SPC 101: Fundamentals of Oral Communication Learning Unit 4: Assignment

Page 1 of 2

Informative Speech – Person, Place, Event, or Invention

You will present a speech in which you choose a person, place, event or invention which you believe has

had significant impact upon the world. Conduct adequate research to gather information on your topic.

Research the background on the person, place, event, or invention, including history and significance,

and highlight the impact on the world. Some topics may fit a combination of person, place, event, or

invention. Some examples would be, Anne Frank AND WWII, Nikola Tesla AND electricity, Woodstock

AND Vietnam War.

Instructions:

A. Include in oral footnotes, a minimum of five sources, preferably from at least three different

types of materials (book, magazine, interview, internet, etc.). Note: Wikipedia is NOT a quality

source. Please use the library databases.

B. Include at least three kinds of supporting materials: definition, description, statistics, etc.

C. Create a formal outline and works cited sheet for your presentation (use MLA or APA format).

Submit this into the location provided.

D. Include visual aid to enhance the speech. PowerPoint is an option for the visual aid, but it should

emphasize visual images, not text. Be sure to cite your source on the PowerPoint slide for the

image.

E. Time Frame: 6-7 minutes

F. Delivery should be extemporaneous: You may use a key-word outline while you speak. You may

write out quotes on your outline so you do not misquote someone. You may also write out your

sources of information so you don’t forget to cite them. Indicate in your outline where you will

show your visual aid. Speaking from a manuscript rather than an outline will result in a

lower grade.

G. Record your speech in front of 3-4 adults (show them at the start of your recording). You may

use a digital camera or the video function on your cell phone.

H. Upload your speech to YouTube. Once your video has been uploaded, copy the link and paste it

into the discussion forum provided. Then, watch other classmate’s videos and give honest,

insightful, and respectful feedback.

Grading reflects:

 Organization (Attention-getting intro, well developed body, a conclusion that really concludes
your speech)

 Supporting Materials from Quality Sources

SPC 101: Fundamentals of Oral Communication Learning Unit 4: Assignment

Page 2 of 2

 Oral Footnotes

 Delivery

 Visual Aid(s)

 Use of Language

Grade:

50 points for speech

20 points for outline and works cited (preparation and planning)

Remember: Please record your speech in front of 3-4 adults who will serve as your audience. Be sure

to show your audience on the recording at the beginning and the ending of your presentation – the rest

of the time the camera should be showing your upper body (from head to waist). Please stand during

your presentation! You can use a music stand or table to hold your notes and visual aid if you want.

Upon completion, upload your speech to the appropriate location, as specified by your instructor!

© Jennifer Boyenga and Indian Hills Community College