduction.

• Do you have personal experience  with your topic?  If so, briefly explain that experience.
• Did your research your topic using credible sources?  If so, briefly preview those.

You will continue to build your credibility throughout the speech body, but mentioning it in the introduction helps the audience trust you from the very beginning of your speech.  

Want to see how real speakers establish their credibility?  Check out this student speaker montage: Click here for captioned version

How to Write the Conclusion of a Speech

Step 4: write your conclusion.

The conclusion of your speech is the shortest part - around 5% - 10% of your total speech length.  Even though it's a small section, it's a powerful one because it helps you reinforce your message for your audience for lasting impact.  An effective conclusion has three specific elements:

Clearly signal the end of your speech by reviewing your topic

• Your textbook authors label this a thesis statement review
• Use a concluding statement at the very beginning of your conclusion.  Common concluding statements include "In conclusion..." "To close..." "Let's review" "To sum it up..." etc.  
• Then add in a reminder of your topic.  For example, "To review, today we learned how to create a natural deodorant from common kitchen products" 

Review your main points

• You may hear me call this a thesis review, because that's how I was trained.  
• I'm trying to switch to the phrasing "main point review" instead to reduce confusion.

End with a concluding device

• I often refer to this as a final thought or memorable ending.
• In a persuasive speech, I'm looking for a clear call to action.  

What are your options for concluding devices?  Read chapter 11, "Concluding with Power,"  in Stand Up, Speak Out: The Ethics and Practice of Public Speaking.

How to Choose the Right Concluding Device

Your concluding device (aka, final thought or memorable ending) is going to be different in an informative speech than it is for a persuasive speech.  

• In an informative speech, you'll leave your audience with a residual message.  You won't ask them to do anything, because doing something is inherently persuasive and thus out of line with your general and specific purpose.
• In a persuasive speech, you will provide a call to action.  

So what's the difference?  Read  the article "How to End a Speech" by Lisa B. Marshall  to find out.

That's it! You just wrote your informative speech. Congratulations :)

Now it's time to create a set of speaking notes, select your presentation aids, rehearse your speech, and present with confidence! Stay tuned for future modules which will cover these topics.

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Informative Speech

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Understanding Different Types of Informative Speeches with Examples

Ever been asked to create an informative speech that's both interesting and clear? High school and college students usually get to write these kinds of speeches every now and then. 

It's not just about sharing facts and figures; it's about making the topic come alive. The struggle lies in transforming complex subjects into narratives that resonate with your audience.

Don't worry, we're here to help!

• 1. What is an Informative Speech?
• 2. How to Write an Informative Speech?
• 3. Types of Informative Speech
• 4. Informative Speech Examples
• 5. Informative Speech Topics
• 6. Do's and Don'ts of Informative Speech Writing

What is an Informative Speech?

An informative speech is a type of speech writing that is delivered to inform the audience about a particular topic. 

It's your guide to delivering knowledge and insights to an audience. But what exactly is it? Well, think of it as a talk designed to educate, inform, and enlighten. The primary goal is to provide your listeners with valuable information about a specific topic, unlike persuasive speech which intends to persuade the audience.

Why Is an Informative Speech Written?

Informative speeches are written to educate and inform an audience about a specific topic. Here are some key reasons why they are important:

• Clarifying Complex Ideas: They break down complex ideas into simpler, more understandable parts. This helps the audience grasp intricate subjects that they might not fully understand otherwise.
• Raising Awareness: Informative speeches can raise awareness about important issues, such as environmental conservation, public health, or social justice. By presenting facts and data, speakers can inform their audience about critical topics that may affect their lives.
• Educational Purposes: In educational settings, informative speeches are a key method for teachers and students to convey information. They help students develop their research, writing, and public speaking skills.
• Professional Development: In the workplace, informative speeches can be used to share updates, introduce new policies, or provide training. This helps keep everyone informed and on the same page.

In summary, informative speeches educate and engage audiences, making complex topics easy to understand.

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

How to Write an Informative Speech?

Speech writing is often the most challenging part of preparing one. If you haven’t written an effective speech you can’t make an influence while presenting it. A successful speech keeps the audience engaged and interested in the information being presented.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to write a winning informative speech:

Step 1: Choose a Topic 

Opt for a topic that's not just informative but also intriguing, something that'll captivate your audience. It's a decision that hinges on the five W's - Who, What, When, Where, and Why.  

Here's how you can navigate this selection process and create a compelling, fact-based speech:

1. Who - Consider Your Audience

Identify your audience's interests and preferences. Tailor your topic to resonate with them, whether they are students, professionals, or a general audience.

2. What - Define Your Purpose

What are you passionate about? What knowledge can you share? Your topic should align with your expertise and enthusiasm, ensuring you speak with authority and authenticity.

3. When - Consider Relevance

Choose a topic you are passionate about and knowledgeable in. Ensure it aligns with your expertise and enthusiasm.

4. Where - Location Matters

Think about the geographic or cultural relevance of your topic. Local, global, or universal themes can connect with your audience.

5. Why - Importance and Impact

Ensure your topic is significant. Aim to educate, inform, or inspire your audience, answering why your topic matters.

If you're in need of topic inspiration, explore our informative speech topics blog.

Step 2: Create an Informative Speech Outline

Start by creating a structured informative speech outline , which traditionally consists of an introduction, body, and conclusion. Here's how to structure an informative speech:

With this structure, your informative speech will be well-balanced, engaging, and easy for your audience to follow. It's the blueprint for your speech's success!

Step 3: Write the Introduction

Craft an introduction that hooks your audience from the get-go. Tell them what's in store for the speech, what they'll learn, and why it's important.

Tips for a compelling introduction:

• Begin with a thought-provoking hook statement to grab attention.
• Clearly state your speech's specific purpose, keeping it focused.
• Include a thesis statement that encapsulates the main idea and guides your speech's development.

Step 4: Craft a Strong Body

In the body section, add facts and figures to boost the credibility of your topic. Make sure to develop your main ideas with precision.

Tips for organizing the body:

• Define the key ideas related to your topic that warrant emphasis.
• Arrange your main points in a logical order for easy comprehension.
• Incorporate real-life examples to bolster your claims.
• Ensure seamless transitions to lead to the conclusion.

Step 5: Prepare the Conclusion

The conclusion is the heart of your speech, where you distill the essence of your message.

Tips for preparing the conclusion:

• Restate your thesis statement to remind the audience of your speech's main idea.
• Add anecdotes or quotes to make your speech memorable.
• Reinforce the key ideas you've conveyed.
• Elevate the emotional impact on your audience.

Step 6: Proofread and Edit

Once your writing is complete, the finishing touch is editing and proofreading. Read your speech aloud to assess its flow.

• Ensure you've used precise language and well-structured sentences.
• Correct any grammatical or typographical errors to polish your speech to perfection.

With this guide in hand, you're well on your way to crafting an informative speech that not only informs but also captivates and inspires your audience.

Types of Informative Speech

There are many ways to inform the audience about a particular topic. The informative speech is one of those several ways. This speech can be about an object, an event, a concept, or a process.

The table below has different types of informative speeches with descriptions: 

Informative Speech Examples

Now that you know the process of writing, check out these informative speech examples for students. These sample speeches give you a better understanding of how to organize your content properly.

Let’s take a look at these good informative speech examples:

For more samples visit our informative speech examples blog and explore a range of inspirational examples!

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Informative Speech Topics

Presenting information at a high level, backed by supporting material, is always a good idea for an informative speech. Here's a range of fact-based topics that will captivate your audience members and encourage them to listen attentively:

• The Power of Renewable Energy Sources: A Fact-Based Overview
• Exploring Artificial Intelligence: How It Shapes Our Future
• The Wonders of Space Exploration: Beyond Our World
• Climate Change: Uncovering the Facts and Solutions
• The Influence of Social Media on Society: A Deep Dive
• Mental Health Awareness: Shattering the Stigma
• The History of Cryptocurrency: From Bitcoin to Blockchain
• The Art of Effective Communication: Building Meaningful Connections
• Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace: A Good Idea for Success
• The Impact of Global Warming on Marine Life: An Urgent Call to Action

Looking for more topic suggestions? Check out our blog on demonstration speech ideas to get your inspiration!

Do's and Don'ts of Informative Speech Writing

The dos and don'ts can help you create an informative speech that is engaging, informative, and well-received by your audience. Let’s take a look:

To Sum it Up!

If you’re great at public speaking but find speech writing a bit overwhelming, you’re not alone. Many people can deliver an effective speech but struggle with the writing part.

Don’t worry—you’ve come to the right place.

MyPerfectWords.com is a writing service you can trust for custom writing. Our writers are experts at crafting all types of informative speeches and delivering them on time. So, if you’re wondering, " Can I pay someone to do my essay ?" the answer is yes!

Contact us today and buy speech written by our professional writers. We’re here to help you make a great impression!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i start off an informative speech.

Start an informative speech by grabbing the audience's attention with a surprising fact, quote, or question. Introduce your topic clearly, present a concise thesis statement, and briefly outline the main points you will cover. This approach engages the audience and sets clear expectations for your speech.

What should an informative speech include?

• Introduction: Capture the audience's attention, introduce the topic, and present a clear thesis statement.
• Body: Present well-organized main points with supporting evidence, examples, and data.
• Conclusion: Summarize the main points, restate the importance of the topic, and end with a memorable closing statement.

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• Writing Tips

25 Topics for an Informative Speech

• 3-minute read
• 20th November 2023

Have you been asked to give an informative speech, or do you simply want to practice your public speaking skills ? If the answer to either question is yes, then the first thing you need to do is choose a topic for your speech. But with so many potential topics, how can you pick just one? In this post, we’ve narrowed down 25 topics for an informative speech to help you find the one that works best for you.

Choosing a Topic

Informative speeches aim to educate the audience on a particular subject or industry. Unlike persuasive speeches , informative ones are not meant to convince the listener to believe or act a certain way; they are meant to be purely descriptive and explanatory.

The best topics for informative speeches are engaging, interesting, valuable, and relevant to the target audience . Choose a topic about which you have a comprehensive understanding or one you intend to research substantially. After all, it’s easy to deliver an engaging presentation and educate your audience when you’re extremely knowledgeable about the topic! Next, let’s take a look at 25 interesting topics for an informative speech, organized by subject.

Science and Technology

●  The impact of artificial intelligence on society

●  Recent advancements in space exploration

●  Recent breakthroughs in medical research

●  The science behind climate change and its effects

●  The evolution of social media

●  What is 3D printing?

Health and Wellness

●  The effect of regular exercise on overall health

●  How sleep impacts brain functioning

●  Understanding stress and stress management techniques

●  How does sugar impact the body?

●  Key figures in the Civil Rights movement

●  Significant women in history

●  Sculpture of the Renaissance

●  A history of fashion in the Victorian era

●  An exploration of the Olympics from their beginning

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●  The history and impact of open-access education

●  An exploration of virtual learning over the past 25 years

●  How high schools differ around the world

●  A look back at education in 19th-century America and the way it compares to current methods

●  The history of homework

The Environment and Sustainability

●  How to reduce your carbon footprint

●  What is zero-waste living?

●  The significance of global water conservation

●  The impact of air pollution on public health

●  The impact of oil spills on the environment

Tips for Giving an Informative Speech

If you’re giving an informative speech, remember to:

●  Do your research! Gather information from credible, authoritative sources when composing your speech. Avoid sources that discuss strictly the opinion of the author and look for solid, factual evidence to support your topic.

●  Consider your audience. Do they have at least a baseline knowledge of the topic? The answer to this question will help determine how deep you should go in your explanations and what kind of language to use.

●  Organize your ideas . Before you begin writing, create a comprehensive outline that includes the introduction, main ideas, and conclusion.

●  Use anecdotes or examples to make your content more engaging and relevant to your audience.

●  Anticipate potential questions and jot down notes you can easily refer to.

Here’s one last essential speech writing tip: to ensure a smooth delivery and enhance your writing, have your speech professionally proofread and edited. Our editors can make sure your informative speech effectively conveys your message and engages your audience. Send in your free sample today to get started.

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• Informative Speech Outline

43 Informative Speech Outline Templates & Examples

Are you looking for ways to make your informative speech interesting? There are multiple ways through which you can make it sound interesting to your audience. If you are a student, you may have to write such kind of speeches every now and then. Besides students, business owners also have to come up with such kind of speeches for their audience.

Table of Contents

• 1 Informative Speech Outline Examples
• 2 What is an Informative Speech?
• 3.1 Definitional Speech
• 3.2 Descriptive Speech
• 3.3 Explanatory Speech
• 3.4 Demonstration Speech
• 4 Informative Speech Outline Templates
• 5.1 Eye Contact
• 5.2 Tone of Your Voice
• 5.3 Expressive Hand and Body Gestures
• 6 Informative Speech Samples
• 7 Tips for Your Informative Speech from a Professional

You can use multiple ways to enhance your informative speeches. In order to know more about informative speeches, its types, and how you can make it sound interesting, read through this article

Informative Speech Outline Examples

What is an Informative Speech?

An informative speech is a type of speech mostly based on facts and figure. The facts are presented in front of the audience to teach them about a specific topic. It is necessary for an informative speech to have reliable sources to support claims. At times, presenters think to add some life to their speeches by putting in visual aids, images or appealing photographs. This is done to ensure that the audience remains engaged and not get overwhelmed with just facts and figures. As the name implies, an informative speech likely focuses on the general information covering history, evolution and other necessary information in order to teach the audience about a specific topic. For instance, if you are giving an informative speech about baking bread, you can explain the history of bread, its evolution and how to bake it efficiently. Sometimes, people often think that informative essays and informative speeches are one as the same thing, but it is not so. Unlike informative essays , the presentation is the key element for informative speeches.

Furthermore, while giving an informative speech, your tone can vary. You can fluctuate your tone, raising your voice or talking normally. But most importantly, you should include credible sources to support your ideas and claims. The audience can become more knowledgeable on the subject. The speaker of the informative speech should be well-versed about the entire subject and able to answer the detailed questions that are asked. The speaker should do thorough research on the topic and should be able to defend their side.

Normally, there are four types of topics for informative speeches: concepts, objects, events, and processes. Like other types of speeches, an informative speech also has an introduction, body, and conclusion. So, make sure you do include all the parts in order to make the right kind of informative speech outline. If you are not sure about the informative speech outline, you can download the informative speech outline template. We have several different kinds of informative speech outline examples for you. Simply download any of them and edit it with your speech.

Additionally, informative speech is unlike the persuasive speech as it just highlights the facts and figures in order to draw upon conclusions. On the contrary, persuasive speech has certain opinions and conclusions in the speech besides the sourceable facts. An informative speech has limitless options. From fictitious to non-fictitious topics, informative speeches can be given on any kind of topic. But just make sure that you have enough knowledge about it. All in all, the main goal of the informative speech is to provide enlightenment about the specific topic the audience does not know about.

Types of Informative Speeches

Now that you have understood what actually informative speech is, you should also understand that there are different types of speeches. Check out the four types below.

Definitional Speech

In the definitional speeches, the speaker explains the meaning of theories, concepts, issues and philosophies that the audience may not know about. In such types of speeches, the speakers may begin by providing a history of the topic and background to the subject. Let’s continue the similar example which we mentioned above of baking bread.

Considering this example under this form of speech, the speaker would elucidate about what a bread actually is, the history of the bread, how it changed from time and what are the parts of a bread called. The speaker will give shape to such kinds of things throughout the speech.

Descriptive Speech

The purpose of a descriptive speech is to provide vivid and detailed information of a person, place, animal, or thing. Also, it is supported by a word picture. This kind of informative speech is different from the definitional speeches because it helps in determining the characteristics, functions, features and the key points of the topic.

For instance, if you are providing a speech on the famous Statue of Liberty in the United States, you should let the audience know all about its nuts and bolts. You should know what kind of material is used in order to make it, how it was made, what is its historical significance, why is it located on that spot etc. There are many things that you need to answer in these kinds of descriptive speeches.

Explanatory Speech

An explanatory speech is also known as a briefing. Explanatory speech is somehow like descriptive speech as both of them share the function of clarifying the topic. But these kinds of speeches mostly focus on reports of historical and current events, transformations, customs, inventions, outcomes, policies, and options.

Additionally, these speeches focus on the explanations more, considering how and why aspect most importantly. On the contrary, descriptive speeches do not go in too many details while the explanatory speeches go into depth.

Demonstration Speech

Demonstration speech type is also one of the informative speech types that help listeners determine how to accomplish or perform things on their own. This type of speech is based on demonstration. When speakers have to give this type of speech, they focus on the processes having a series of steps which has specific beginning and ending. These types of speeches are normally given to the audience who do not have any know-how about the product. For instance, if a representative is giving speech to the audience in public about a product, they would use demonstration speech approach.

Also, there are certain products that include set of tools and associated features. It can be quite challenging to write the demonstration speeches as they may include several objects, steps, features, related events or relationships. If you want to prepare this speech, you should first remember to keep safety of the audience in your mind. You should make sure that the tools or elements you are using do not hurt the audience.

For instance, if you want to give a demonstration speech using fire, make sure that you do it carefully. There have been many cases in history when demonstration speeches have gone wrong. So, you must ensure to keep the safety of the audience in your mind. Besides, if you want to write a demonstration speech, we have a template available for that too. Simply download it and edit the outline with respect to your needs.

Informative Speech Outline Templates

Checklist for Your Informative Speech

According to a research, when you give speech to the audience, words are the least important part while communicating. As per the study, when you do face-to-face conversation with others, you need to focus on your actions. Here are some elements that you need to take care of. Find the checklist for your informative speech below.

Eye Contact

Your audience will get bored if you just read through the text on the presentation. This would not help the audience in understanding the speech you are giving to them. A good speech is the one which is supported by proper eye contact and is accompanied with good presentation skills. Also, according to a study, effective communication is based on trust.

Your audience will trust you if you make an eye contact with them. You should see into the eyes of the audience in order to evaluate if they are interested and grasping the idea or not. The cooperation increases when we watch the audience. When you would make an eye contact, it would increase trustworthiness and also encourage future cooperation.

Tone of Your Voice

In addition to making an eye contact, the tone of your voice is equally important when it comes to giving a speech. Your audience will not be interested if you give the speech in a monotonous tone. Also, informative speeches may also get dull due to the facts and figures in it. Along with the tone of your voice, the facial expressions also matter.

According to experts, if the tome remains the same, neural dissonance takes place inside the brain causing confusion in the person. In order to express joy, your voice should become increasingly melodic and when you want to portray sadness, you can shift your tone to monotonic. There is a lot of variability in both, the speed and tone.

Expressive Hand and Body Gestures

Hand and body gestures also play a very important role. Your audience would get really very bored if you stand straight in one position and do not use your hand and body gestures. The gestures are really very important as they help in the comprehending the language. Audience’s brain would want both, your sound as well as your body movements in order to accurately perceive what is meant.

According to a research, if our gestures and words are dissimilar, it will likely create a confusing state for the listener’s brain. So, you need to ensure that you use your hand and body gestures during your speech but make sure that you do it at the right time. We would suggest you to practice speaking in front of the mirror and use your hands in order to describe the words that you are going to speak in front of the audience.

Informative Speech Samples

Tips for Your Informative Speech from a Professional

If you want to write an effective informative speech, then you should be following the tips below by the professional.

• You should be providing information in every minute of your speech. There should not be any filler texts or information. An informative speech is made for the core reason to make every minute worth for the audience. Keep in mind that you are not trying to impress them; you are just trying to provide them information during your speech.
• In addition to providing information to the audience, you should also give examples of real world situations so that your audience can relate to the information on practical basis. You are just there to help your audience learn information.
• Make sure that you make an eye contact with your audience in order to help them trust you. Remember that your goal is to educate the audience and make them believe in what you say.
• You should be quite sincere and credible about the speech you are giving to your audience. You should not put the information that you think is not reliable.
• At the end of the information speech, you should be ready to ask questions. Or let your audience know that you would ask them in the end so that they stay prepared by the end of the session.

Informative speech outline is readily available on our main website. If you are looking for informative speech outline template of any type, you can download it from our main website and use for your effective informative speech. We hope our templates help you in giving the best speech.

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Graduation Speech Examples

50 Interesting Informative Speech Topics for College

26 September, 2020

15 minutes read

Author:  Mathieu Johnson

Informative speeches grant speakers a responsible mission of educating people about significant ideas and themes. They’re also about sharing thoughts and opinions on this or that topic, aimed at expanding understanding and providing listeners with relevant insights for further deliberation. Therefore, it’s a particular type of speeches given to put things into sharp focus and offer food for thought. Read up to know which informative speech topics have the most impact.

What is an informative speech?

As mentioned above, it’s a kind of speech that, well, informs the audience about your topic. Sounds simple enough, but simplicity is deceptive, and there are enough secrets behind this science. Specifically, not all people are fully aware of the fact that the “what” question is a key element that needs to be answered, for with informative speeches, you want to choose a topic most likely to be well received.

Of course, you can speak about something you already know, but you can also talk about the topic which is absolutely new to you. In this case, however, you must make sure that the theme will be relatively easy to research and studied before speech delivery. Another important point worth noticing is that organizational requirements and type of information for informative speech usually intertwines with those for an informative essay, for the latter is often an extension of the first.

How to write an informative speech?

So, now it’s time to move from theory to practice and write an informative speech. But where do you start from?

Although there are many different processes involved in the process, we’ll narrow them to essentials to help you better grasp the idea of how a perfect speech should be tailored.

Stage 1. Research and Brainstorming

Think about the topic.

The first and most crucial step is about choosing the right topic. We’ve mentioned before that it’s vital to select the issue you feel free to talk about. However, there are also cases when professors assign a specific task for you. Either way, the point here is to conduct thorough research based on the given or chosen topic.

If you want to explain the history of some company, band or event, for example, make sure to deliver the message clearly, without going here and there. For this, consider talking about particular points which will cover the whole speech and help the audience quickly digest it. Otherwise, your speech will depart from the topic, and listeners will find it challenging to follow your thoughts.

Gather Evidence

Every scholarly work proves its credibility by the inclusion of relevant sources to show both the audience and the instructor that you’ve put enough effort into the work to sound authoritative. This is a great chance to get a good mark, but more importantly, earn trust from listeners. To cite the evidence correctly, you can search for some facts, stats, or numbers in a variety of sources. These include textbooks, books, and encyclopedias (online ones work as well), scholarly articles, reputable news bureaus, and government documents. If these are hard to find for you, think of alternatives, like online journals and magazines. But be careful and don’t use sources from there if they are not credible and reputable. As an example, use The New York Times, The Guardian, Harvard Business Review, SAJE journals, Forbes, etc.

Also, keep in mind that the evidence you’ll use should depend on the subject of your talk. If it’s about science, check scientific publications. If it’s about medicine – embark upon texts on this specific sphere. Finally, don’t forget to create a works cited page at the end of your speech and put all your sources there. Even if your instructor does not specify such a requirement, create a list anyways. This will help you keep references organized, and you will be able to pick a suitable one from the list.

Generate a Nice Thesis

A thesis is the core of impactful speech that tells listeners about its focal points. It also reveals the purpose of your speech and provides the audience with an insight into what the speech is all about. Notably, your thesis should not exceed the length of one-two sentences and be as precise as possible. More so, thesis, like the speech itself, is not about convincing people to take your topic stance immediately. Rather, it’s about informing listeners about significant events or cases which they could analyze and make relevant conclusions themselves. No need to push them or force to change the perspective, just try to be genuine and honest with people you’re talking to. Considering that it’s a scholarly piece of work, there’s no room for appealing to emotions or subjective claims. So in informative speeches, objectivity is the key player.

Informative speech outline

The outline is a skeleton of your speech that briefly explains each of your points. This is basically a list of short sentences which reveal the meaning of your main speech ideas. Remember that this list is not for the audience; it’s for your own use. So the task here is to write about every point in a way you’ll understand. You can also use notecards instead of paper so that it’ll be much easier for you not to get lost in a sea of ideas and organize the speech properly. Tip: include numbers and capital letters for headings, and bullet points or other figures to mark subheadings.

If you are still unsure on whether you can cope with your task – you are in the right place to get help. Our essay writers will easily answer the to the question “Who can write my speech?”

Stage 2. Writing

Once the sketches are ready and you have a clear understanding of what to speak about, move on straight to writing.

Craft an Engaging Intro

What does engaging stand for in this case? It denotes some speech elements which will be enticing for listeners from the first sentence. It’s a common practice to start speeches with different hooks to call for more people’s attention. There are a plethora of techniques you can use to make an unforgettable first impression: jokes, anecdotes, examples from personal life, interesting statistics, rhetorical questions, quotes of famous people. You can even invent your own attention-grabber which will help you knock down listeners.

Give More Detail in the Main Body

Once you managed to create impact by the introduction and made sure everyone will be eager to listen to you further, you need to expand the explanation of key speech ideas in a well-structured, organized manner. Like in regular life, you start a story from the beginning to the end, while gradually moving from one idea to another. The same goes for informative speech – you need to ensure that the flow of your narration is logical and concise, fully elaborated, and precise. Also, don’t forget about making transitions between sentences. They will make your speech flow naturally, helping the audience to process the information much easier and effortlessly.

Wrap Everything Up in Conclusion

The ending of your informative speech should restate the main idea and the thesis you’ve mentioned in the introduction. There’s no need to say new things that will only confuse your audience. Instead, all the conclusion needs is a nice wrapping of the already stated claims.

So basically you want to review your main points and thereby deliver listeners a message which they will perceive as a major takeaway from what you’ve just told them. However, the introductory part should by no means repeat previous information word by word. It’s just a short restatement that covers up the main points.

Proofread and Edit the Final Version

Once the text is written entirely, it’s a must for you to double check it to avoid possible mistakes. If your informative speech turns out not as informative as expected due to grammatical or lexical errors, you’ll not be taken seriously, which we bet is not the purpose of delivering your talk. So, to prevent casualties from happening, you’ll need to use reliable editing and proofreading tools. Grammarly is an excellent source for this. Its accurate algorithm detects all kinds of mistakes and fixes them on the fly in a matter of seconds. And you can also check the text for plagiarism to make sure that it has no analogs anywhere on the web.

Stage 3. Perfecting Speech Delivery

Memorize your speech.

Half work is done – you have a writing piece. Now it’s time to learn it. Of course, it’ll take you time to do this, but with a little patience and enough time, you can memorize it even faster than expected. Besides, it’s not recommended to learn the speech from A to Z, inside out and upside down by heart. If your instructor is indulgent enough, feel free to memorize your talk in a way that allows you to explain your ideas clearly and consistently. To facilitate the process of learning, you can memorize sentence by sentence until you’re confident. And even if you forget something during delivery, you can always count on the outline that’ll give you a hint on what to talk about next.

Practice Reading Speech Aloud

When the final product is finally ready and polished, you need to concentrate on reading it.

Practice the speech in a mirror, to a friend/relative/pet, or record yourself to trace the tone and intonation. This way, you’ll make sure that your informative speech is brilliant and you deliver it just the way you wanted. Besides, this practice can help you critically evaluate the flaws and correct them before the actual delivery. Have enough time for this, because even experienced speakers always rehearse their speeches. Finally, focus on the way you use gestures, the way you stand and look at the audience, and facial expressions.

List of informative speech topics

There are lots of easy informative speech topics to choose from, but we offer you to review our topics list with some of the most alluring ones to get you started. Let’s examine pro informative topics that’ll help you write a memorable speech.

Topics for informative speech about music

• Frank Sinatra – a beloved father of music
• The drastic evolution of french music
• Deep house – the most popular music style among youngsters
• Why did rock and roll became an epitome of popular dance music
• Why does reggae music most known under the name of Bob Marley
• The psychological and physical benefits of listening to music
• Chill, lounge and electronica has market the era of progressive sound
• The impact of rap music on society at large
• The art of playing the violin
• The evolution of jazz music and its connection to historical movements

Informative speech topics about animals

• Why are so many animals under extinction today and how do we fix it?
• Why dogs are considered as humans best friend?
• The history and evolution of polar bears
• Why does rhinos horn trimming in South Africa still allowed
• How to properly raise chinchillas
• The most dangerous types of dogs on the planet
• Staggering intellectual abilities of elephants baffle even scientists
• How to keep snakes away and save your life
• Different types of butterflies
• The history of bees and their role in the world

Topics for informative speech about global warming

• Patterns in climate change: rising temperatures and flooding
• What Effects does Climate Change have on the Earth and its Inhabitants?
• What are the practical solutions to global warming
• What is global warming and what causes it?
• The future of global warming: dismal predictions and statistics
• Controversial opinions about global warming
• The greenhouse effect as the top one reason of climate change
• The global issue of global warming: what’s next?
• Humans are responsible for the emergence and progress of global warming
• Sanctions against generation of greenhouses: will they ever take place?

Informative speech ideas about sports

• How sports improve human physical and psychological health
• Is golf the game of the past?
• The real life of sport teams: from trainings to furious games
• Can roller skating be considered a kind of sport?
• What’s more dangerous: white water rafting or ice diving?
• The history of sports: whom do we owe respect?
• Hockey 101: gear, playing techniques, team spirit
• Why is boxing the most dangerous type of sports
• The most unusual kinds of sports humans have invented
• The importance and potential threat of football for the world 

Interesting speech topics about food and drinks

• How to bake a cake and not put on weight
• Why does alcohol bring so much trouble to contemporary youth?
• There are no superfoods, the study shows
• Does fast food really cause addiction?
• The secret ingredient of Coca Cola and why you’ll never want to drink it again
• If the fruit diet useful for health?
• Why bananas can save the world
• Eating vegetables and olive oil is a golden ticket to rejuvenation
• What’s the difference between natural and processed foods?
• Why eating pizza is the worst way to get away with cooking

As you can see from the list of topics for speeches, informative speech is a perfect occasion to explore interesting themes in depth and share your knowledge with people who are most likely to learn new things with you. Discovering a variety of topics and writing them on paper is perhaps the most engaging task your instructor has ever assigned you. And if you find it challenging to come with the right idea for a good topic, just send a “ write my speech ” request, and we’ll complete your order in no time.

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126 Good Informative Speech Topics – 2024

June 23, 2024

What is an informative speech? You may be asking this question if you find yourself needing to give one for a class or extracurricular. Unlike a persuasive speech , which is designed to convince an audience of something, or a debate , which can be polemic by nature, an informative speech is meant to educate its listeners on a topic, elucidate an unclear idea, or simply help an audience delve more deeply into a subject. In other words, while informative speeches can persuade or argue, they don’t have to. In this article, we’ll highlight a few tips on how to choose good informative speech topics, and then provide a list of 126 informative speech ideas to get you brainstorming for your next big speech!

How to Choose Informative Speech Topics

Your choice of informative speech topic will depend greatly upon the task at hand: is this speech for a class? A passion project ? A campus rally? A professional development conference? Recruiting for a particular major, club, or community service organization? A high school speech competition? Once you know the purpose and parameters of your speech, it will be easier to select an informative speech topic that is an appropriate subject and size. Additionally, it’s important to consider your audience, expertise, scope, research, and tone before you delve into your writing.

Knowing your target audience is key to creating reciprocity, or the necessary give and take between speaker and listener that creates communication and understanding. Speakers who know their audiences are better able to shape their speeches to be well-received. [i] Imagine, for example, you’re giving an informative speech on “Jane Austen’s narrators.” You must ask yourself: are you giving your speech to a panel of scholars, to educated adult non-experts, or to grade school-aged children? If your audience will be comprised of literature professors, your speech should provide fairly advanced and in-depth knowledge and should be filled with the latest developments in professional literary criticism. If your audience is made up of grade school-aged children, you’ll want to start with the basics, like who was Jane Austen? And what, exactly, is a narrator?

As you give your informative speech, you’ll want to think about not only your audience’s level of expertise in your speech topic, but also your own (and it’s okay if you’re a novice in the subject!). [ii] An informative speech often includes or takes into consideration a synthesis of preexisting scholarship in a field or information around a topic. While you don’t need to apprise your audience of an entire body of research before you begin delivering your speech, you do want to have a working knowledge of the preexisting conversation around your informative speech topic. [iii] This will inform the level of research you’ll need to perform before you begin writing your speech.

In terms of selecting research sources, it’s good to remember the three P’s: peer-reviewed , published , and prestigious . A peer-reviewed source is one that has been evaluated by a group of experts in the field of the writer. It has undergone the most stringent editing and fact-checking and, when first published, is the most up-to-date information in a field. A published source is one that has also usually undergone some editing before publication – though you’ll want to be wary of self-published sources and online publications (these usually don’t receive the same kind of scrutiny as printed texts).

Finally, it’s certainly okay to use online sources, but you want to make sure they are coming from a prestigious or at least well-known source like a national newspaper or even an established commercial website. A good tip for assessing a source’s quality is to check: does this source cite any outside resources in a works cited or in footnotes?

You want to be sure that you are able to cover a topic thoroughly, given the time and resources allotted. For example, if you have five minutes to give an informative speech to your psychology 101 classmates, you could choose a general topic like, “Why was Sigmund Freud important to psychology?” If you have an hour to give an informative speech at a professional psychology conference, you might provide a detailed account of Sigmund Freud’s most important contributions to a particular branch of modern psychology and explain its current significance to the field, including recent developments in research and clinical practice.

Finally, something crucial to consider is the emotional register of your speech. Is the subject matter something serious like an illness or climate change? Or is it a politically charged topic like immigration or gun control? Is it light, like “how to make pizza dough” or “the invention of the roller coaster?” Or is it merely intriguing or educating like, “personality typing and psychology,” “owning a poodle,” or “Ben Franklin’s top five aphorisms?” Gauging the emotional involvement of your audience will help you choose an appropriate informative speech topic for the project at hand and will ultimately let you craft a more effective speech.

The 126 informative speech ideas below run the gamut from broad to very specific and can all serve as starting points as you brainstorm what you’d like to give a speech on. Good luck!

Health & Medicine Informative Speech Topics

1) Ideas on curbing the spread of future global pandemics.

2) What is the endocrine system?

3) What is a physician’s assistant?

4) The importance of blood donation.

5) Disparities in healthcare between different demographic groups.

6) How did Marie Curie contribute to the medical field?

7) What is the role of nurses in primary care settings?

8) What subspecialties are there in women’s health?

9) What recent developments have been made in knee replacement surgery techniques?

Good Informative Speech Topics/Informative Speech Ideas (Continued)

10) What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

11) Telehealth and patient outcomes in recent years.

12) How to MRI machines work?

13) Comparing healthcare systems in different countries.

14) The five most important cancer research innovations in the past five years.

15) What is a plague?

16) How does social media affect mental health?

17) What is the World Health Organization?

18) What are the differences between a midwife and an obstetrician?

STEM Informative Speech Topics

19) What are some important differences between commercial and government-sponsored space flight programs?

20) How do rollercoasters work?

21) The relationship between AI and defense.

22) How are robots used in surgeries?

23) How do you solve a quadratic equation?

24) Why are information systems an important part of modern marketing?

25) What recent innovations have been made in the field of machine learning algorithms?

26) How has cloud computing changed in the past five years?

27) What is the role of engineers in mining and extraction?

28) What is a black hole?

29) What is internal combustion?

30) How self-driving cars work.

31) What are some differences between aeronautical and aerospace engineers?

32) What is Euclidian geometry?

33) How is probability be used in sport management?

34) Why are we running out of helium?

35) What is the relationship between cybersecurity and national politics?

36) The most important uses of 3D printing?

Arts & Humanities Informative Speech Topics

37) What are the most likely interpretations of Hamlet’s “To be or not to be?” speech ?

38) What was the Dadaism movement?

39) Why is the Mona Lisa so popular?

40) The differences between highbrow, lowbrow, and commercial cultural production.

41) What are the major tenets of postmodernism?

42) The influences of Alfred Hitchcock on modern cinema.

43) What is the difference between “performance” and “performativity?”

44) What are the differences between an early novel and a romance?

45) Recent developments in literature and ecocriticism.

46) What is the debate on the Elgin Marbles?

47) In what ways was fashion an important element of the Belle Epoch era?

48) The top five most influential texts in speculative fiction.

49) What is pop art?

50) Who was Andy Warhol?

51) What is The Iliad ?

52) Postcolonial studies as an academic field.

53) The history of the Louvre museum.

54) Jane Austen’s narrators and free indirect discourse.

Psychology and Sociology Informative Speech Topics

55) What is the Enneagram and how is it used in therapeutic settings?

56) How did Pierre Bourdieu define “fields?”

57) What is the Panopticon?

58) What is intersectionality?

59) The role of psychologists in school settings.

60) How is behavior psychology related to consumerism and marketing?

61) What is gentrification?

62) The role of the pharmaceutical industry in psychiatric treatment.

63) Who was Sigmund Freud and why is he important?

64) What is the difference between clinical and research psychology?

65) What is the relationship between social media and mental health?

66) What is neuropsychology?

67) What is an ethnographic study?

68) How did Habermas define the public sphere?

69) What is multiple personality disorder?

70) What is are the “gaze” and the “mirror stage,” according to Lacan?

71) Describe the prisoner’s dilemma.

72) What is Maslow’s hierarchy of needs?

Nature and Environment Informative Speech Topics

73) What are some pros and cons of wind farming?

74) Why are microbiomes important for health?

75) What is an axolotl?

76) Death Valley: the hottest place on Earth

77) What threats do spotted lanternflies pose?

78) What are the most significant climate change “points of no return?”

79) Water conservation strategies in the American West.

80) What is biodiversity?

81) How do dolphins communicate?

82) Why was Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring significant for the environmentalist movement?

83) How was the Santorini caldera created?

84) What are plate tectonics?

85) How and why tornadoes happen.

86) What is the El Niño phenomenon and why is it important?

87) Fungus and blue spruce disease in Northeast Ohio.

88) What measures are being taken to curb deforestation in the Amazon?

89) How is the Galapagos ecosystem preserved today?

90) Floridian ecosystems and the Red Tide.

Business, Marketing, Finance and Economy

91) The role of sports merchandising in U.S. women’s Olympic events.

92) Subprime mortgages and the housing market crash of 2008.

93) What are the eight best steps you can take to better your personal finances?

94) Which social media platforms are most lucrative for marketing to each current online generation?

95) What is inflation?

96) What is the relationship between politics and the unemployment rate?

97) What is market saturation?

98) How do we measure the GDP of emergent nations?

99) What developments to we expect to see in the industry competition between EVs and regular automobiles?

100) What is an index fund? What is a mutual fund?

101) Bond holdings late in retirement.

102) The role of social justice in branding.

103) How does search engine optimization work for marketing?

104) Is the influencer economy a bubble?

105) Describe the differences between a CFA and a CPA.

106) What developments have we seen in start-up economies in the past five years?

107) What is embezzlement?

108) What is the history of human resource departments?

History and Travel

109) The religious persuasions of each of Henry VIII’s wives .

110) How the aqueduct system worked in ancient Rome

111) What are the tallest buildings in the world?

112) What was the Black Death?

113) The Watergate Scandal.

114) In what ways was the printing press an important invention?

115) What is the Chernobyl site like today?

116) What was the relationship between Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla?

117) Why was the Great Wall of China built?

118) Who were medieval anchorites?

119) The political significance of whistle-stop train tours.

120) What was the significance of the Second Boer War?

121) The Tennis Court Oath .

122) What are the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World?

123) Witch hunting in 1600s New England.

124) What was the Space Race?

125) Why are the bodies of Pompeiians preserved?

126) What is Machu Picchu?

Good Informative Speech Topics – Works Cited

[i] Lloyd-Hughes, Sarah. How to Be Brilliant at Public Speaking: Any Audience, Any Situation . Pearson Educated Limited, Edinburgh 2011.

[ii] Downs, Douglas and Elizabeth Wardle. “What Can a Novice Contribute? Undergraduate Researchers in First-Year Composition,” Undergraduate Research in English Studies (2010) pp. 173-90).

[iii] Graff, Gerard, and Cathy Birkenstein. They Say / I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing . W.W. Norton & Company, New York, 2006.

Informative Speech Ideas – Additional Reading

• 149 Capstone Project Ideas and Examples
• 100 Best Political Science Research Topics
• 64 Social Issues Topics 
• High School Success

Jamie Smith

For the past decade, Jamie has taught writing and English literature at several universities, including Boston College, the University of Pittsburgh, and Carnegie Mellon University. She earned a Ph.D. in English from Carnegie Mellon, where she currently teaches courses and conducts research on composition, public writing, and British literature.

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My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

509 Informative Speech Ideas and 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.

How to Choose the Right Informative Topic

Half the battle of presenting a speech or writing an essay is choosing the right topic. Choosing a good informative speech topic or informative essay topic can keep your audience entertained, your reader interested, and your own work process more enjoyable. Here are a few tips to help you choose a topic:

Know your audience or reader: Your informative presentation – whether through speech or essay – should cover a subject not already well known to your audience, but still relevant to them. If you do choose a topic they’re familiar with, then present new and exciting information. Consider the age, knowledge level, and interests of your audience when preparing your informational speech or essay.

Consider your own interests: Think of your own passions and areas of expertise that you think people could benefit from learning more about. Choosing a topic you care about will help your speech or essay be better received. Your passion will keep them engaged and curious to learn more.

Consider length requirements : How much time are you allotted for your informative speech? What is the page requirement for your informative essay? You should be able to thoroughly cover the topic in the amount of time you are given. If you don’t think you have enough knowledge or personal interest to talk about illegal drug use among teens, saving money as a college student, or another informative topic for 20 minutes, you may need to consider a different subject.

The good news is that there are countless options available. Below are lists of informative topics for speeches and essays. Remember that, in order to choose the best informative topic for you, you need to consider your audience, your interests, and your time and length requirements. Then, customize the central idea to suit your situation.

Best 10 Informative Speech Topics

Don’t have time to read our full list of 500+ topic ideas? Here is our list of 10 best informative speech topics.

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• How to adopt a dog
• The history of motorcycles
• The best sales tactics
• The differences between male and female communication
• America’s fastest growing cities
• The importance of education for the economy
• Different stages of poverty
• How to cook vegetarian
• How to keep your skin looking young and wrinkle free
• The different types of poetry

List of Informative Speech Topics

• Communication
• Current Events
• Environment
• Food and Drink
• International Relations
• National Security

Relationships

• Supernatural
• Demonstration
• Easy / Simple
• Interesting
• Legislation
• Pop Culture

10 Animal Informative Speech Topics

• The role of cats throughout history.
• Caring for hermit crabs.
• What are the best pets?
• The lives of ants.
• The different types of tropical fish.
• The different exotic breeds of cats.
• How to raise rabbits.
• The beauty of wolves.
• How to adopt a dog.
• Raising pet snakes.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics About Animals .

10 Automotive Informative Speech Topics

• Is it better to buy or lease a car?
• How to choose the right tires for your car.
• How to make your car run better.
• What to look for in a new car.
• How to change your car’s oil.
• Dirt bike riding safety tips.
• How to drive a stick shift.
• The history of motorcycles.
• How to change a flat tire.
• The best muscle cars.

14 Business Informative Speech Topics

• Taking your brand to the next level with three easy steps: promoting, advertising and marketing.
• How business owners’ personal characteristics impact their business.
• What is the impact of training and development on employee job performance?
• Leadership styles and their effects on employee productivity.
• Engaged employees result in high retention.
• Developing personal power in an organization.
• Impacts of incentives on employee performance.
• Psychological tactics in marketing.
• How to create a successful brand.
• The importance of accounting research.
• The benefits of enterprise resource planning.
• The benefits of multilevel marketing.
• The best sales tactics.
• How to nail the negotiation in your first meeting.

See this page for a full list of Informative Speech Topics for Business .

8 Communication Informative Speech Topics

• How deaf people talk with emotion.
• The differences between male and female communication.
• How to be a persuasive speaker.
• How to improve your conversation skills.
• Some simple conversation tips.
• What is neural linguistic programming (NLP)?
• Why smiles are contagious.
• How to manage communicative disorders.

4 Current Events Informative Speech Topics

• America’s fastest growing cities.
• The Occupy Wall Street movement.
• Poverty in New York City.
• What is the national happiness rate?

6 Economy Informative Speech Topics

• The history of taxes on carbon dioxide emissions.
• What would be the impact on economic growth if everyone produced their own food?
• The impact of progressive taxation on the provision of social services.
• Economic growth of the People’s Republic of China.
• The effects of price and demand of agricultural products.
• The importance of education for the economy.

10 Education Informative Speech Topics

• How EFL teachers can use the internet as a classroom aid.
• Should teachers and students be friends on social networks?
• Why is our education system only based on theory and not practical knowledge?
• Should students be permitted to eat during classes?
• The importance of formal education for building a successful career.
• The pros and cons of teaching students three languages in school.
• What materials work best in a sandbag for blocking floodwaters?
• Hypnosis: its misconceptions and common uses.
• Learning disabilities and their effects on learning in college.
• Are test scores a good indication of a school’s competency?

See this page for a full list of Informative Persuasive Speech Topics .

10 Environment Informative Speech Topics

• Should politicians bring more pollution to our country?
• What would happen if finite resources were not used wisely?
• Four main reasons for generating genetically modified crops.
• The effect of organic and inorganic fertilizer on maize.
• Are we going to lose the rainforest?
• The best ways to protect the environment.
• Commercial crops and their effect on the water table.
• The environmental impact of a meat based diet.
• Recycling helps mitigate the greenhouse effect.
• Why we should stop global warming.

See this page for a full list of Environmental Informative Speech Topics .

3 Ethics Informative Speech Topics

• Is it sometimes better to tell a lie than to tell the truth?
• Is tolerance the same as love?
• Is hunting morally acceptable?

10 Family Informative Speech Topics

• Adopted children should always have the option to see their biological parents.
• The impact of single parenting and its effects on children.
• The appropriate penalties for parental negligence.
• What it is like being the youngest of a family of 19 kids.
• The importance of the parent-child relationship.
• My father is my hero.
• How to pick a name for your children.
• Cases of domestic violence against men.
• The importance of family.
• The history of foster care.

See this page for a full list of Family Informative Speech Topics . We also have a page with Speech Topics for Kids .

18 Financial Informative Speech Topics

• How banks are getting paid twice for your mortgage.
• How to save money in college.
• How to build credit.
• How to save money on your income taxes.
• How to apply for a credit card.
• The basics of financial aid.
• The importance of saving money.
• How to recognize stock market trends.
• The process of buying a house.
• The basics of internet banking safety.
• The best investment strategies.
• How to live on $5 a day/ Eating well on $5 a day.
• Tips on how do deal with money problems.
• The history of our currency.
• How the US Dollar affects the Euro.
• Debt relief programs.
• Does China have a serious stock market?

9 Food and Drink Informative Speech Topics

• The difference between Gatorade and Powerade.
• How to cook a delicious dinner.
• How to grow your own food.
• The different types of coffee.
• How to cook vegetarian.
• How to make a cocktail.
• The best types of cheese.
• The best exotic fruits.
• How to make Chinese food.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topic Ideas On Food, Drink, and Cooking .

11 Fun Informative Speech Topics

• The history of Valentine’s Day, the celebrations in different cultures.
• Some laugh, but there are many courageous people who overcome stuttering.
• Funny Saint Patricks Day parades, pub decorating, Irish fun runs.
• Differences between apes and monkeys, monkeys in space programs, how they live in groups in the zoo.
• Your hand: what your signature, handwriting and your hand palm lines say about your character.
• Amphibian vehicles – search for information about those rare car-boat vehicles, and you have lots of fun informative speech topics to talk about!
• Cartoons in relation to our Freedom of Speech and Expression principles.
• Show the listeners to your public speaking speech some flags of unknown countries, ask them what nation you mean and explain colors and symbols.
• The extraterrestrial life stories and future theories from French author Jules Verne.
• Etiquette and manners, how to cope with special situations, how to behave at official ceremonies you see enough public speaking speeches spicing humor.
• Fashion styles and dress codes at parties and ceremonies.

See this page for a full list of Fun Informative Speech Topics .

5 Geography Informative Speech Topics

• The antipodes – Places on Earth which are diametrically opposite to each other.
• Cartography – How terrestrial globe spheres are crafted.
• Climatology – Patterns in climate change, like rising temperatures and flooding.
• Coasts – Types of coasts, deltas, sea cliffs and beaches.
• What does the continental drift theory mean in vulcanology?

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics On Geography .

9 Government Informative Speech Topics

• The role of accounting in the control of public expenditures in Nigeria.
• What factors affect community participation in public meetings?
• How difficult is it to run a country of 1.2 billion people?
• Speeding cameras are meant to provide government money.
• Should the President be paid while being in office?
• The Federal government’s separation of powers.
• Journalism is our weapon against corruption.
• How a bill passes in state government.
• The best city planning practices.

10 Health Informative Speech Topics

• Steroids, antibiotics, sprays: are these things hurting us?
• The effects of dissociative identity disorder or multiple personality disorder.
• Bigger isn’t always better: the effect fast food has on America.
• The importance of proper stretching before a workout.
• How to keep your skin looking young and wrinkle free.
• The different types of insomnia.
• The causes and effects of Alzheimer’s disease.
• The psychosocial aspects of organ transplantation.
• Controversial ideas about whooping cough vaccines.
• The reasons why stress and depression should be taken seriously.

See this page for a full list of Informative Speech Topics on Health and Fitness . We also have a page with Medical Topics and Psychology topics.

10 History Informative Speech Topics

• The beauty of ancient Egyptian art.
• The most beautiful paintings in history.
• The history of fashion.
• The history of high heels.
• The history of cosmetic makeup.
• The history of Tibetan burial practices.
• What Olympic events did ancient Greece have?
• The history of swear words and their impact on society.
• Words and their meanings that have changed with time.
• Why dragons perform in Chinese New Year celebrations.

See this page for a full list of History Speech Topics .

16 International Relations Informative Speech Topics

• Economic development and the role of the private sector in reducing poverty in Lesotho.
• Tourism and remittances are the solutions for Tonga’s economic growth.
• The military of the Philippines.
• Is South Africa ready for a female president?
• Can democracy bring stability to Pakistan?
• South Africa is an amazing country.
• The impact of U.S drone strikes.
• The discovery of oil in Equatorial Guinea.
• How to help refugees.
• Why everyone should live in China.
• The status of trade relations in East Africa.
• The effects of the Dowry system in India.
• Sri Lanka after thirty years of war.
• Why Africa is underdeveloped.
• The political system of India.
• The purpose of the United Nations.

2 Language Informative Speech Topics

• English is a link language for many parts of the world.
• The origins of cliches.

6 Literature Informative Speech Topics

• Inside the mind of Edgar Allen Poe.
• How to write a book.
• The three trials of Oscar Wilde.
• The meaning of The House on Mango Street.
• The history of vampires in literature.
• The different types of poetry.

21 Media Informative Speech Topics

• What steps are involved in creating a movie or television show?
• How Spotify hurts new artists.
• The benefits of watching less TV.
• How the media has hurt our body image.
• Books that were turned into terrible movies.
• The benefits of reading a newspaper.
• The basics of photography.
• The history of the Titanic movie.
• Some famous advertising campaigns.
• The effects of misleading advertisements.
• Some important women in the media.
• The best foreign TV shows.
• The benefits of satellite radio.
• The best TV sitcoms.
• Al Jazeera, the largest Arabic news channel is the Middle East.
• How Disney produces and distributes short animated films.
• The amazing stage performance of Christina Aguilera.
• The love life of Jennifer Aniston,
• The story of CNN International reporter, Christiane Amanpour.
• The ten actors who played James Bond.
• Top three worst Woody Allen movies.

9 Music Informative Speech Topics

• The different types of marching bands.
• The history of french horns.
• The history of house music.
• The evolution of rock and roll.
• The beauty of reggae music.
• Music as a “lifestyle”.
• The best electronic dance music.
• How to play the kazoo.
• The beauty of Haitian music.

4 National Security Informative Speech Topics

• How illegal things are smuggled into the country.
• The United States military branches.
• The importance of the Air Force.
• The branches of the military.

10 Politics Informative Speech Topics

• Should the U.S. restrict immigration?
• The benefits of communism.
• The most important women in politics.
• Define the term foreign policy and offer current examples.
• The delicate position of women and children in war torn societies and countries on the globe.
• How issues on oil in Nigeria lift the oil prices worldwide.
• How a free trade agreement works.
• The major environmental problems in Australia.
• National gun control statistics compared to the statistics of other countries.
• The function of the Federal Reserve Board in maintaining a stable financial system.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics about Politics .

10 Psychology Informative Speech Topics

• The benefits of greeting people.
• Positive thinking is the key to peaceful living.
• The meaning of dreams.
• How to explain child geniuses.
• Difference between empathy and sympathy.
• How to be more sensitive for an emotionally insensitive person.
• How to know a person’s true personality when we are so good at disguise nowadays.
• Secrets about quiet people.
• How to respond or take a compliment.
• Why do people lie and how to deal with that.

See this page for a full list of Psychology Speech Topics .

12 Relationships Informative Speech Topics

• How marriages today differ from marriages from the 60’s.
• The secrets of happy and successful relationships.
• How to choose the right relationship.
• How to get along with your roommate.
• The guidelines for military marriages.
• How to make long distance relationships work.
• The average age to get married.
• How to talk to people when you have nothing to say.
• How to recognize toxic friends.
• Your Brain Falls in Love Not Only Your Heart.
• Who Was and Is Cupid and Co.
• All You Wanted to Know About Engagement.

10 Religion Informative Speech Topics

• A comparison of Genesis and Revelation in the Bible.
• Modern values are violating religious values.
• How Christ is present in our world.
• What percentage of the world’s population are Christians?
• Why worshipping Satan isn’t a bad thing.
• Why the bunny symbolizes Easter.
• God helps those who help themselves.
• A comparison of different religions.
• The history of the Christian church.
• The main principles of Christianity.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics on Religion and Spirituality .

10 Science Informative Speech Topics

• The difference between an alligator and a crocodile.
• Why whales should not be hunted for food.
• Transhumanism and the evolution of the human race.
• How we can create geniuses.
• Falabella horses are the smallest in the world.
• Why is the colonization of Mars important?
• Albert Einstein’s contributions to science.
• The isolation of nicotinic acid from tobacco.
• The journey to becoming a nuclear physicist.
• Some interesting facts about the human brain.

See this page for a full list of Informative Science Speech Topics .

31 Self-Help Informative Speech Topics

• The difference between boundaries and limits.
• The benefits of affirmation.
• Three goals to strive for in life.
• How to present yourself with confidence.
• Why it’s important to be yourself.
• How to manage your anger.
• How to make a good first impression.
• How to prepare for a job interview.
• Your actions determine your future.
• How to set goals and achieve them.
• How to enhance your public speaking skills.
• How to increase your motivation.
• What makes life meaningful?
• How to take your next big step in life.
• How to construct an argument.
• How to boost your self-esteem.
• How to be happy being single.
• How to avoid procrastination.
• How to improve your manners.
• How to be a good leader.
• The importance of a good attitude.
• How to be more romantic.
• How to break bad habits.
• How to overcome conflict.
• Happiness: The thing we all look for but never really understand.
• What it’s like to be falling in love.
• What is love and what’s not.
• The secret to resolving conflicts.
• Dancing is your secret weapon for happiness and health.
• Things to remember if you don’t want to die with any regrets.

10 School Informative Speech Topics

• Schools should not make money by selling unhealthy candy and soft drinks to students.
• Music with foul language in it should not be allowed at school dances.
• Students should be able to listen to their MP3 players during class.
• Students who commit cyberbullying should be suspended or expelled from school.
• Boys and girls should be taught in separate classrooms.
• Homeschooling produces better results than public schools.
• High School will be the best time of your life.
• Boys are lazier than girls.
• All students should wear school uniform.
• It is possible to Ace your way through High School.

See this page for a full list of School Speech Topics for All Grades .

10 Society Informative Speech Topics

• Why it is bad to judge people by their appearance.
• The lives of isolated indigenous people.
• How to tell someone they are annoying you without being rude.
• How human behavior affects society.
• Left handed people: the underrepresented minority group.
• Is the military a fulfilling career choice for women?
• The effects of discrimination.
• The importance of newspapers in our daily life.
• Do actors and athletes make too much money?
• Why I’m optimistic about our nation’s future.

See this page for a full list of Informative Society Speech Topics .

10 Sport Informative Speech Topics

• Should female students be allowed to play on male sports teams?
• How to do a walking handstand or a cartwheel into the splits.
• Is netball or hockey more dangerous?
• The benefits of sports for all ages.
• Why the spelling bee shouldn’t be on ESPN.
• The worst professional sports teams.
• The importance of sports and games.
• What you should have in your golf bag.
• The history of professional fighting.
• The worst trades in sports history.

See this page for a full list of Informative Sports Speech Topics .

3 Supernatural Informative Speech Topics

• The mystery of the Bermuda triangle.
• The evidence that bigfoot exists.
• The existence of telepathy.

41 Technology Informative Speech Topics

• How roads are built.
• Is wind energy cheap, effective, and practical?
• Why college students should be careful about what they put on social media.
• The uses for artificial intelligence computer networks.
• The danger of putting too much personal information on social networks.
• Modes of communication are constantly changing.
• How has social media impacted our daily lives?
• The line between the human brain and a computer.
• Why technology is a bad thing for growing minds.
• How technology has destroyed human interaction.
• How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?
• The advantages and disadvantages of social media.
• The effects of violent video games on children.
• The decline of interpersonal communication due to technology.
• The difference between hardware and software.
• Antivirus software: beware of malware functions.
• The history of programming languages.
• How voice over IP works.
• What would we do without electricity?
• The benefits of 3D printing.
• The major technological changes since 1990.
• The negative effects of cellphones.
• How to avoid computer viruses.
• The evolution of the internet.
• Computers through the decades.
• How airport biometrics systems work.
• Robots now and in the future.
• How satellites help communication.
• How a water plant operates.
• How watches work.
• The evolution of video games.
• How cellular phones work.
• The evolution of the iPhone.
• How to build a computer.
• How nuclear power works.
• How search engines work.
• How air pressure works.
• The best new technologies.
• The future of electric cars.
• How to practice cyber safety.
• A guide to different social media sites.

15 Travel Informative Speech Topics

• How students can find great vacation bargains.
• The best cruise vacations.
• Famous parliament buildings
• How to test the quality of water when traveling.
• Interesting underground railroad systems in capital cities.
• Investigation shipwrecks at the bottom of the sea.
• The benefits of wind tunnels on transport.
• The discovery of the famous temples in the Maya culture.
• The influence of global warming on Alpine skiing.
• The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• The Wright Brother’s first flight.
• Totem poles and obelisks are symbols of unity, tradition, and pride.
• What you need to know about the Principality of Andorra.
• Why is there a Titanic replica?
• Why the unsinkable and invincible Titanic sank.

9 Workplace Informative Speech Topics

• The benefits of break time for nursing mothers in the workplace.
• The prevalence of dangerous chemicals in the workplace.
• How to survive working in a restaurant.
• Why underwater welding is dangerous.
• How it is to work in the fast food industry.
• How to get a great internship.
• How to become a comedian.
• The most dangerous jobs.
• What are the fastest growing careers?

List of Informative Essay Topics

14 college informative essay topics.

• Benefits of a college degree
• Crimes on college campuses
• Healthiest foods in the campus cafeteria
• How students can stay safe on a college campus
• How students can use eLibrary Curriculum Edition for research
• How to beat senioritis
• How to find cheap textbooks
• How to pick a major
• How to study for and pass a test
• Saving money as a college student
• The story of how your school was founded
• Ways of preventing college dropout
• Whether binge drinking is a problem on your college campus
• Your favorite club or organization on campus

5 Demonstration Informative Essay Topics

• How to bake a cake
• How to knit a scarf
• How to organize a closet
• How to swing a golf club
• How to train your dog

7 Easy / Simple Informative Essay Topics

• A genre of music
• America’s fastest growing cities
• Breeds of dogs
• How a computer works
• Interesting cultures
• Lesser known presidents
• Natural disasters

9 Education Informative Essay Topics

• How to choose a persuasive speech topic
• How to deliver a funny informative speech
• How to deliver a persuasive speech
• How to maintain audience attention during a speech
• How to win your audience with descriptive speech
• How to write a persuasive essay
• How to write an argumentative essay
• How to write an expository essay
• The difference between a thesis statement and a topic sentence

10 Fun Informative Essay Topics

• An impressive world record
• Fun games to play at the beach.
• The history of ice cream
• The revolution of the selfie
• Ways different cultures celebrate Valentine’s Day
• What do people do when they win the lottery?
• What people don’t know about Disneyland
• What you can learn from grade K students
• What your horoscope means
• Why people get tattoos

6 Funny Informative Essay Topics

• Everything you need to know about skinny jeans
• Funny St. Patrick’s Day parades
• How to be nice to people you don’t like
• How to cheat in poker
• How to look attentive when you’re actually not
• Things you can learn from your pet

See this page for a full list of Funny Informative Speech Topics .

10 Health Informative Essay Topics

• All about gluten
• Cause-and-effect relationship of air pollution
• Causes of cancer
• How caffeine works
• How stress affects your body
• How to make exercise a habit
• How to quit smoking
• Symptoms of Alzheimer Disease
• Symptoms of depression
• How to get rid of bad habits

6 Hobbies Informative Essay Topics

• Best places for scuba diving
• Choosing your next book to read
• Peace lily care tips
• Professional baseball stadiums
• The history of your favorite sport
• Types of tropical fish

9 Interesting Informative Essay Topics

• Effects of global warming
• Exotic pets
• How to perform an attention-getting first dance at your wedding
• Near-death experiences
• Places to see in northern Nevada
• The biography of Clyde Tombaugh
• The history of a cliche marriage ritual
• What is your dog actually thinking?
• What your handwriting says about you

See this page for a full list of Informative Interesting Speech Topics .

7 Life Informative Essay Topics

• How to drive a stick-shift
• How to pay off your student loans in under 10 years
• How to succeed in multi-level marketing
• The process of buying a car
• Tips for being an effective networker
• Traveling the world for cheap
• Why people lie

7 Legislation Informative Essay Topics

• Fees and taxes for an electric car
• Minimum wage laws
• The history of drinking age rules
• What dogs are affected by breed specific legislation?
• Anti-trust crimes.
• Benefits of pleading guilty.
• Felony penalties for aggravated stalking.

See this page for a full list of Legal Speech Topics .

10 Pop Culture Informative Essay Topics

• A biography of your favorite celebrity
• All about your favorite author
• All about your favorite television show
• Former childhood stars
• History of your favorite product brand
• Instances where the movie is better than the book
• The Miss America pageant
• The pop art movement during the 20th century and the changes it brought about
• What makes a pop sensation
• Your favorite form of public broadcasting

7 Relationships Informative Essay Topics

How to be a good friend

• How to choose your friends
• How to get along with your in-laws
• How to make a marriage work
• How to survive a blind date gone wrong
• The different types of friendships
• The history of online dating

Picking Your Topic

At first glance, an informative speech may seem like the simplest type of presentation . The basis of an informative speech is to introduce a topic to the audience and then describe or explain it . It sounds fairly straightforward, but special care must be given to selecting a topic or the entire speech may not be well received.

Informative speeches can easily become boring for an audience for several reasons. First, the speaker should be sure not to present a topic which is already well known, or the audience will quickly lose interest. The topic should be something the audience has never encountered, or at least include new and exciting information on a familiar topic. Speakers should remember, when preparing the speech, that their own level of interest will become apparent during delivery of the presentation. In other words, if the speaker is bored by the topic, the audience will feel bored as well.

Knowing the audience is a primary factor in choosing an informative speech topic. The speaker should consider the age, knowledge level, subculture, and other demographics of his listeners when preparing the speech. It is important to present information which is neither too elementary nor too difficult for the audience to comprehend. The chosen topic should reflect the interests of the audience, and should be intriguing to them without rehashing information they already know. For example, college students may be interested in a topic on alcohol use, but they are already very familiar with a topic like the dangers of drinking and driving. In this case the speaker might concentrate his topic on the health benefits of red wine. This way, he has chosen a topic which interests the audience, but is likely to present new information which will not bore his listeners.

Finally, speakers should consider time limits when choosing an informative speech topic. A topic should be covered thoroughly enough that the audience feels as if most of their questions on the topic have been answered. On the other hand, a tight time restriction may prevent the speaker from adequately covering a very intricate topic. When time is limited, a subject which requires lengthy explanation should be avoided. The audience should leave an informative speech feeling as if they’ve gained new insight on a topic. It is good if they are interested in doing their own research to learn more about the subject, but they should never leave the presentation feeling confused or unclear about what they have just heard.

Informative Speech Idea In 5 Steps

1. step one – make a list.

Make a short list of your personal interests and informative speech topic ideas. To help you determine your interests on an informative speech topic, think about your favorite objects, products, people, animals, events, places, processes, procedures, concepts, policies, theories, and so on. Answer these important questions:

• Is there something you love to talk about, always have wanted to research?
• What interests you very much, or do you like or love at first glance?
• Do you have developed special skills in personal or professional life?
• What interesting informative topics do you know a lot of or want to know more about?
• What are some personal or professional experiences and skills in certain situations related to your favorite subjects?
• Can you reveal hidden secrets, new perspectives or insights on some topics?

2. Step Two – Analyze Your Audience

Determine the interests and needs of your audience. What do they want to learn? Can you teach them on a subject you like?

3. Step Three – Check Your Interests

Review the short list of your interests and make a decision. Choose the informative speech topic that is also interesting to your audience. Take care of their interests, questions and needs.

4. Step Four – Research and Write

Research  just one new single aspect  of that informative speech idea. Look for valuable or amazing information that surprises your listeners. Fresh data, facts, intelligence, and advice will catch their attention immediately! To help you researching: look for new facts, figures, stories, statistics, surveys, personal experiences, professional experiences, quotations, comparisons and contrasts.

5. Step Five – Add Help Props

Demonstrate steps, stages, pros and cons, and remarkable effects by the use of public speaking software or other visual aids , that display the material you want them to be understood or remembered.

Informative Speeches FAQ

1. Speeches About Objects 2. Speeches About Processes 3. Speeches About Events 4. Speeches About Concepts

An informative speech is one that provides information and educates the audience on a specific topic. An informative speech should help your audience learn, understand, and remember information you are presenting.

1. Know your audience or reader 2. Consider your interests 3. Consider length requirements

You can see this page with speech examples .

Vote of Thanks Examples

613 Original Argumentative Speech Topics Ideas

15 thoughts on “509 Informative Speech Ideas and Topics”

Demonic Possession

Creativity is the Mother of Invention.

1-How to be a good friend: you have to do everything to make them happy, don’t snatch on them

2-How to choose your friends: Choose friends with similar values Choose friends with common goals

3-How to get along with your in-laws:1-Get to know them. … 2-Know your limits. … 3-Keep things cordial. … 4-Put your relationship first

4-How to make a marriage work

5-How to survive a blind date gone wrong 1-Ask open-ended questions. … 2-Tell a funny anecdote. … 3-Let your date talk. … 4-Answer questions fully. … 5-Listen to them carefully.

6-The different types of friendships

7-The history of online dating

the evolution of humans

school doesn’t need to exist

Nice compilations this is helpful

Hamburgers vs hotdogs

Chocolate Caffeine Grass is Greener on the other side April Fools Why teens should have a part time job or not

History of Tobacco

Effects of anxiety on teenage students.

how depression affects people and others around them

peer pressure and its effects on students

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depression and how it can effect a students mindset

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6 Speeches by American Authors for Secondary ELA Classrooms

• Lesson Plans
• Grading Students for Assessment
• Becoming A Teacher
• Assessments & Tests
• Elementary Education
• Special Education
• Homeschooling
• M.A., English, Western Connecticut State University
• B.S., Education, Southern Connecticut State University

American authors such as John Steinbeck and Toni Morrison are studied in the secondary ELA classroom for their short stories and their novels. Seldom, however, are students exposed to the speeches that have been given by these same authors. 

Giving students a speech by an author to analyze can help students better understand how each writer effectively meets his or her purpose using a different medium. Giving students speeches allows students the opportunity to compare an author's writing style between their fiction and their non-fiction writing. And giving students speeches to read or listen to also helps teachers  increase their students' background knowledge on these authors whose works are taught in middle and high schools .

Using a speech in the secondary classroom also meets the Common Core Literacy Standards for English Language Arts that require students to determine word meanings, appreciate the nuances of words, and steadily expand their range of words and phrases.  

The following six (6) speeches by famous American authors have been rated as to their length (minutes/# of words), readability score (grade level/reading ease) and at least one of the rhetorical devices used (author's style). All of the following speeches have links to audio or video where available.

"I decline to accept the end of man." William Faulkner

The Cold War was in full swing when William Faulkner accepted the Nobel Prize for Literature. Less than a minute into the speech , he posed the paralyzing question, "When will I be blown up?" In confronting the terrifying possibility of nuclear war, Faulkner answers his own rhetorical question by stating, "I decline to accept the end of man."

• Delivered by : William Faulkner Author of:  The Sound and the Fury ,  As I Lay Dying ,  Light in August ,  Absalom, Absalom! ,  A Rose for Emily
• Date : December 10, 1950 
• Location: Stockholm, Sweden
• Word Count:  557
• Readability  score :  Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease  66.5
• Grade Level : 9.8
• Minutes : 2:56 (audio selections here)
• Rhetorical device used:  Polysyndeton . This use of conjunctions between words or phrases or sentences elicits a feeling of energy and multiplicity that crescendos.

Faulkner slows the rhythm of the speech for emphasis:

...by reminding him of the courage  and  honor  and  hope  and  pride  and  compassion  and  pity  and  sacrifice which have been the glory of his past.

"Advice to Youth" Mark Twain

Mark Twain's legendary humor begins with his recollection of his 1st birthday contrasted with his 70th:

"I hadn't any hair, I hadn't any teeth, I hadn't any clothes. I had to go to my first banquet just like that."

Students can easily understand the satirical advice Twain is giving in each section of the essay through his use of irony, understatement, and exaggeration. 

• Delivered by : Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) Author of:  Adventures of Huckleberry Finn , The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
• Date : 1882
• Word Count:  2,467
• Readability  score :  Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease  74.8
• Grade Level : 8.1
• Minutes : highlights of this speech recreated by actor Val Kilmer 6:22 min
• Rhetorical device used:  Satire:  the technique employed by writers to expose and criticize foolishness and corruption of an individual or a society by using humor, irony, exaggeration or ridicule.

Here, Twain satirizes lying:

"Now as to the matter of lying. You want to be very careful about lying; otherwise you are nearly sure to get caught . Once caught, you can never again be in the eyes to the good and the pure, what you were before. Many a young person has injured himself permanently through a single clumsy and ill finished lie, the result of carelessness born of incomplete training."

"I have spoken too long for a writer." Ernest Hemingway

Ernest Hemingway was unable to attend the Nobel Prize for Literature Ceremony because of serious injuries sustained in two airplane crashes in Africa during a safari. He did have this short speech read for him by United States Ambassador to Sweden, John C. Cabot.

• Delivered by : Author of:  The Sun Also Rises ,  A Farewell to Arms ,  For Whom the Bell Tolls ,  The Old Man and the Sea
• Date : December 10, 1954
• Word Count:  336
• Readability  score :  Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease  68.8
• Grade Level : 8.8
• Minutes : 3 minutes (excerpts listen here)
• Rhetorical device used: litotes  a means to build ethos, or character by intentionally downplaying one’s accomplishments to show modesty in order to gain the favor of the audience.

The speech is filled with litote-like constructions, starting with this opening: 

"Having no facility for speech-making and no command of oratory nor any domination of rhetoric, I wish to thank the administrators of the generosity of Alfred Nobel for this Prize."

"Once upon a time there was an old woman." Toni Morrison

Toni Morrison is known for her literary efforts to recreate the power of the African American's language through novels to preserve that cultural tradition. In her poetic lecture to the Nobel Prize Committee, Morrison offered a fable of an old woman (writer) and a bird (language) that illustrated her literary opinions: language can die; language can be become the controlling tool of others. 

• Author of:  Beloved ,  Song of Solomon ,  The Bluest Eye
• Date : December 7, 1993
• Word Count:  2,987
• Readability  score :  Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease  69.7
• Grade Level : 8.7
• Minutes : 33 minutes  audio
• Rhetorical device used:  Asyndeton  Figure of omission in which normally occurring conjunctions (and, or, but, for, nor, so, yet) are intentionally omitted in successive phrases, or clauses; a string of words not separated by normally occurring conjunctions.

The multiple asyndetons speed up the rhythm of her speech:

"Language can never 'pin down' slavery, genocide, war. "

"The vitality of language lies in its ability to limn the actual, imagined and possible lives of its speakers, readers, writers. "

"-and the Word is with Men." John Steinbeck

Like other authors who were writing during the Cold War, John Steinbeck recognized the potential for destruction that man had developed with increasingly powerful weapons. In his Nobel Prize acceptance speech, he expresses his concern stating, "We have usurped many of the powers we once ascribed to God."

• Author of:  Of Mice and Men ,  The Grapes of Wrath ,  East of Eden  
• Date : December 7, 1962
• Word Count:  852
• Readability  score :  Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease  60.1
• Grade Level : 10.4
• Minutes : 3:00 minutes   video of speech
• Rhetorical device used: Allusion :a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing or idea of historical, cultural, literary or political significance. 

Steinbeck alludes to the opening line in the New Testament's Gospel of John:1-   In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (RSV)

"In the end is the Word, and the Word is Man - and the Word is with Men."

"A Left-Handed Commencement Address" Ursula LeGuin

The author Ursula Le Guin uses science fiction and fantasy genres to creatively explore psychology, culture, and society. Many of her short stories are in classroom anthologies. In an interview in 2014 about these genres, she noted: 

" ... the task of science fiction is not to predict the future. Rather, it contemplates possible futures."

This commencement address was given at Mills College, a liberal arts woman's college, she spoke about confronting "the male power hierarchy" by "going our own way." The speech is ranked #82 out of 100 of America's Top Speeches.

• Delivered by : Ursula LeGuin
• Author of:  The Lathe of Heaven ,  A Wizard of Earthsea ,  The Left Hand of Darkness ,  The Dispossessed
• Date : 22 May 1983,
• Location: Mills College, Oakland, California
• Word Count:  1,233
• Readability  score :  Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease  75.8
• Grade Level : 7.4
• Minutes :5:43
• Rhetorical device used:  Parallelism is the use of components in a sentence that are grammatically the same; or similar in their construction, sound, meaning or meter.

I hope you tell them to go to hell and while they’re going to give you equal pay for equal time. I hope you live without the need to dominate, and without the need to be dominated. I hope you are never victims, but I hope you have no power over other people.

• American Author Maps: Informational Texts in the English Classroom
• High School English Curricula Explained
• Cross-Curricular Connections in Instruction
• 20th Century American Speeches as Literary Texts
• 10 Test Question Terms and What They Ask Students to Do
• 10 Great American Speeches for the 7-12 Classroom
• Use Social Media to Teach Ethos, Pathos and Logos
• Rubric Template Samples for Teachers
• The Whys and How-tos for Group Writing in All Content Areas
• T.E.S.T. Season for Grades 7-12
• Writing a Lesson Plan: Guided Practice
• How to Teach Theme
• Voting Rights Background for Students
• Idioms Used in Elections
• 5 Novel Setting Maps for Classic American Literature
• Finding Text Complexity in a Three-Word Poem

COMM B1: Informative Speeches: Citing Sources Orally

• Finding Articles
• Finding Websites
• Citing Sources Orally
• Other Helpful LibGuides

What Are Oral Citations?

Oral citations : When you are delivering your speeches, you should plan on telling the audience the source(s) of your information while you are speaking. (from James Madison University Communication Center )

A good speech should be well-researched, and many times you will be using facts, statistics, quotes, or opinions from others throughout. If you do not cite your sources orally, this can be considered plagiarism and is unethical. This applies to direct quotations, paraphrasing, and summarizing. You must orally cite, even if you will be providing a bibliography,  works cited, or reference list to your instructor.  (adapted from Sante Fe College Oral Citation LibGuide )

Why Cite Your Sources During a Speech?

(adapted from College of Southern Nevada's Oral Citation LibGuide )

CREDIBILITY

An oral citation conveys the reliability, validity and currency of your information. Citing your sources orally lets your audience know that you have researched your topic.  The stronger your sources are, the stronger your credibility will be.

Bakersfield College’s Student Academic Integrity Policy defines plagiarism as “ the act of using the ideas or work of another person or persons as if they were one's own, without giving credit to the source.” This policy, along with Bakersfield College’s Student Code of  Conduct, Code #15 , prohibit plagiarism.

Failure to provide an oral citation is considered a form of plagiarism, even if you cite your sources in a written outline, bibliography, works cited page or list of references.

When you are delivering a speech, you must provide an oral citation for any words, information or ideas that are not your own.  

When Do You Cite Sources in a Speech?

(adapted from Gateway Community and Technical College COM 181 LibGuide )

• Oral citations will always be in a narrative style; you mention citation details about the work as part of your presentation.
• Place the citation before the information to give weight and authority to what you're about to say.
• You must cite words or ideas that come from another person or you will be plagiarizing their work!
• When you are providing information that is not commonly known, such as statistics, expert opinions, or study results.
• Whenever you use a direct quotation. 
• If you are unsure if a citation is required, be safe and cite the source.

Citing Sources in a Speech Video

How Do You Cite Sources in a Speech?

The best practice is to provide a full oral citation that would include the author(s) (assuming that is available), the name of the publication, the specific publication date and year, and any other pertinent information.  How you cite your information should highlight the most important aspects of that citation (e.g., we may not know who “Dr. Smith” is, but if Dr. Smith is identified as a lead researcher of race relations at New York University, the citation will take on more credibility).    (adapted from Tips for Oral Citations from Eastern Illinois University )

(adapted from  Gateway Community and Technical College COM 181 LibGuide )

The first mention of a work should include all citation elements; subsequent mentions of that work only require the author as long as source attribution remains clear (i.e. you have not used a different source in intervening narrative).

What are the elements of an oral citation.

• If the source might not be recognized by your listeners, add a comment to help establish its credibility. 
• Include enough detail to help your listener locate the work later.
• Do give the full date in citations that refer to newspaper or magazine articles.
• Particularly important if there are statistics or data that change over time.
• Mention the publication year for books and journals.
• If there is there is no date, as with some websites, state the date that you accessed the material.
• Also indicate the Author's credentials (why they are an authority on the subject).
• If there are two authors, use both names in your citation.
• If there are more than two authors, name the first author and use "and associates" or "and colleagues".
• If the full title is long, use a shortened version that makes sense and still communicates enough information for your listener to locate the work.

How do I orally cite a quotation?

• You should make in clear that you are directly quoting another person rather than paraphrasing or summarizing their work. You can use a signal phrase like "... and I quote" or "As Jonas said..." to introduce the cited material.

Examples of Oral Citations in a Speech

(adapted from Tips for Oral Citations from Eastern Illinois University )

For a magazine article

“According to an article by Ben Elgin in the February 20th, 2006 issue of Business Week, we can expect Google and Yahoo’s supremacy as the search engine giants to be challenged by new U.S. startups.  Elgin reports that  …”

 “As reported in the February 20th, 2006 issue of Business Week, many new companies are getting into the search engine business. This article explains that …”

 “A February 20th, 2006 Business Week article reported that Google and Yahoo will face stiff competition in the search engine business …” 

For a newspaper article

“On February 22nd, 2006, USA Today reported that …”

 “An article about the effects of global warming appeared in the February 22nd edition of USA Today. Todd Smith’s report focused on the alarming rate of …”

“An article on global warming that appeared in the February 22nd issue of USA Today sounded the alarm …”

For a website 

“On January 12. 2019, I visited the “Earthquakes” page of www.ready.gov , the website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. businesses and citizens …”

“According to the Earthquakes page on U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s website, …”

“Helpful information about business continuity planning can be found on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s website, located at www.ready.gov …”

“On January 12, 2019, I consulted the website maintained by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to learn more about what businesses should do to plan for an emergency.  In the section entitled ‘Plan to stay in business,’ several recommendations for maintaining continuity of business operations were offered.  These suggestions included …”

For a journal article

“A study published on December 12, 2004, in the Journal of Applied Social Psychology reported that incidents of workplace aggression have increased …”

“Research conducted by Dr. Bailey and Dr. Cross at Stanford University found that incidents of workplace aggression have increased over the past five years.  Their 2004 study published in the Journal of Applied Social Psychology in December of that year reported that …”

“According to a December, 2004 study published in the Journal of Applied Social Psychology, …”

“A December 2004 study by Bailey and Cross in the Journal of Applied Social Psychology, …”

“In a December, 2004 study published in Journal of Applied Social Psychology, Bailey and Cross reported that …”

“A December 2004 study by Stanford University researchers found that incidents of workplace aggression …”

“Bailey and Cross, experts in workplace aggression, authored a study that shows that incidents of aggression in the workplace are increasing.  Their December 2004 Journal of Applied Social Psychology article reports that …”

“In her 2005 book, Good Health at Any Age, Dr. Gabriella Campos describes how we can maintain our health through healthy eating.  She recommends …”

“Gabriella Campos, an expert in nutrition, describes what is needed to maintain a healthy diet in her 2005 book Good Health at Any Age.  She contends that …”

“In her recent book, Good Health at Any Age, Dr. Gabriella Campos recommends …”

“In Good Health at Any Age, Dr. Gabriella Campos, an expert in nutrition, offers suggestions for …”

For a television program

“On February 21, 2021, our local PBS station aired a program called “The Insurgency.”  In this program …”

“According to “The Insurgency,” a Frontline program aired by PBS on February 21st,2021 ….”

• “Frontline, a PBS program, focused on the Iraq War in the television program entitled “The Insurgency.”  This show aired on February 21, 2021, and focused on the problems confronting …”

For a YouTube video

“The Children and Young People’s Well-being Service, a branch of the UK National Health Service, uploaded Getting a Good Night’s Sleep–Top Tips for Teens to Youtube on January 7, 2021. In the video, they explain that caffeine is a stimulant and we will get better sleep if we avoid it for at least 6 hours before bedtime.”

“Nemours Foundation is non-profit organization established in 1936,dedicated to improving children’s health. In their How to help your teens get enough sleep video, uploaded to Youtube on July 6, 2022 they explain that teens’ body clocks change during puberty and teens naturally fall asleep later at night, which often leads to sleep depravation.”

For a personal interview

“On February 20th I conducted a personal interview with Dr. Desiree Ortez, a psychology professor here at Eastern, to learn more about student responses to peer pressure. Dr. Ortez told me that …”

“I conducted an interview with Dr. Desiree Ortez, a psychology professor at Eastern Illinois University, and learned that peer pressure is a big problem for university students.”

“In an interview, I conducted with Dr. Desiree Ortez, a psychology professor, I learned that …”

“I met with Dr. Desiree Ortez, a psychology professor here at Eastern, to learn more about …   She told me that peer pressure is a major factor contributing to academic failure in college.”

“In a telephone interview I conducted with Dr. Forest Wiley, a gerontology professor at University of Illinois, I learned that the elderly are likely to feel ...”

“I emailed Dr. Forest Wiley, a gerontology professor at the University of Illinois, to get additional information on his research on the aging’s use of the Internet.  He told me  …”

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