CHAPTER 5

Selecting a Topic and Purpose

What Do I Already Know That I Can Share With My Audience?

When thinking about a potential topic, first think about your own knowledge and experience. What is something that you know a lot about that your audience may not? Have you had a lot of experience with something that your audience may not have? Is there a significant event in your life that people would be interested in hearing about? Do you currently volunteer somewhere and would like others to as well?

Key Terms

General Purpose
Central Idea
Specific Purpose
Speech Occassion
Authentic Topic