October 6, Wednesday: 1. Choose a general topic, then do enough preliminary research to be sure there is enough information available. Learn enough about the topic to write a strong, focused purpose statement. A purpose statement tells in one sentence what your speech is about. Not, “my speech is about Bob Marley,” but “My speech will inform the audience of how Bob Marley uses Jamaica’s history in his music” or “My speech will inform the audience of how American pop music has been influenced by Bob Marley.”

Thursday: Turn in a purpose statement at the beginning of the period.

In class, begin research. Gather information that fits the purpose statement. Create a bibliographic citation on a card or sheet of paper for each source. Write down or copy information that you may use. You will need 10 notes from at least 3 sources.

Friday, continue research. By the end of the period, you should have a purpose statement, and at least 10 notes from at least 3 speeches. Optional: Work on book reports (due October 16) Book Report Form

Monday: Hand in your notes at the beginning of the period.

In class, organize your notes into 3-5 main topics. Use these as the basis of a detailed outline. Each main point should be expressed as a complete sentence. The main topics should be expressed in parallel form.

Tuesday, write transitions between each main point. Write an introduction and conclusion. In the evening, rehearse your speech in front of a parent or guardian. Make revisions after your rehearsal, improving the rhythm and the naturalness of your text.

Wednesday: Hand in your outlines at the beginning of the period. Bring novels to class to read.  Rehearse your speech with someone at home.

Thursday: Rehearse your speech in class with a partner.

Rehearse! Rehearse! Rehearse!