how to write speech critique

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It Ends With Us Stars Respond to Fan Backlash

2024-08-12 a pedantic review of the las vegas loop, elon musk’s latest ai chatbot is happy to spit out the kinds of images its rivals refuse to. that could give it an edge — and go very wrong, gena rowlands, ‘the notebook’ and ‘a woman under the influence’ star, dies at 94, elon musk and j.k. rowling are named in olympian’s cyberbullying lawsuit, product review of 2024 chevrolet traverse, product review of 2024 mercedes-amg glc-class, product review of 2026 fisker pear, product review of 2025 fisker alaska, product review of 2026 fisker rōnin, 13 ways to critique a speech.

Introduction:

Public speaking is an essential skill that can be honed and improved through practice, feedback, and constructive criticism. This article aims to provide you with 13 effective ways to critique a speech, so you can help others sharpen their public speaking capabilities.

1. Analyze The Structure

Examine the beginning, middle, and end of the speaker’s speech. Well-structured speeches should have a catchy introduction, logical flow of ideas, and a strong conclusion.

2. Focus on Delivery

Take note of body language, posture, eye contact, and gesture usage. A successful speech must have clear pronunciation, proper tone variation, pauses where needed, and suitable facial expressions.

3. Gauge Audience Engagement

Observe the audience’s reaction during the speech. Note if they appear interested or not. A good speech captivates its audience.

4. Evaluate Vocal Variety

Assess whether the speaker uses different pitch levels, pausing techniques, and rhythm patterns that make content engaging to listen to.

5. Check for Clarity & Brevity

A good speech must convey its message clearly without being overly complicated or too long.

6. Examine Visual Aids

Review the visual aids used in the presentation and their effectiveness in conveying information and supporting key points.

7. Identify Purpose & Goals

Determine if the speaker effectively conveyed the purpose of their speech and achieved their desired outcome.

8. Evaluate Use of Humor

Note if humor was used appropriately and contributed positively to the overall presentation.

9. Consider Emotional Appeal

Assess whether the speech effectively connected on an emotional level with the audience through storytelling or emotive language that supports key messages.

10. Reflect on Facts & Data Used

Examine how well facts were used and how they supported main points while checking for accuracy and sources of information presented.

11. Suggest Improvement Areas

Identify any weak points in the speaker’s speech that could be improved, such as content organization, language used, visual aids, or delivery techniques.

12. Highlight Strengths

Ensure you point out strengths in the speaker’s performance to encourage and reinforce good habits.

13. Provide Constructive Feedback

Share your observations with the speaker in an empathetic manner and offer specific suggestions on how they can improve while acknowledging their effort and achievements.

Conclusion:

By examining these 13 areas of critique when evaluating someone’s speech, you will be able to provide valuable insights and suggestions for improvement. Remember that effective critiques are constructive and aim to help the speaker become better at public speaking by learning from experience.

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How to Write a Critical Analysis of a Speech

How to Set Up a Rhetorical Analysis

Whether you’re a student or a seasoned professional, the ability to critically analyze a speech is an essential skill for speakers. Understanding the components of a speech and what makes those components successful can help you deliver a speech that your audience finds engaging and enlightening.

Understanding the Different Types of Speeches

When critiquing a speech, you first need to understand the objective of the speech. There are three primary types of speeches: to inform, to persuade or to entertain. Informative speeches are typically rooted in facts and statistics or focus on “how-to” topics. For instance, many TED Talks are informative speeches.

Persuasive speeches also use facts and statistics but use that information to convince an audience to change their behavior or take a certain action. Finally, speeches that are meant to entertain are often those delivered at weddings or social gatherings. They’re often funny or self-deprecating and are populated with anecdotes.

Know Your Audience

Another critical aspect of speech analysis is understanding the audience. Is this a formal setting where your audience expects a serious, informative tone? Is the audience a group of people who are impassioned about a particular subject and could be hostile if you’re trying to change their minds? Is your audience an informal gathering of people who expect a light-hearted or amusing delivery?

You wouldn’t have a person with no sense of humor host a convention for comedians. Likewise, you wouldn’t have a comedian lead a convention for physicians who are discussing breakthroughs in cancer research. Knowing your audience can mean the difference between a successful speech and one that fails.

Know What You’re Analyzing

Once you know the objective of the speech, you’ll need to know what to analyze. In "Rhetoric," ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle wrote that all great speeches share three pillars of rhetoric: logos, pathos and ethos.

While typically applied to persuasive speeches, these three elements are critical for any speech. Logos is the meaning, the reasoning and the logical evidence the speaker uses. Pathos is the words, phrases and personal stories a speaker uses to elicit emotion, and ethos is the credibility and trustworthiness of the speaker. In other words, does the speaker have expertise in this particular subject?

Evaluating a Speech

Critical speech analysis should revolve around the three pillars. As you analyze, you’ll need to determine whether the speech maker is using enough facts and logical evidence to establish credibility.

For instance, if a speaker is delivering information on protecting the environment, is he using credibly sourced facts to support his statements, or is he speaking in generalities? Is he using words, phrases and personal anecdotes that elicit emotion from the audience, or is he using vague words that have no emotional impact?

Finally, through education or background, is the speaker qualified to be speaking on this particular subject? Is she passionate about the subject, or is she coming across as a boring, monotone speaker? Is she using appropriate gestures and body language? Is her voice clear and loud enough to be heard? Finally, is her tone appropriate for the audience?

Use a Speech Analysis Rubric

A rubric can be an effective tool to help you analyze a speech, as it can help you assign a numeric value to each specific component of a speech. If you’re analyzing a speech for a classroom assignment, you’ll likely be given a rubric from which to work. If not, you can easily find one online by searching for “critical speech analysis rubric.”

Many readily available rubrics focus on aspects of Aristotle’s rhetoric by addressing a speech’s structure, format, research, delivery and style and will help you determine whether the speech was appropriate for its particular audience and met its overarching goals.

How to Write an Analysis of a Speech

If you’re working on the critical analysis of a speech for a class assignment, you’ll likely need to complete a written assignment to accompany your assessment. As with any other essay, a written analysis of a speech should include a strong introduction and clear thesis statement, several body paragraphs with topic sentences and strong transitions that clearly support your analysis and an effective conclusion that summarizes your critique.

Be sure that the essay is free of grammar and spelling mistakes and typos. As with any piece of writing, it’s always helpful to have another person review it before you publish it or submit it for a grade.

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Jennifer Brozak earned her state teaching certificate in Secondary English and Communications from St. Vincent College in Latrobe, Pa., and her bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Pittsburgh. A former high school English teacher, Jennifer enjoys writing articles about parenting and education and has contributed to Reader's Digest, Mamapedia, Shmoop and more.

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• How to write a rhetorical analysis | Key concepts & examples

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis | Key Concepts & Examples

Published on August 28, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

A rhetorical analysis is a type of essay  that looks at a text in terms of rhetoric. This means it is less concerned with what the author is saying than with how they say it: their goals, techniques, and appeals to the audience.

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Table of contents

Key concepts in rhetoric, analyzing the text, introducing your rhetorical analysis, the body: doing the analysis, concluding a rhetorical analysis, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about rhetorical analysis.

Rhetoric, the art of effective speaking and writing, is a subject that trains you to look at texts, arguments and speeches in terms of how they are designed to persuade the audience. This section introduces a few of the key concepts of this field.

Appeals: Logos, ethos, pathos

Appeals are how the author convinces their audience. Three central appeals are discussed in rhetoric, established by the philosopher Aristotle and sometimes called the rhetorical triangle: logos, ethos, and pathos.

Logos , or the logical appeal, refers to the use of reasoned argument to persuade. This is the dominant approach in academic writing , where arguments are built up using reasoning and evidence.

Ethos , or the ethical appeal, involves the author presenting themselves as an authority on their subject. For example, someone making a moral argument might highlight their own morally admirable behavior; someone speaking about a technical subject might present themselves as an expert by mentioning their qualifications.

Pathos , or the pathetic appeal, evokes the audience’s emotions. This might involve speaking in a passionate way, employing vivid imagery, or trying to provoke anger, sympathy, or any other emotional response in the audience.

These three appeals are all treated as integral parts of rhetoric, and a given author may combine all three of them to convince their audience.

Text and context

In rhetoric, a text is not necessarily a piece of writing (though it may be this). A text is whatever piece of communication you are analyzing. This could be, for example, a speech, an advertisement, or a satirical image.

In these cases, your analysis would focus on more than just language—you might look at visual or sonic elements of the text too.

The context is everything surrounding the text: Who is the author (or speaker, designer, etc.)? Who is their (intended or actual) audience? When and where was the text produced, and for what purpose?

Looking at the context can help to inform your rhetorical analysis. For example, Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech has universal power, but the context of the civil rights movement is an important part of understanding why.

Claims, supports, and warrants

A piece of rhetoric is always making some sort of argument, whether it’s a very clearly defined and logical one (e.g. in a philosophy essay) or one that the reader has to infer (e.g. in a satirical article). These arguments are built up with claims, supports, and warrants.

A claim is the fact or idea the author wants to convince the reader of. An argument might center on a single claim, or be built up out of many. Claims are usually explicitly stated, but they may also just be implied in some kinds of text.

The author uses supports to back up each claim they make. These might range from hard evidence to emotional appeals—anything that is used to convince the reader to accept a claim.

The warrant is the logic or assumption that connects a support with a claim. Outside of quite formal argumentation, the warrant is often unstated—the author assumes their audience will understand the connection without it. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still explore the implicit warrant in these cases.

For example, look at the following statement:

We can see a claim and a support here, but the warrant is implicit. Here, the warrant is the assumption that more likeable candidates would have inspired greater turnout. We might be more or less convinced by the argument depending on whether we think this is a fair assumption.

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Rhetorical analysis isn’t a matter of choosing concepts in advance and applying them to a text. Instead, it starts with looking at the text in detail and asking the appropriate questions about how it works:

• What is the author’s purpose?
• Do they focus closely on their key claims, or do they discuss various topics?
• What tone do they take—angry or sympathetic? Personal or authoritative? Formal or informal?
• Who seems to be the intended audience? Is this audience likely to be successfully reached and convinced?
• What kinds of evidence are presented?

By asking these questions, you’ll discover the various rhetorical devices the text uses. Don’t feel that you have to cram in every rhetorical term you know—focus on those that are most important to the text.

The following sections show how to write the different parts of a rhetorical analysis.

Like all essays, a rhetorical analysis begins with an introduction . The introduction tells readers what text you’ll be discussing, provides relevant background information, and presents your thesis statement .

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how an introduction works.

Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech is widely regarded as one of the most important pieces of oratory in American history. Delivered in 1963 to thousands of civil rights activists outside the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., the speech has come to symbolize the spirit of the civil rights movement and even to function as a major part of the American national myth. This rhetorical analysis argues that King’s assumption of the prophetic voice, amplified by the historic size of his audience, creates a powerful sense of ethos that has retained its inspirational power over the years.

The body of your rhetorical analysis is where you’ll tackle the text directly. It’s often divided into three paragraphs, although it may be more in a longer essay.

Each paragraph should focus on a different element of the text, and they should all contribute to your overall argument for your thesis statement.

Hover over the example to explore how a typical body paragraph is constructed.

King’s speech is infused with prophetic language throughout. Even before the famous “dream” part of the speech, King’s language consistently strikes a prophetic tone. He refers to the Lincoln Memorial as a “hallowed spot” and speaks of rising “from the dark and desolate valley of segregation” to “make justice a reality for all of God’s children.” The assumption of this prophetic voice constitutes the text’s strongest ethical appeal; after linking himself with political figures like Lincoln and the Founding Fathers, King’s ethos adopts a distinctly religious tone, recalling Biblical prophets and preachers of change from across history. This adds significant force to his words; standing before an audience of hundreds of thousands, he states not just what the future should be, but what it will be: “The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.” This warning is almost apocalyptic in tone, though it concludes with the positive image of the “bright day of justice.” The power of King’s rhetoric thus stems not only from the pathos of his vision of a brighter future, but from the ethos of the prophetic voice he adopts in expressing this vision.

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The conclusion of a rhetorical analysis wraps up the essay by restating the main argument and showing how it has been developed by your analysis. It may also try to link the text, and your analysis of it, with broader concerns.

Explore the example below to get a sense of the conclusion.

It is clear from this analysis that the effectiveness of King’s rhetoric stems less from the pathetic appeal of his utopian “dream” than it does from the ethos he carefully constructs to give force to his statements. By framing contemporary upheavals as part of a prophecy whose fulfillment will result in the better future he imagines, King ensures not only the effectiveness of his words in the moment but their continuing resonance today. Even if we have not yet achieved King’s dream, we cannot deny the role his words played in setting us on the path toward it.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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The goal of a rhetorical analysis is to explain the effect a piece of writing or oratory has on its audience, how successful it is, and the devices and appeals it uses to achieve its goals.

Unlike a standard argumentative essay , it’s less about taking a position on the arguments presented, and more about exploring how they are constructed.

The term “text” in a rhetorical analysis essay refers to whatever object you’re analyzing. It’s frequently a piece of writing or a speech, but it doesn’t have to be. For example, you could also treat an advertisement or political cartoon as a text.

Logos appeals to the audience’s reason, building up logical arguments . Ethos appeals to the speaker’s status or authority, making the audience more likely to trust them. Pathos appeals to the emotions, trying to make the audience feel angry or sympathetic, for example.

Collectively, these three appeals are sometimes called the rhetorical triangle . They are central to rhetorical analysis , though a piece of rhetoric might not necessarily use all of them.

In rhetorical analysis , a claim is something the author wants the audience to believe. A support is the evidence or appeal they use to convince the reader to believe the claim. A warrant is the (often implicit) assumption that links the support with the claim.

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How to Properly Write a Review of a Speech

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Speeches are integral to our history and modern society, often influencing political, social, and cultural narratives. Whether you're an academic, journalist, or curious reader, writing a detailed speech review can provide context, elucidate themes, and assess its potential impact.

Below is an exhaustive guide on writing a compelling and nuanced speech review.

Understand the Context

Grasping the context in which a speech is delivered sets the foundation for any review. It offers layers of understanding, enabling the reviewer to appreciate the discourse's nuances better.

Consider the Speaker's Background

Every speaker brings unique experiences, ideologies, and motivations to the podium. By researching the speaker's background, you gain insight into possible biases, reference points, and underlying intentions.

What might seem like a passing comment to one could be a profoundly significant statement based on the speaker's history. Delve into their past speeches, writings, and actions to uncover patterns that might recur in the current speech.

Event and Audience Analysis

The venue and audience can significantly influence the tone and content of a speech. Addressing college students at graduation differs vastly from speaking to world leaders at a summit. Understanding this dynamic allows you to gauge the speech's appropriateness. Was it tailored to resonate with its intended listeners? Did it address their concerns and aspirations?

Evaluate the Content

Content is the core of any speech. It carries the message, drives arguments, and aims to persuade or inform. Breaking it down methodically allows for a granular and thorough review.

Key Themes and Arguments

Most speeches revolve around central themes or arguments, and identifying these is paramount. Are these themes relevant to the prevailing socio-political environment? How well does the speaker articulate their arguments?

Moreover, in this digital age, it's not uncommon for listeners to turn to platforms like realreviews.io to gauge public sentiment and verify specific points or arguments made in these speeches.

Making an informed opinion is always recommended by leveraging the best resources available. By cross-referencing these points with facts and established knowledge, one can help assess their validity. Furthermore, a lot of platforms can indicate whether the speaker offers a fresh perspective or merely rehashes well-trodden narratives.

Language and Tone

The choice of words, the tone, and even the nuances in a speech can be revealing. A speech riddled with terminology might alienate a lay audience. At the same time, a too-casual tone might come off as inappropriate in a formal setting.

Is the language inclusive, or does it alienate certain groups? Rhetorical devices from analogies to metaphors can enhance a speech's appeal but can also be misleading. Assessing how these elements play out can provide depth to your review.

Analyze Delivery and Presentation

Even the most compelling content can be undone by lackluster delivery. How a speech is presented can influence its reception and overall impact.

Body Language and Non-Verbal Cues

Body language plays a subtle yet potent role in communication. From facial expressions to posture, non-verbal cues can reinforce or undermine spoken words.

For instance, a speaker constantly looking at their notes might come off as ill-prepared. At the same time, direct eye contact can exude confidence. It's essential to note these cues as they contribute to the overall effectiveness and authenticity of the speech.

Voice Modulation and Pace

A monotone delivery can render even the most powerful content ineffective. Great orators utilize voice modulation, varying their pitch and volume to emphasize points and maintain audience engagement.

The pace of delivery also matters. Rapid speech might convey nervousness, while a deliberate, slow pace might be used for emphasis. A well-timed pause can allow the audience to absorb a crucial point.

Assess the Impact and Relevance

Ultimately, the true measure of a speech's success is its impact and continued relevance. Was the audience moved, inspired, or merely informed?

Audience Reaction

Audience engagement is a direct indicator of a speech's effectiveness. Did the listeners respond with rapt attention, or were there moments of distraction?

Applause, standing ovations, or even silent contemplation can be signs of a successful speech. Conversely, visible disinterest or disagreement from the audience can signify missed marks.

Relevance to Current Events

In today's dynamic world, speeches that touch on current events and pressing issues resonate more. Did the speech offer insights into ongoing debates? Was it forward-thinking, or did it cling to outdated notions? Evaluating its relevance ensures the review remains contemporary and insightful.

Summarize and Conclude

After dissecting and analyzing every facet of the speech, it's essential to bring it all together cohesively. Summarize the key points, reiterate its strengths and weaknesses, and offer a verdict.

Your conclusion should encapsulate the essence of your analysis, providing readers with a clear perspective on the speech's significance. Was it a groundbreaking oratory masterpiece, or did it fall short of expectations?

In public speaking, a speech can inspire change, provoke thought, or even rewrite history. Thus, writing a comprehensive review of such an endeavor is not just an academic exercise but a testament to the power of words and ideas.

By following the guidelines outlined above, one can craft an insightful and enlightening review, capturing the essence of the spoken word in written form.

Tips on How to Engage People in Your Public Speeches

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How to write a critique

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Before you start writing, it is important to have a thorough understanding of the work that will be critiqued.

• Study the work under discussion.
• Make notes on key parts of the work.
• Develop an understanding of the main argument or purpose being expressed in the work.
• Consider how the work relates to a broader issue or context.

Example template

There are a variety of ways to structure a critique. You should always check your unit materials or Canvas site for guidance from your lecturer. The following template, which showcases the main features of a critique, is provided as one example.

Introduction

Typically, the introduction is short (less than 10% of the word length) and you should:

• name the work being reviewed as well as the date it was created and the name of the author/creator
• describe the main argument or purpose of the work
• explain the context in which the work was created - this could include the social or political context, the place of the work in a creative or academic tradition, or the relationship between the work and the creator’s life experience
• have a concluding sentence that signposts what your evaluation of the work will be - for instance, it may indicate whether it is a positive, negative, or mixed evaluation.

Briefly summarise the main points and objectively describe how the creator portrays these by using techniques, styles, media, characters or symbols. This summary should not be the focus of the critique and is usually shorter than the critical evaluation.

Critical evaluation

This section should give a systematic and detailed assessment of the different elements of the work, evaluating how well the creator was able to achieve the purpose through these. For example: you would assess the plot structure, characterisation and setting of a novel; an assessment of a painting would look at composition, brush strokes, colour and light; a critique of a research project would look at subject selection, design of the experiment, analysis of data and conclusions.

A critical evaluation does not simply highlight negative impressions. It should deconstruct the work and identify both strengths and weaknesses. It should examine the work and evaluate its success, in light of its purpose.

Examples of key critical questions that could help your assessment include:

• Who is the creator? Is the work presented objectively or subjectively?
• What are the aims of the work? Were the aims achieved?
• What techniques, styles, media were used in the work? Are they effective in portraying the purpose?
• What assumptions underlie the work? Do they affect its validity?
• What types of evidence or persuasion are used? Has evidence been interpreted fairly?
• How is the work structured? Does it favour a particular interpretation or point of view? Is it effective?
• Does the work enhance understanding of key ideas or theories? Does the work engage (or fail to engage) with key concepts or other works in its discipline?

This evaluation is written in formal academic style and logically presented. Group and order your ideas into paragraphs. Start with the broad impressions first and then move into the details of the technical elements. For shorter critiques, you may discuss the strengths of the works, and then the weaknesses. In longer critiques, you may wish to discuss the positive and negative of each key critical question in individual paragraphs.

To support the evaluation, provide evidence from the work itself, such as a quote or example, and you should also cite evidence from related sources. Explain how this evidence supports your evaluation of the work.

This is usually a very brief paragraph, which includes:

• a statement indicating the overall evaluation of the work
• a summary of the key reasons, identified during the critical evaluation, why this evaluation was formed
• in some circumstances, recommendations for improvement on the work may be appropriate.

Reference list

Include all resources cited in your critique. Check with your lecturer/tutor for which referencing style to use.

• Mentioned the name of the work, the date of its creation and the name of the creator?
• Accurately summarised the work being critiqued?
• Mainly focused on the critical evaluation of the work?
• Systematically outlined an evaluation of each element of the work to achieve the overall purpose?
• Used evidence, from the work itself as well as other sources, to back and illustrate my assessment of elements of the work?
• Formed an overall evaluation of the work, based on critical reading?
• Used a well structured introduction, body and conclusion?
• Used correct grammar, spelling and punctuation; clear presentation; and appropriate referencing style?

Further information

• University of New South Wales: Writing a Critical Review
• University of Toronto: The Book Review or Article Critique

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A 9-Step Practical Guide On How To Analyze A Speech – Speech Analysis of I have A Dream Speech as an Example

A speech, as we all know, is a vocal opinion of a speaker’s stand. Speeches are usually used as an effective tool for rallying support, conveying opinion, as well as influencing the thoughts of others (usually the audience) to accept or agree with the thoughts of the Speaker.

However, in most cases, there is usually a need to consider what was not said in a speech, or what the motive of the Speaker was. For this reason, speech analysis comes in handy in order to have a full understanding of a speech.

What is Speech Analysis?

In its simplest form, speech analysis or speech interpretation can be said to be the process of extracting important pieces of information that are contained in a speech. When carrying out speech analysis, there is usually a need to take note of some essential and necessary components of the Speech . These include;

1. Analyzing the purpose or intent of the Speech

For instance, a speech may be written to entertain the audience with some humorous lines, persuade the audience into thinking or agreeing with the opinion of the Speaker, or to inform the audience about something which the Speaker is skilled in.

2. The target audience and how the Speech relates to them

Also of paramount importance during speech analysis is  taking note of who the target audience is, and how the Speech relates to the audience .

For instance, when analyzing a speech that was delivered to support the need for a pay rise in an organization, in that case, it will be expected that the audience listening to such a speech will be members of staff of the organization who are clamoring for a rise in their pay.

3. The effective and validity of the Speech 

Still using the same above example about a speech about a pay rise in an organization, the Speaker may have to include facts such as the agreed terms for a pay rise in the organization. 

The I Have A Dream Speech by Martin Luther King Jr (with Video+Audio+Full Transcript and Historical Context)

What is the First Step in Rhetoric Analysis?

The Structure of a Speech

Introducing a speech with such powerful elements is an excellent way to give the audience reasons why they should listen to the Speaker, instead of starting with a dry  “hello everyone, it’s a great privilege to talk to you today.”

After the introduction comes the body of a speech, which is the part that contains the Speaker’s main points. These points are usually expected to be supported with relevant examples, details, statistics, and facts, which are explained in simply and concisely.

In the body of a speech, the Speaker should make necessary effort to ensure that all the facts and pieces of evidence presented in the Speech aligns with the primary objective of the Speech. As mentioned earlier, these facts and proofs should all be presented in a simple and clear language for the understanding of the audience.

The concluding part of a speech also packs as much power as the other two parts mentioned earlier. 

Also, in the conclusion of a speech, the Speaker should be concise about what he expects from the audience, whether it is for a petition to be signed, requesting their support, for a product to be bought, or for some other specific actions from the audience as contained in the Speech. 

How to Analyze and Interpret a Speech? 9 Key Questions to effective speech Analysis.

However, when analyzing a speech, don’t feel satisfied by merely outline these nine important questions in the Speech and answering them. Instead, there should be a complementary explanation or example of how these nine key questions work using a speech as an example. So, in analyzing a speech, here are the 9 key questions you must give appropriate answers to for effective speech analysis .

1. Who is the Speaker?

In analyzing a speech, you have to consider who is the Speaker, and how does the Speaker’s rank, position, personal views, motives, or experience affect the Speech.

2. Who is/are the Audience?

3. what is the type of speech.

In this regard, the Speech delivered might be one that is intended to inform or educate the audience, entertain, or even persuade the audience to take certain steps of action.

4. What is the Structure of the Speech?

5. what is the purpose of the speech.

Like I mentioned earlier, every Speech is usually aimed at achieving a purpose. For some, the purpose might be to persuade the audience, entertain, or even to open the eyes of the audience about a piece of information they are yet to know.

6. What is the Content/Circumstances of the Speech

In evaluating the content and circumstances of a speech, you consider the events that have created the need for the Speech. In doing this, you may have to pay closer attention to specific elements such as;  

7. What are the Techniques used by the Speaker?

Techniques employed by the Speaker are usually the various modes of persuasion, in which the Speaker adopts. These techniques are also known as rhetorical appeals , and they are ways of persuading the audience to believe the Speaker’s point of view.

8. Is the Intention of the Speech Achieved?

By analyzing a speech to see whether or not it has achieved its purpose, you may have to carry out some evaluations to ascertain if the Speech was successful.

9. What is the overall result of the analysis of the Speech?

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The 4 Methods or Types of Speech Delivery

The 7 basic elements of public speaking.

Remember that time you had to present a topic in front of a crowd? Probably it was a proposal at work or an oral report in grade school. You took the time to prepare and gather materials, after which you climbed the podium and started talking. There are seven basic elements of public speaking that…

An Easy Guide to All 15 Types of Speech

Analyzing the i have a dream speech by martin luther king jr.

In a bid to have a full understanding of how the various questions that should be considered when carrying out speech analysis work, we shall be considering the heroic Speech delivered by a civil rights leader – Martin Luther King Jr, on August 28, 1963, in front of the Lincoln Memorial Mall. 

Before we go straight into the analysis of the “ I Have A Dream ” Speech, let’s take a quick look at the context of the Speech. 

Related Article: The I Have A Dream Speech by Martin Luther King Jr (with Video+Audio+Full Transcript and Historical Context)

Alternatively, you can just watch the 17 minutes full Speech through the link below;

The Speaker, in this case, is Martin Luther King Jr, who is a prominent negro civil rights activist fighting to secure freedom and emancipation for his fellow negroes.

However, it is evident that members of media were present to cover the event, and so it is obvious that the Speech was open to everyone who could have access to a live stream of the Speech

“And so, we’ve come to cash this check, a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice.”

He started by reminding his fellow negroes about the history of the emancipation proclamation by Abraham Lincoln.

“Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity.”

“But one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination. One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later, the Negro is still languished in the corners of American society and finds himself an exile in his own land.”

“And so let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire. Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York. Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania. Let freedom ring from the snow-capped Rockies of Colorado. Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California. But not only that: Let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia. Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee. Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi. From every mountainside, let freedom ring.”

From the content of Dr. King’s Speech, it is very obvious that the purpose of the Speech was to persuade the American government in 1963 to sign and enact the civil rights law that will bring absolute freedom and emancipation to the African American amongst them.

“We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of Now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquillizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God’s children.”

“There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, “When will you be satisfied?” We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities. We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote, and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote. No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until “justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream.”

Also worthy of note and analysis is the geographical location where the Speech was delivered and the choice of such location. 

In this case, Martin Luther’s Speech was delivered at the Lincoln National Mall, just in front of the statue of Abraham Lincoln. And the choice of this place was to bring to mind the fact that about 100 years ago, Abraham Lincoln, whose statue is right behind the Speaker, signed the Emancipation Proclamation of the negroes in America.

“I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.”

“I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. And some of you have come from areas where your quest — quest for freedom left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering.”

Dr. King also employed logos to give data and figures that will support his call for the emancipation of the African Americans.

“Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation.”

I also noted the use of irony to express the supposed reasons why the negroes are undergoing injustice and segregation in America.

“But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. And so, we’ve come to cash this check, a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice.”

Although the Speech wasn’t intended to convince or persuade the audience to accept or agree to the need for the emancipation of the negro, since the majority of the audience who present during the Speech were all civil rights activists protesting for the passage of the civil rights law.

In summary, I think that the “I Have A Dream” speech by Martin Luther King Jr was a timely call for the freedom of the negroes in America after the successful completion of 100 years after the emancipation proclamation by Abraham Lincoln.

The choice of the geographical location for the Speech was apt, and it was the perfect place to call to mind the emancipation proclamation for the negroes.

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How to Write a Speech Critique Paper

Many classes that focus on or include public speaking require critique papers to help develop your understanding of what makes a speech effective. These steps will help you pen a thoughtful paper critiquing a classmate's or coworker's speech.

Gather the notes you took during the speech and any guidelines you have for the length and breadth of the paper. If you have a recording of the speech, you may wish to listen to it a second time. Record your impressions and observations—what you liked, what you didn't like. Note the specific places where you felt confused, where your attention started to wander (i.e. the speaker lost your interest), where the speaker sounded awkward or hesitant and where the speaker did well. Also jot down any turn of phrase that caught your attention.

Elaborate on your thoughts, creating a very rough draft of the critique paper. At this stage, don't worry about smooth, polished phrasing or spelling the speaker's name right. Just get your thoughts down. It helps to write a longer rough draft than you need, so that later, after you revise, you won't have to fret about your paper being too short.

Revise the speech critique paper, starting with macro-level issues like structure and working your way down into the level of individual word choice. Delete repetitive phrases and weak or vague criticisms.

Such a paper typically begins with an introduction that includes the speaker's full name (check that you spell it right) and the topic of her speech. The body of the paper should cover the things that the speaker did well and the things the speaker could have done better. The conclusion should reiterate the things done well and offer a note of encouragement or expression of confidence that, with practice, the speaker will grow to be a dynamic, invigorating orator.

• When writing the critique paper, keep in mind that the speaker may see it. While you certainly don't have to sugar-coat your prose ("Billy did great in every part of his speech"), do keep basic courtesy and respect in mind when phrasing your criticisms.
• If you get stuck during the drafting process, use prompts as sentence beginnings, such as "I enjoyed," "I struggled with," "I felt" and "The speaker seemed."
• 1 Santa Fe College: Speech Critique Form

About the Author

First published at age 17, Kim Durant is an experienced writer with numerous published articles under her belt. A former tutor and community education teacher, she writes primarily about decorating, crafts and other creative pursuits.

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How to Write a Critique in Five Paragraphs

Last Updated: January 20, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Diane Stubbs . Diane Stubbs is a Secondary English Teacher with over 22 years of experience teaching all high school grade levels and AP courses. She specializes in secondary education, classroom management, and educational technology. Diane earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Delaware and a Master of Education from Wesley College. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 976,061 times.

A critique is usually written in response to a creative work, such as a novel, a film, poetry, or a painting. However, critiques are also sometimes assigned for research articles and media items, such as news articles or features. A critique is slightly different than a traditional 5-paragraph theme, as it is usually focused on the overall effectiveness and usefulness of the work it is critiquing, rather than making a strictly analytical argument about it. Organizing your critique into 5 paragraphs can help you structure your thoughts.

Laying the Groundwork

• Does the creator clearly state her/his main point or goal? If not, why do you think that is?
• Who do you think is the creator’s intended audience? This can be crucial to determining the success of a work; for example, a movie intended for young children might work well for its intended audience but not for adult viewers.
• What reactions do you have when reading or viewing this work? Does it provoke emotional responses? Do you feel confused?
• What questions does the work make you think of? Does it suggest other avenues of exploration or observation to you?

• For example, if you're critiquing a research article about a new treatment for the flu, a little research about other flu treatments currently available could be helpful to you when situating the work in context.
• As another example, if you're writing about a movie, you might want to briefly discuss the director's other films, or other important movies in this particular genre (indie, action, drama, etc.).
• Your school or university library is usually a good place to start when conducting research, as their databases provide verified, expert sources. Google Scholar can also be a good source for research.

Writing the Introductory Paragraph

• For a work of fiction or a published work of journalism or research, this information is usually available in the publication itself, such as on the copyright page for a novel.
• For a film, you may wish to refer to a source such as IMDb to get the information you need. If you're critiquing a famous artwork, an encyclopedia of art would be a good place to find information on the creator, the title, and important dates (date of creation, date of exhibition, etc.).

• For example, if you’re assessing a research article in the sciences, a quick overview of its place in the academic discussion could be useful (e.g., “Professor X’s work on fruit flies is part of a long research tradition on Blah Blah Blah.”)
• If you are evaluating a painting, giving some brief information on where it was first displayed, for whom it was painted, etc., would be useful.
• If you are assessing a novel, it could be good to talk about what genre or literary tradition the novel is written within (e.g., fantasy, High Modernism, romance). You may also want to include details about the author’s biography that seem particularly relevant to your critique.
• For a media item, such as a news article, consider the social and/or political context of the media outlet the item came from (e.g., Fox News, BBC, etc.) and of the issue it is dealing with (e.g., immigration, education, entertainment).

• The authors of research articles will often state very clearly in the abstract and in the introduction to their work what they are investigating, often with sentences that say something like this: "In this article we provide a new framework for analyzing X and argue that it is superior to previous methods because of reason A and reason B."
• For creative works, you may not have an explicit statement from the author or creator about their purpose, but you can often infer one from the context the work occupies. For example, if you were examining the movie The Shining, you might argue that the filmmaker Stanley Kubrick's goal is to call attention to the poor treatment of Native Americans because of the strong Native American themes present in the movie. You could then present the reasons why you think that in the rest of the essay.

• For example, if you were writing about The Shining, you could summarize the main points this way: "Stanley Kubrick uses strong symbolism, such as the placement of the movie's hotel on an Indian burial ground, the naming of the hotel "Overlook," and the constant presence of Native American artwork and representation, to call viewers' attention to America's treatment of Native Americans in history."

• For a research article, you will probably want to focus your thesis on whether the research and discussion supported the authors' claims. You may also wish to critique the research methodology, if there are obvious flaws present.
• For creative works, consider what you believe the author or creator's goal was in making the work, and then present your assessment of whether or not they achieved that goal.

Writing the 3 Body Paragraphs

• If you have three clear points about your work, you can organize each paragraph by point. For example, if you are analyzing a painting, you might critique the painter’s use of color, light, and composition, devoting a paragraph to each topic.
• If you have more than three points about your work, you can organize each paragraph thematically. For example, if you are critiquing a movie and want to talk about its treatment of women, its screenwriting, its pacing, its use of color and framing, and its acting, you might think about the broader categories that these points fall into, such as “production” (pacing, color and framing, screenwriting), “social commentary” (treatment of women), and “performance” (acting).
• Alternatively, you could organize your critique by “strengths” and “weaknesses.” The aim of a critique is not merely to criticize, but to point out what the creator or author has done well and what s/he has not.

• For example, if you are critiquing a song, you could consider how the beat or tone of the music supports or detracts from the lyrics.
• For a research article or a media item, you may want to consider questions such as how the data was gathered in an experiment, or what method a journalist used to discover information.

• Does the author use primary sources (e.g., historical documents, interviews, etc.)? Secondary sources? Quantitative data? Qualitative data? Are these sources appropriate for the argument?
• Has evidence been presented fairly, without distortion or selectivity?
• Does the argument proceed logically from the evidence used?

• If the work is a creative work, consider whether it presents its ideas in an original or interesting way. You can also consider whether it engages with key concepts or ideas in popular culture or society.
• If the work is a research article, you can consider whether the work enhances your understanding of a particular theory or idea in its discipline. Research articles often include a section on “further research” where they discuss the contributions their research has made and what future contributions they hope to make.

Writing the Conclusion Paragraph and References

Sample Critiques

Community Q&A

• Before you begin writing, take notes while you are watching or reading the subject of your critique. Keep to mind certain aspects such as how it made you feel. What was your first impression? With deeper examination, what is your overall opinion? How did you come to this opinion? Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• While the 5-paragraph form can work very well to help you organize your ideas, some instructors do not allow this type of essay. Be sure that you understand the assignment. If you’re not sure whether a 5-paragraph format is acceptable to your teacher, ask! Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Avoid using first and second person pronouns such as, “you”, “your”, “I”, “my”, or “mine.” State your opinion objectively for a more credible approach. Thanks Helpful 39 Not Helpful 14

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-write-a-critique
• ↑ https://writingcenter.uagc.edu/writing-article-critique
• ↑ https://www.citewrite.qut.edu.au/write/writing-well/critique.html
• ↑ http://www.writing.utoronto.ca/advice/specific-types-of-writing/book-review
• ↑ https://www.hunter.cuny.edu/rwc/handouts/the-writing-process-1/invention/Writing-a-Critique
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/esl/resources/writing-critiques/

About This Article

To write a 5-paragraph critique, provide the basic information about the work you're critiquing in the first paragraph, including the author, when it was published, and what its key themes are. Then, conclude this paragraph with a statement of your opinion of the work. Next, identify 3 central positive or negative issues in the work and write a paragraph about each one. For example, you could focus on the color, light, and composition of a painting. In the final paragraph, state your overall assessment of the work, and give reasons to back it up. For tips on how to take notes on the piece your critiquing, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Analyzing Famous Speeches as Arguments

• Resources & Preparation
• Instructional Plan
• Related Resources

Traditionally, teachers have encouraged students to engage with and interpret literature—novels, poems, short stories, and plays. Too often, however, the spoken word is left unanalyzed, even though the spoken word has the potential to alter our space just as much than the written. After gaining skill through analyzing a historic and contemporary speech as a class, students will select a famous speech from a list compiled from several resources and write an essay that identifies and explains the rhetorical strategies that the author deliberately chose while crafting the text to make an effective argument. Their analysis will consider questions such as What makes the speech an argument?, How did the author's rhetoric evoke a response from the audience?, and Why are the words still venerated today?

Featured Resources

From Theory to Practice

Nearly everything we read and hear is an argument. Speeches are special kinds of arguments and should be analyzed as such. Listeners should keep in mind the context of the situation involving the delivery and the audience-but a keen observer should also pay close attention to the elements of argument within the text. This assignment requires students to look for those elements.

"Since rhetoric is the art of effective communication, its principles can be applied to many facets of everyday life" (Lamb 109). It's through this lesson that students are allowed to see how politicians and leaders manipulate and influence their audiences using specific rhetorical devices in a manner that's so effective that the speeches are revered even today. It's important that we keep showing our students how powerful language can be when it's carefully crafted and arranged.

Further Reading

Common Core Standards

This resource has been aligned to the Common Core State Standards for states in which they have been adopted. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, CCSS alignments are forthcoming.

State Standards

This lesson has been aligned to standards in the following states. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, standard alignments are not currently available for that state.

NCTE/IRA National Standards for the English Language Arts

• 3. Students apply a wide range of strategies to comprehend, interpret, evaluate, and appreciate texts. They draw on their prior experience, their interactions with other readers and writers, their knowledge of word meaning and of other texts, their word identification strategies, and their understanding of textual features (e.g., sound-letter correspondence, sentence structure, context, graphics).
• 4. Students adjust their use of spoken, written, and visual language (e.g., conventions, style, vocabulary) to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and for different purposes.
• 5. Students employ a wide range of strategies as they write and use different writing process elements appropriately to communicate with different audiences for a variety of purposes.
• 7. Students conduct research on issues and interests by generating ideas and questions, and by posing problems. They gather, evaluate, and synthesize data from a variety of sources (e.g., print and nonprint texts, artifacts, people) to communicate their discoveries in ways that suit their purpose and audience.

Materials and Technology

• ReadWriteThink Notetaker
• Teacher Background and Information Sheet
• Student Assignment Sheet
• List of Speeches for Students
• Queen Elizabeth I’s Speech with Related Questions
• Historical Speech Research Questions
• Peer Response Handout
• Essay Rubric

This website contains audio of the Top 100 speeches of all time.

Included on this site is audio of famous speeches of the 20th century, as well as information about the speeches and background information on the writers.

The "Great Speeches Collection" from The History Place are available here in print and in audio.

This website includes information on finding and documenting sources in the MLA format.

Preparation

• Review the background and information sheet for teachers to familiarize yourself with the assignment and expectations.  Consider your students' background with necessary rhetorical terms such as claims, warrants, the appeals (logos, pathos, ethos), and fallacies; and rhetorical devices such as tone, diction, figurative language, repetition, hyperbole, and understatement. The lesson provides some guidance for direct instruction on these terms, but there are multiple opportunities for building or activating student knowledge through modeling on the two speeches done as a class.
• Check the links to the online resources (in Websites section) make sure that they are still working prior to giving out this assignment.
• Decide whether you want to allow more than one student to analyze and write about the same speech in each class.
• Look over the  List of Speeches for Students to decide if there are any that you would like to add.
• Look over the suggested Essay Rubric and determine the weights you would like to assign to each category.  For example, you might tell students that Support and Research may be worth three times the value of Style. Customize the Essay Rubric to meet the learning goals for your students.
• Reserve the library for Session Three so the students can do research on their speeches.
• President Obama’s Inauguration Speech.
• Former President Bush’s Defends War in Iraq Speech.
• Former President Bush’s 9/11 Speech.
• Former President Clinton’s “I Have Sinned” Speech.

Student Objectives

Students will

• analyze a speech for rhetorical devices and their purpose.
• identify an author’s purposeful manipulation of language.
• identify elements of argument within a speech.
• write an analysis of a speech with in-text documentation.

Session One

• Begin the lesson by asking students what needs to be present in order for a speech to occur. Though the question may seem puzzling—too hard, or too simple—at first, students will eventually identify, as Aristotle did, the need for a speaker, a message, and an audience.
• The class should discuss audience and the importance of identifying the audience for speeches, since they occur in particular moments in time and are delivered to specific audiences. This is a good time to discuss the Rhetorical Triangle (Aristotelian Triad) or discuss a chapter on audience from an argumentative textbook. You may wish to share information from the ReadWriteThink.org lesson Persuasive Techniques in Advertising and  The Rhetorical Triangle from The University of Oklahoma.
• Next distribute Queen Elizabeth’s speech to the troops at Tilbury and use the speech and its historical context as a model for the processes students will use on the speech they select. Provide a bit of background information on the moment in history.
• Then, as a class, go over  Queen Elizabeth’s speech and discuss the rhetorical devices in the speech and the purpose for each one. Adjust the level of guidance you provide, depending on your students' experiences with this type of analysis. The questions provide a place to start, but there are many other stylistic devices to discuss in this selection.

Discuss the audience and the author’s manipulation of the audience. Consider posing questions such as

• This is a successful speech.  Why?
• Elizabeth uses all of the appeals – logos, pathos, and ethos – to convince all of her listeners to fight for her from the loyal follower to the greedy mercenary.  How?
• The tone shifts throughout the selection.  Where?  But more importantly, why?

Martin Luther King, Jr. uses an appeal to pathos in his “I Have a Dream” speech through his historical allusion to Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation: “Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity.” This is particularly effective for his audience of people sympathetic to the cause of African American men and women who would have been especially moved by this particular reference since it had such a significant impact on the lives of African Americans.

Session Two

• Continue the work from the previous session by distributing the  Analyzing Famous Speeches as Arguments handout and discussing the assignment and what it requires. See the  background and information sheet for teachers for more details.
• Tell students they will be getting additional practice with analyzing a speech as an argument by showing a short  10-minute clip of a presidential speech . Ask students to think about how the particular moment in history and the national audience contribute to the rhetorical choices made by the speaker.
• Lead a discussion of the speech as an argument with regard to purpose and intent. Work with students to identify warrants, claims, and appeals.
• Ask students to consider how the author manipulates the audience using tone, diction, and stylistic devices. What rhetorical devices aided the author’s manipulation of his audience? Discuss a particular rhetorical device that the President used and the purpose it served.
• Share the Essay Rubric and explain to students the expectations for success on this assignment.
• Allow students to select a speech from the List of Speeches for Students . If they wish to preview any of the speeches, they can type the speaker's name and the title of the speech into a search engine and should have little difficulty finding it.

Session Three

• Take the students to the library and allow them to research their speeches. They should locate their speech and print a copy for them to begin annotating for argumentative structure and rhetorical devices.
• What was the speaker up against?  What is the occasion for the speech?
• What did the author have to keep in mind when composing the text?  
• What were his or her goals?  
• What was his or her ultimate purpose?  
• What was his or her intent?
• Remind students that the writer of the speech is sometimes not the person who delivered the speech, for example, and this will surprise some students. Many people assume that the speaker (president, senator, etc.) is always the writer, and that’s not always the case, so ask your students to check to see who wrote the speech. (They might be surprised at the answer. There’s always a story behind the composition of the speech.)
• Help students find the author of the speech because this will challenge some students. Oftentimes, students assume the speaker is the author, and that’s sometimes not the case. Once the speechwriter is identified, it is easier to find information on the speech. Help students find the history behind the speech without getting too bogged down in the details. They need to understand the climate, but they do not need to be complete experts on the historical details in order to understand the elements of the speech.
• If they wish, students can use the ReadThinkWrite Interactive Notetaker to help them track their notes for their essays. Remind them that their work cannot be saved on this tool and should be printed by the end of the session so they can use it in future work.
• For Session Four, students must bring a thesis, an outline, and all of their research materials to class for a workday. Remind them to refer to the Analyzing Famous Speeches as Arguments , the Essay Rubric , and any notes they may have taken during the first two sessions as they begin their work.
• The thesis statement should answer the following question: What makes this speech an effective argument and worthy of making this list?

Session Four

• Set up students in heterogeneous groups of four. Ask students to share their outlines and thesis statements.
• Go around to check and to monitor as students share their ideas and progress. The students will discuss their speeches and their research thus far.
• Have students discuss the elements of an argument that they plan on addressing.
• Finally, have students work on writing their papers by writing their introductions with an enticing “grab” or “hook.” If time permits, have students share their work. 
• For Session Five, students should bring in their papers. This session would happen in about a week.

Session Five

• In this session, students will respond each other's drafts using the Peer Response Handout .
• Determine and discuss the final due date with your students. Direct students to Diana Hacker’s MLA site for assistance with their citations if necessary. 
• Remind students that their work will be evaluate using the essay rubric .  They should use the criteria along with the comments from their peer to revise and polish their work.
• During the process of analyzing  Queen Elizabeth I’s Speech , consider showing the related scene from the film Elizabeth: The Golden Age . Though the text of the speech is drastically cut and altered, seeing one filmmaker's vision for the scene may help reinforce the notion of historical context and the importance of audience.
• Allow students to read and/or perform parts of the speeches out loud. Then, they can share some of their thinking about the argumentative structure and rhetorical devices used to make the speech effective. This activity could happen as part of the prewriting process or after essays have been completed.
• Require students to write a graduation speech or a speech on another topic. They can peruse print or online news sources to select a current event that interests them.  Have them choose an audience to whom they would deliver an argumentative speech.

Student Assessment / Reflections

• After peer response has taken place, use the essay rubric to provide feedback on student work. You may change the values of the different categories/requirements to better suit the learning goals for your classroom.
• Calendar Activities
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• Strategy Guides

Students explore the ways that powerful and passionate words communicate the concepts of freedom, justice, discrimination, and the American Dream in Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech.

While drafting a literary analysis essay (or another type of argument) of their own, students work in pairs to investigate advice for writing conclusions and to analyze conclusions of sample essays. They then draft two conclusions for their essay, select one, and reflect on what they have learned through the process.

Useful for a wide variety of reading and writing activities, this outlining tool allows students to organize up to five levels of information.

This strategy guide clarifies the difference between persuasion and argumentation, stressing the connection between close reading of text to gather evidence and formation of a strong argumentative claim about text.

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Home > Blog > How To Write a Rhetorical Analysis

How To Write a Rhetorical Analysis

• Smodin Editorial Team
• Updated: August 13, 2024
• Step-by-Step Instructions for Writing

In academic work, how you present your argument is arguably as crucial as your point itself. Enter: rhetorical analysis. This style of essay doesn’t look at the author’s argument, but instead, how well they present it. Think about it: it’s not always about what you say, but how you say it.

To write a strong rhetorical analysis essay, you need to dive deep into the author’s work. Your goal is to decide if they achieved their desired outcome–persuading the audience. But how?

Keep reading our comprehensive guide below if you want to learn how to write a rhetorical analysis that will impress your peers and teachers.

Step 1 – Understand the Purpose and Audience

So what is a rhetorical analysis essay? It’s different from a conventional essay, which you might be used to writing. It aims to explore how the author (A.K.A. the rhetorician) wrote their work.

Crucially, the work you’re analyzing has to be rhetorical, which may differ a bit from academic writing. In other words, the author’s intentions were to persuade an audience – that’s what rhetoric is. Your analysis could be on any rhetorical situation:

• Academic articles
• TV commercials, films, and plays
• Art exhibitions
• Advertisements and cartoons

If you’re analyzing these works, you need to try to:

• Identify the intended purpose of the work
• Consider who the intended audience is and how they might react to the work
• Analyze the context within which the author wrote the text and how this impacts what strategies they used

These points form the main basis of your essay.

Step 2 – Identify the Rhetorical Strategies

All rhetorical work appeals to Aristotle’s rhetorical triangle :

The famed philosopher developed this theory in the 4th century BC. The rhetorical triangle outlines the main ways that language can persuade an audience.

Crucially, these strategies are the foundation of rhetorical analysis essays. So, you can start your analysis by identifying where they show up.

Ethos (Credibility)

Ethos is about the reputation of the author regarding the topic of their work. Think of it this way: you’re more likely to watch a movie if it stars your favorite actor. You already know you like their films, so you trust that you’ll enjoy their newest work!

Let’s explore a more professional example. You’re more likely to buy sneakers from Adidas than from a startup you’ve never heard of.

The ethical appeal relies on the authority of the author to persuade the reader. They may use various rhetorical devices:

• Presenting themselves as an authority on their subject
• Highlighting how impeccable their behavior is, making a moral argument
• Presenting themselves as an expert by listing their qualifications or experience

Start by going through the text and highlighting any part where the writer establishes ethos. You can use three different colors to categorize the three appeals.

Pathos (Emotional Appeal)

Pathos is all about emotions. Humans are emotional creatures, at heart. So, this rhetorical appeal attempts to elicit an emotional response from the reader.

Think about those charity ads you see on TV. They use upsetting, vivid imagery and passionate language, telling personal stories that compel you to donate money. This is what’s known as a pathetic appeal.

Go through the text with a different highlighter pen and highlight areas where pathos shows up in the text.

Logos (Logical Appeal)

The last of the rhetorical techniques is logos or logic. Logos appeals to practical reasoning, supported by data and evidence. The author must use a reasoned argument that follows a logical structure. This is far more likely to convince their audience that they are correct.

Logos is what most academic texts rely on. Emotional appeals are out of the question. You don’t see academic researchers trying to tug at your heartstrings; they have to rely on actual analysis.

Again, you’ll need to go through the text and identify logical appeals.

Step 3 – Analyze the Structure and Style

The next step in a strong rhetorical analysis is to analyze the structure and style of the work. The way the author puts together the text can work to support their argument. Similarly, the style can appeal to a specific audience. Here’s what you should consider.

Is the text chronological or thematic? How has the author grouped their ideas? This can significantly impact how persuasive it is . For example, arranging a speech chronologically can help the audience follow a sequence of events. Meanwhile, a thematic structure can emphasize specific points.

You can also break down the text into different sections and paragraphs, understanding how each part contributes to the whole. For example, there might be an introduction that sets the stage, then body paragraphs that explore solutions. It might end with a powerful concluding statement that elicits hope or some other emotional response.

Finally, investigate the pacing. Is it fast-paced with short, punchy sentences , or slow and deliberate? This delivery method can impact its persuasiveness by indicating a different urgency of the message.

There are many ways to change the style of rhetorical appeals. The first is the author’s choice of words. Are they using formal or informal language? Technical jargon or everyday vocabulary? This can reveal the intended audience and the author’s attitude about the subject.

And what about their tone? Is it serious, humorous, sarcastic, passionate, or detached? The tone can influence how the audience feels about the message (and indeed, the author). A passionate tone, for example, can be inspiring and motivating.

You can also look at the imagery and descriptive language. Vivid descriptions can appeal to the senses, making the argument more memorable and impactful.

Step 4 – Evaluate the Effectiveness

Steps 2 and 3 are all about going through the text, highlighting, and making notes. Now, it’s time to evaluate how effective these strategies are. Read through it as a whole, and think about it. Did their argument work on you? However, keep in mind that it could be intended for a different audience.

Start by focusing on the author, and think about what their purpose was when writing the text. But then, move onto the audience’s reason for reading the text. Who are they? What drives them? Then, re-read the text again and think about whether the highlighted sections would effectively persuade them.

At this point, you can make notes on:

• How effective the strategies and stylistic choices are
• Strengths of the argument
• Weaknesses of the argument
• Examples you might want to include in your essay

Step 5 – Write the Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Now, it’s finally time to write the essay. Follow these steps to get top marks.

Write the Introduction

Your rhetorical analysis introduction sets the stage for your entire essay. Here, you introduce the text you are analyzing, along with the author. Then, provide an overview of the author’s main argument and key concepts in their text.

At the end of your introduction, provide a hard-hitting thesis statement that demonstrates the main points of your analysis.

Write Body Paragraphs

In the body of your essay, you need to write several paragraphs that provide a clear, coherent argument. Each body paragraph should focus on a specific element of the text you are analyzing.

For example, one body paragraph might focus on ethos techniques, while another focuses on logos.

Remember that, throughout the essay, you should use evidence of key rhetorical concepts to support your argument.

Write the Conclusion

Finally, you need a rhetorical analysis conclusion. This should, like any conclusion, summarize the key points you made during your analysis. Restate your thesis, but present it in light of the evidence you have evaluated.

Then, discuss the significance of the strategies you mentioned in achieving the author’s overall argument.

Tips for Writing a Compelling Rhetorical Analysis

Want to excel in your rhetorical analysis? These three tips will keep your essay on track.

Be Thorough and Detailed

First, you need to ensure that your analysis is detailed. Although you’re working within the framework of the three appeals, you still need to write the essay in your own words.

So, avoid superficial observations and be sure to provide in-depth analysis using specific examples and quotes.

Maintain Objectivity

Your essay is not a rhetorical situation. You don’t need to appeal to pathos! So, make sure your essay focuses on the rhetorical strategy of the author and not your personal opinion.

Keep your analysis balanced and fair.

Stay Organized

Finally, make sure you stay organized. Keep the reader hooked from the first paragraph, before diving into your main idea in the body of the essay. The body should follow a clear and logical structure.

Also, make sure you transition smoothly between paragraphs or sections.

Write a Better Rhetorical Analysis With Smodin

So, this is how to write a rhetorical analysis. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy!

Did you know that you can use artificial intelligence to help with your work? Smodin, for example, is a high-powered AI writer trained using academic data. Add your information to Smodin to receive a sample rhetorical analysis that illustrates all your key points. From there, you can humanize the text and create a compelling essay that will get you a high mark.

So, what are you waiting for? Try Smodin today!

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Speech Critique Examples

How To Give Constructive Criticism: 6 Helpful Tips

• by Celes     |    
• Career & Work , Relationships

This article is available for download as an ebook. Click on the button below to download.

“People seldom refuse help, if one offers it in the right way.” — A. C. Benson.

Have you ever given suggestions that were subsequently ignored?

Have you ever given critiques that were not well received?

Have you ever wanted to give constructive criticism on something, but held back from doing so because you did not know how to convey your ideas across?

How to Give Constructive Criticism in 6 Steps

Today’s guide is on how to give constructive criticism to someone. Whether at work or in relationships, sharing and receiving feedback is part and parcel of improvement. If you have ideas on how someone can improve, don’t hold your ideas back — rather, share your criticism constructively.

Of course, to be sensitive to others’ feelings and offer feedback when you feel the other person is ready to take it. Otherwise, you may come across as imposing your views on others, especially if you repeatedly tell others what to do without them asking for your opinion.

1. Use the Feedback Sandwich

The feedback sandwich method is a popular method of giving constructive criticism. It is often used in Toastmasters and in the corporate environment. I refer to the feedback sandwich as PIP, which stands for Positive-Improvement-Positive. I know there are people who use PIP to represent Praise-Improve-Praise which is different from my version of PIP. Read on.

With Positive-Improve-Positive , your feedback is broken down into 3 segments:

• You start off by focusing on the strengths — what you like about the item in question.
• Then, you provide the criticism — things you don’t like, the areas of improvement.
• Lastly, you round off the feedback with (a) a reiteration of the positive comments you gave at the start and (b) the positive results that can be expected if the criticism is acted upon.

It’s called the “feedback sandwich” because you wedge your criticism between an opening and an ending — like a patty wedged between two buns.

Here’s an example: you want to critique someone on their website. Here’s how PIP can be used:

• “Great website! I love the overall layout and how user-friendly it is. The overall design is nice and pleasing to the eye, and consistent with your brand. The menu is very accessible and makes it easy to access your site sections. I found the intro video helpful in giving me an overview of what you do.”
• “However, I thought that there are two things that can be better. Firstly, there is a lot of content in the sidebar that clutters up the usage experience. Perhaps if the sidebar content can be narrowed down to the key things, it would make it easier to navigate. Secondly, the font size is too small for me. I found it hard to read as I had to keep squinting.”
• “Overall, great work. I love what you’ve done with the design, layout, and intro video. I think if the sidebar clutter can be removed and the font size can be increased, it’d really create a fantastic usage experience for any visitor.”

The feedback sandwich is a good framework for providing constructive criticism because by starting off with the positive comments (the first “P”), you let the receiver know that you are on his/her side and you are not there to attack him/her . You are also recognizing things that the receiver is doing right, rather than only talking about the issue areas which can come across as being rude — especially if both of you don’t really know each other to begin with. The receiver then becomes more receptive to your critique (the “I” in PIP).

After sharing the things you don’t like or feel can be improved, round off the criticism with more positive points (the last “P”). This helps your critique end off on a high note, rather than leaving the recipient with a sour taste in his/her mouth. It also reminds him/her what he/she is doing right and reinforces the benefits of acting on your critique.

The feedback sandwich method is most appropriate when you are giving criticism to people you don’t know or don’t know well. Otherwise you may come across as very aggressive and rude if you just jump right into the critique. This is especially true in the Asian culture. Over time though, you can go right into the critique if you have established a rapport with the recipient and he/she is familiar with the way you think.

Some people may dislike using the feedback sandwich as they think it’s silly to praise for the sake of it. But the point of the feedback sandwich isn’t to give false praise or to butter people up. People are often quick to criticize, judge, or even shame , and it downplays what others are doing well and the effort they have put into their work. I see the feedback sandwich as a great way to (a) practice emotional generosity , because we sure can work on being more generous in supporting people’s hard work, (b) help the person learn what he/she is doing well, and (c) use this as the foundation to share what can be improved on.

2. Focus on the situation, not the person

(Image: Pink Sherbet )

Constructive criticism focuses on the situation, not the person.

Example #1 : Giving feedback on a person’s presentation style

• Bad example : “You’re really boring. You kept going on and on about a certain point even though we were running behind time; it made me want to fall asleep!”  — While perhaps said with good intentions to help the person improve (though overly critical here , ouch ), this is not exactly constructive criticism. It makes a personal attack and makes it seem like he/she is the problem.
• Good example : [Apply the feedback sandwich first where you insert context and talk about the good points. Then, move on to the critique.] “… however, I thought some of the points could be delivered in a more concise manner. For example, the presentation allotted time is 30 minutes but we went over time by about 10 minutes, which is one-third of the intended time. Since there were 5 points, perhaps we could allocate 5 minutes per point, which would take up 25 minutes for 5 points, and then have 5 minutes left for closing? This would create a presentation that’s more well-paced.” — The situation is detached from the person. Critique is given on the situation itself.

Example #2 : Giving feedback on a person’s character trait

• Bad example : “You’re always so negative. It’s so draining to be around you.”  — Like Example #1, this feedback makes a personal attack at the person. It also does not tell the person what he/she can do, which makes it unconstructive.
• Good feedback : [Insert context first before going into critique.] “… there are times when I was hurt by the comments you made as they were somewhat demeaning. For example, the last time I had a haircut, one of the first things you said was how ugly I looked. That took me by surprise and I felt quite down.”  — While it’s tricky to give constructive criticism when it comes to someone’s personality, here it is successfully accomplished by separating the person’s actions from him/herself. This makes it easy to critique the behavior without offending the person in question.

How to apply this tip:

• Firstly, detach the situation from the person . This distinction is crucial. Take the person out of the equation and focus on the behavior / action / situation / issue at hand.
• Comment on the issue, not the person . For example, “The clothes are dirty” and not “You are dirty.” “The report is late” and not “You are late.” “The food is oily” and not “You are a bad cook.”
• Don’t make personal attacks . Comments like “I’m so sick and tired of…” or “You’re so stupid / negative / lazy / unorganized / ” come across as accusatory.  Stay away from attacks.
• Don’t use active voice; use passive voice . Example of active voice vs. passive voice: “You gave a bad presentation.” vs. “The presentation you gave was bad.” Notice that the passive voice shifts the attention away from the person and brings it to the subject matter.
• Share how it affects you.  Rather than go on and on about how bad the thing is, share how it affects you. This shifts the focus away from the person and onto yourself, which lets the person take a step back to evaluate the situation. It also gives him/her insight to where you are coming from.

3. Be specific with your feedback

(Image: Joe Duty )

The third tip to providing constructive criticism is to be specific.

I receive a lot of feedback in running PE. The more specific someone is when giving the feedback, the more actionable it is for me. Here is an example of a vague vs. specific feedback:

• Vague : “Hey Celes, I’d love it if you can write some articles on communication.”
• Specific :  “Hey Celes, don’t know if you’re taking suggestions but if you do, I’d love some advice on public speaking.”

The first feedback is very broad — “communication” is a very general topic. While I can identify some subtopics under communication like “networking,” “ body language ,” “ small talk ,” and “public speaking,” the subtopics that I choose may not be what the reader really wants.

With the second feedback, it is more actionable because it is so specific. It tells me right away that “Hey, there’s a request for public speaking articles,” after which I can then plan for an article or series on public speaking. There is no confusion.

That’s not to say that vague feedback is stupid or bad. It’s just that specific feedback helps me understand the user’s needs more easily, which makes it easy for me to serve his/her request. Likewise, it’s the same for you — if you want very actionable outcomes, if you want people to help you in a more targeted way, give specific vs. vague feedback. Specific feedback that doesn’t target the person as I shared in tip #2.

Here is another example of vague vs. specific feedback. Say you’re giving feedback on a report:

• Vague : “Good effort on the report but I don’t like it. I think there is room to be better.” — This feedback is hardly constructive. What do you mean by “don’t like it”? “Like” and “dislike” are subjective words. Unless objective criteria is used, it’s hard for the person to decipher what is the problem.
• Specific : “Good effort but there are some things which can be improved – namely, (a) the formatting and (b) the report conclusions. The formatting is not standardized – there are some parts that uses Arial and other parts that use Times New Roman. In a formal report, it is best to standardize the font. For the report conclusions, the ideas are good but they are too brief, especially ideas #1 and #3. The management would need more data to make their assessment.” — Great feedback that is specific. It tells the receiver the key problem areas, why they are problem areas, and specific incidences where they appear.

Here’s how to make your feedback specific and hence actionable:

• Focus more on objective points than subjective opinions. Just saying “I don’t like it” is not helpful. On the other hand, stating the specific things you do not like, is helpful.
• Break your feedback down into key points . Don’t give your feedback as one big lump. Break it down into various key points, then give your feedback point by point.
• Give specific examples of each point . What are the exact situations or examples where the person exhibits the behaviors you highlighted in #2? Point them out. There is no need to highlight every single example – just pointing out 1-2 key examples per point will be sufficient. The intention here is to (a) bring the person’s awareness to things which he/she may be oblivious about and (b) illustrate what you mean.

4. Comment on things that are actionable

The whole point of giving feedback is to help the person improve.

Hence, focus on the things that the person  can  do something about, rather than the things that are out of his/her control. Critiquing the former makes your criticism constructive; critiquing the latter just makes the person feel bad because he/she can’t do anything about these things even if he/she wants to. You can comment on latter if it is crucial, but be sure to bring the focus back onto the things that he/she  can  control.

Let’s look at an example. Say your friend is in a singing competition and she has entered the finals. She asks you to critique her performance. Here, actionable critique would be talking about her overall performance, her pitch, her body language, and perhaps even her song choice.

On the other hand, talking about how her voice is too husky probably isn’t very helpful because firstly, if she can get into the finals, it probably isn’t a real “issue” to begin with. Secondly, it’s not something she can change. Thirdly, such a feedback is highly subjective. There are people who like husky voices just as there are others who prefer other kinds of voices. While you can point out things that you don’t like (e.g. if you find her voice too husky), making it central to your critique probably isn’t very helpful for her.

In another example, say your friend just started a new restaurant. He has signed a rental lease for 12 months and the location has average foot traffic. He approaches you for advice to market his restaurant.

Saying things like “change your restaurant location” isn’t helpful because the lease has been signed. You should point out the problem with the restaurant location and recommend that he consider places with high foot traffic if it’s possible to change the location, but focusing 100% of your energy to bash his poor location choice isn’t really going to help.

On the other hand, suggesting ideas that can counteract or mitigate the average foot traffic will be helpful. Actionable ideas include to invite food bloggers for food tasting, to do a media launch, to give promotional discounts, to create a buzz-worthy event to get people to visit the restaurant, and to place advertisements in lifestyle magazines.

Knowing what’s actionable and unactionable requires you to be empathetic. Understand the person’s situation and his/her objectives, then provide your critique based on that.

5. Give recommendations on how to improve

When all is said and done, give recommendations on what the person can do to improve.

Firstly, your recommendations will tie up your critique in a nice bow. Everyone has varying perspectives, which means every critique can be interpreted in different ways. Giving recommendations will give the person a clear idea of what you have in mind. Secondly, recommendations provide a strong call-to-action. You want the person to act on what you have shared, not procrastinate.

With your recommendations, I recommend to (a) be specific with your suggestions and (b) briefly explain the rationale behind the recommendation.

Example : Giving feedback on a presentation

• Weak recommendation : “The presentation is too long. Make it shorter.”  — Not very helpful. Reducing the presentation time can be done via many ways — cutting down the points, removing examples, talking faster, and so on. What exactly do you mean? Part of giving constructive criticism includes being specific (see Tip #3).
• Good recommendation : “Instead of 2-3 examples per point which detracts from the main message, limit 1 example to each point. This way, the presentation is more succinct and impactful. Doing this, the presentation length will easily be reduced from 30 minutes to 20 minutes.” — Great recommendation that is specific. Rationale is also provided which explains your point of view to the person.

6. Don’t make assumptions

My final tip for giving constructive criticism is not to make assumptions. When providing criticism, do so within what you know as fact about the person and the subject. There’s no need to make any assumptions. Not only does it make the person look bad, it also makes you look bad — especially when your assumption is wrong.

Here are 3 examples to highlight the difference between an assumption and a critique/comment:

Example #1 on public speaking:

• Criticism:  “The speech was mediocre. The speaker appeared nervous and was not able to lead the audience.”
• Assumption:  “The speaker never had any public speaking experience.”  This is an assumption and is not necessarily true. Seasoned public speakers can be nervous when giving speeches, especially in an new environment. To assume that someone doesn’t have any public speaking experience just because he/she appears nervous is quite pompous.

Example #2 on accents:

• Observation: “This person speaks with an accent that I’m not familiar with.”
• Assumption:  “This person is not a native English speaker.”  Not necessary true. Just because you don’t recognize the accent or you can’t understand it as well doesn’t mean that English isn’t the person’s native language — it just means that you aren’t familiar with the accent. In my experience, I find that people who are less traveled tend to think that anyone who doesn’t speak with an American accent is not a native English speaker, when there are many developed countries where English  is  their first language and the citizens are bilingual or trilingual.

Example #3  on someone’s behavior:

• Observation: “The new colleague seems to be  anxious  when around male co-workers. She keeps fidgeting and she’s not able to articulate herself well.”
• Assumption:  “The person was brought up in an all-girls environment.”  Assumption. This is not necessarily true. Anxiety around the opposite gender can happen to anyone.

As they say, when you assume, you make an “ASS out of U and ME.” Not having a presumptuous attitude will go a long way in any communication, not just in giving criticism.

Further Reading

• 5 Tips To Deal With Negative Criticism [Video]
• How To Deal With Critical People: 8 Tips
• 8 Tips To Tackle Naysayers
• How To Be Assertive, Not Aggressive [Podcast]
• Be a Better Me in 30 Days,  Day 14: Get Feedback from Others
• Be a Better Me in 30 Days,  Day 15: Reflect on a Criticism

Get the manifesto version of this article:  The Constructive Criticism Manifesto

Hi! I’m Celes. Thanks for reading. Personal Excellence is where I write about how to live our best life as we tackle life’s challenges. About Me »

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Writing a speech based on critique essays

Critique essays can help you understand areas of strength and weakness on a topic or subject. Writing a speech is a unique way to present meaningful information to a listening audience. Having both aspects come together to make a creative speech can be a tall order to fill, but depending on how you look at the situation, you may see the good in it after all after some time, patience, and thorough review. There are a few things to consider in getting more insight with critique essays and writing your speech.

Pulling Out Good Information

You should be able to take the time to pull out the good details to use in your speech. This means you need to make notes about useful information and consider how it will fit into your speech. You may or may not have an idea on what your speech is about, but reviewing critique essays can at least give some direction for content you should consider. Think about the message you want to express, the length of the speech so you pull enough information, and how final points selected will come together.

Can You Take a Negative and Turn It Into a Positive?

Maybe you came across content that had negative feedback or for some reason; you got a negative vibe from reading it in the essay. Is there something about this information you can present from another angle? This may present another challenge in itself, especially if the negativity is related to the point you hope to get across in your speech. Try to come up with a few ways to make the negative feedback or feeling you obtained from the critique essay into something workable for your speech. Sometimes you may not be able to do this based on the content, or if it doesn’t make sense to do so, but it may not hurt to try.

What Do You Want People to Know?

As previously mentioned, a speech works to present meaningful details you want to audience to know. So what information would you want people to know from critique essays? This can be anything based on subject matter. Maybe you want to raise awareness about something or clarify a common misconception. Think about the information you have collected from the essay and how you would want someone else to learn about it.

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How to Write and Deliver a Compelling Narrative Speech (With Examples)

• The Speaker Lab
• August 8, 2024

Table of Contents

If you want to elevate your public speaking game, storytelling is one of the best ways to do so. By weaving captivating tales into your presentations, you’ll forge a powerful emotional bond with your audience in a way you can’t with mere data and statistics. Not sure where to begin? Look no further than these narrative speech examples , designed to spark your creativity and help you craft your own compelling narratives.

From personal anecdotes to historical tales, these examples will demonstrate the power of storytelling to engage, persuade, and inspire. You’ll also see how great speakers use vivid language, descriptive details, and relatable characters to draw their listeners in and keep them hanging on every word. So get ready to take notes, because you’re about to unleash your inner storyteller!

What Is a Narrative Speech?

If you’ve ever been captivated by a great story, then you know the power of storytelling. A narrative speech is a type of speech that uses a personal story or narrative to engage the audience and illustrate a point. It’s one of the most effective ways to connect with your listeners on an emotional level.

Elements of a Good Narrative Speech

So, what makes a good narrative speech? First and foremost, it needs to have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Your story should have a strong opening that hooks the audience, a compelling middle that builds tension and keeps them engaged, and a satisfying conclusion that ties everything together.

If you want your story to pack a punch, don’t skimp on the specifics. Describe what you experienced using the five senses: sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste. When you paint a vivid picture with your words, your audience will feel like they’re right there with you, experiencing every thrilling moment firsthand.

Benefits of Giving a Narrative Speech

But why bother with a narrative speech in the first place? Because stories have the power to change hearts and minds. They allow you to connect with your audience on a personal level, making your message more memorable and impactful. Think about it—when was the last time a list of facts and figures moved you to tears or inspired you to take action? Probably never. But a well-told story? That can stay with you for a lifetime.

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How to Choose a Topic for Your Narrative Speech

Now that you’ve unlocked the potential of narrative speeches, the next step is selecting the perfect topic. Look for a narrative that not only resonates with you on a personal level but will also strike a chord with your audience.

Brainstorming Ideas

Start by brainstorming speech topics that are meaningful to you. Think about pivotal moments in your life, lessons you’ve learned, or challenges you’ve overcome. Consider stories that highlight your values, passions, or unique experiences.

One brainstorming technique is to make a list of “firsts”—first love, first job, first big failure, etc. These moments often make for compelling stories because they’re relatable and emotionally charged.

Narrowing Down Your Options

Once you have a list of potential topics, it’s time to narrow them down. Ask yourself which stories are most relevant to your audience and the message you want to convey. Which ones have the most dramatic arc or the most valuable lessons?

You also want to consider your comfort level with each story. Some stories may be too personal or emotionally raw to share in a public setting. Others may not have enough substance to sustain a full speech. Trust your gut and choose the story that feels right for you.

Ensuring Your Topic Is Engaging

Finally, make sure your chosen topic is engaging and compelling. A good story should have some sort of conflict or tension that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. It should also have a clear theme or message that resonates with listeners.

To determine if your story is a crowd-pleaser, put it to the test by sharing it with your inner circle. As you weave your narrative, watch closely for signs of engagement or boredom. Then, afterwards, ask for feedback on how you can improve your narrative speech—and don’t be afraid to ask for examples of how you might re-write specific sections. Jot down these suggestions and use them to fine-tune your story, ensuring it’s a hit with any audience.

Crafting an Outline for Your Narrative Speech

Now that you’ve nailed down your topic, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and craft a speech outline . Trust us, having a clear roadmap will make all the difference when it comes to delivering your message with confidence and clarity.

Introduction

Begin your speech with a hook, something that will pique your audience’s interest and encourage them to keep listening. Oftentimes, speakers like to use a shocking statistic or a captivating anecdote to kick things off.

For example, if your narrative speech is about overcoming a fear of public speaking , you might start with something like, “Imagine standing in front of a room full of people, your heart racing, your palms sweating, your mind going blank. That was me, just a few years ago.”

The body of your speech is where you’ll tell your actual story. Break it down into clear, chronological segments with smooth transitions between each part. Use vivid details and sensory language to bring the story to life.

As you’re writing, consider incorporating dialogue, humor , or suspense to keep the audience engaged. You might also use rhetorical devices like repetition or metaphor to drive home your key points.

As you wrap up your story, consider the bigger picture. What insights did this journey reveal to you? How have you grown as a person because of it? Think about the key takeaway you want to leave with your readers—something that will stick with them long after they’ve walked away.

End with a call-to-action or a thought-provoking question that encourages the audience to reflect on your message. You might also circle back to the opening anecdote or question to create a sense of closure.

Incorporating Characterization Techniques

To make your story more engaging, consider incorporating characterization techniques. This means giving your characters distinct personalities, motivations, and quirks that make them feel like real people.

Firstly, bring your characters to life through their conversations. The words they choose, their facial expressions, and even their body language can speak volumes about who they are and what makes them tick.

Secondly, to help your audience visualize your characters, use rich descriptions of their physical attributes, fashion choices, and distinct behaviors. Paint a picture of what they look like, how they present themselves through their attire, and any idiosyncrasies that define who they are. By bringing your characters to life, you’ll make your story more relatable and memorable for the audience.

In order to create a narrative speech that truly stands out , you’ll need to put in the time and effort to refine your craft. The reward? An opportunity to share a personal story that not only entertains but also motivates and inspires your audience, forging a connection that lasts long after the final word is spoken.

Delivering Your Narrative Speech Effectively

Before we get to narrative speech examples, let’s take a look at speech delivery. Speech delivery isn’t just about the words you say, but how you say them. Your body language, eye contact, and vocal delivery all play crucial roles in engaging your audience and making your story memorable.

In addition, practice until you can recite your story in your sleep. When you know your content like the back of your hand, you can focus on engaging with your listeners and making your words come alive.

Practicing Your Speech

Rehearsing your speech is of utmost importance. It’s a step that many speakers overlook, but it can make a world of difference in your delivery. When you practice, you familiarize yourself with the flow of your story, allowing you to speak more naturally and confidently.

One technique you find particularly helpful is recording yourself delivering the speech. When you watch the playback, you can identify areas where you need to improve your vocal variety, adjust your speaking rate , or refine your body language. It’s a powerful tool for self-critique and growth as a speaker.

Engaging Your Audience

When you take the stage, your focus should be squarely on those who have gathered to hear you. Eye contact is just the beginning; truly engaging your audience means creating a genuine connection and making them feel like they’re right there with you, experiencing your story firsthand. Try using words like “we” and “us” to make your audience feel included. Asking questions can also get them thinking about what you’re saying.

Using Props and Visual Aids

Your narrative speech may revolve around your words, but don’t underestimate the impact of a carefully selected prop or visual aid. These tools can make abstract ideas tangible, evoke strong emotional responses, and ensure your message lingers long after you’ve left the stage.

However, it’s important to use these tools judiciously. Overreliance on props or visuals can distract from your message and undermine your credibility as a speaker. When selecting props or creating visual aids, always ask yourself: does this add value to my story, or is it just a gimmick?

Overcoming Nervousness

Even seasoned speakers get the jitters sometimes. Before stepping up to the mic, take a moment to ground yourself with some breathing exercises. Visualize yourself delivering your story with confidence and poise, and watch as that nervous energy transforms into pure charisma on stage.

Remember, your listeners are your biggest supporters. They’ve gathered to hear your unique perspective and leave feeling uplifted. Rely on the effort you’ve put in, breathe deeply, and allow your fervor for your message to radiate throughout the room.

Examples of Compelling Narrative Speeches

Great speakers have always known the secret to capturing an audience’s attention: storytelling. Whether it’s an ancient Greek orator spinning a yarn or a modern-day TED Talker sharing a personal journey, the ability to craft a compelling narrative is what sets the best speakers apart. So, what do these narrative speeches look like in action? Let’s dive into some narrative speech examples that have educated, inspired, and motivated people across the ages.

Inspirational Stories

Inspirational stories are those that uplift and motivate us to be our best selves. They often involve overcoming adversity, achieving a seemingly impossible goal, or making a positive difference in the world. Take, for example, Amy Purdy’s narrative speech about the power of imagination. In case you aren’t familiar with the name, Amy Purdy is a Paralympic snowboarder who lost both her legs below the knee due to bacterial meningitis. In her TED talk, she shares her journey of resilience and adaptation, showing how she turned a devastating setback into an opportunity to inspire others.

Humorous Anecdotes

Want to instantly connect with your audience? Try sprinkling in some humor. A well-timed joke or absurd anecdote can break the ice and leave your listeners in stitches. Keep them on their toes with unexpected twists, and they’ll be hanging on your every word.

Darren LaCroix, a professional speaker, frequently uses humorous stories in his talks. Take a look at how he uses his stories of failure in this speech to motivate his crowd to chase their dreams.

Emotional Tales

Emotional tales have a way of grabbing our hearts and not letting go. These stories frequently revolve around individual challenges, the pain of loss, or powerful moments of clarity that reshape a person’s path forward.

One example of an emotional narrative speech is Steve Jobs’ 2005 Stanford Commencement Address , in which he shares three personal stories that shaped his philosophy on life and work. From his adoption story to his battle with cancer, Jobs’ tales are raw, honest, and deeply moving.

Motivational Narratives

Ever heard a story that made you want to jump up and take on the world? That’s the power of a motivational narrative. These inspiring tales feature everyday people doing incredible things—conquering challenges, chasing their passions, and proving that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

If you want to hear an inspiring tale, check out J.K. Rowling’s Harvard Commencement Speech . She shares her personal journey of failure and resilience, and how she used her imagination to create one of the most adored book series ever. It’s a beautiful story about the power of storytelling and never giving up on your dreams.

Want to hook your audience, tug at their heartstrings, and spur them to action? Take a look at some narrative speech examples from those who’ve mastered the craft. But as you do, don’t forget: your story, told in your unique voice, is the most powerful tool you have. Share it boldly, and watch as it transforms lives.

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FAQs on Narrative Speech Examples

How do you start a narrative speech.

Kick off with a hook that grabs attention. Maybe share an unexpected fact, ask a thought-provoking question, or launch into the heart of your tale.

What is an example of storytelling?

An example would be recounting how overcoming acute anxiety before a big job interview taught resilience and self-confidence.

Dive straight into setting the scene or introduce your main character in action. Let listeners feel they’re right there with you from the get-go.

What are examples of narrative speech?

Narrative speeches might explore personal growth through volunteering experiences or share humorous anecdotes about learning to drive. They weave personal stories to engage and enlighten audiences.

Storytelling is a timeless art that has the power to captivate, inspire, and transform. By studying these narrative speech examples, you’ve seen firsthand how weaving narratives into your presentations can create an emotional connection with your audience and make your message unforgettable.

In order to engage your audience, focus on your characters. Additionally, include details that engage the senses. And don’t be afraid to get a little personal. After all, your own experiences can be the most powerful stories of all.

With these tips in mind, go forth and tell your stories with passion, authenticity, and purpose. Your audience is waiting to be inspired by the narratives only you can tell. Happy storytelling!

• Last Updated: August 6, 2024

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Speech Analysis #2: The Art of Delivering Evaluations

The first article of the Speech Analysis Series explained how to study and critique a speech .

In this second article, we examine how to improve your own speaking skills by teaching others in the form of speech evaluations.

You should regularly provide evaluations for other speakers — not only because it is a nice thing to do, but because the process of evaluating another speaker helps you improve your own speaking skills dramatically .

• How to Study and Critique a Speech
• The Art of Delivering Evaluations
• Modified Sandwich Technique for Evaluations
• Evaluation Forms, Tools, and Resources
• Toastmasters Evaluation Contests

Speech evaluations are a core element of the Toastmasters educational program . After every speech, one or more peers evaluates how well the speaker delivered their message. Frequent feedback from peers helps speakers improve their skills.

However, speech evaluation is not limited to the Toastmasters program .

• You can evaluate a co-worker’s presentation.
• You can give feedback to the leader of a volunteer group in your neighbourhood.
• Or, in a more formal relationship, you might provide a critique to a client you are coaching.

I recently led a speech evaluation workshop . In that workshop, we discussed the following tips for delivering helpful, encouraging, and effective speech evaluations .

1. Effective speech evaluations benefit everyone

• You (as the evaluator) improve as a speaker by providing an evaluation. A great way to solidify your own knowledge is to teach it to others.
• The speaker becomes aware of both their strengths and areas with potential for improvement.
• The audience for the evaluation (if there is one, as in Toastmasters) benefits from hearing the evaluation and applying the lessons to their own presentations.
• Future audiences benefit from improved speakers.

2. Learn the objectives of the speaker.

Before the speech takes place, ask the speaker what their objectives are . Sometimes the objective is obvious, but not always.

Perhaps the speaker has just read the Presentation Zen book and is experimenting with a modern style of visuals which goes against common practice.

• If you know this, you can tailor your evaluation accordingly .
• If you don’t, you may unfairly criticize them for not considering the expectations of the audience.

3. Consider the skill level of the speaker… sometimes.

Evaluating the (very) inexperienced speaker: Treat novice speakers with extra care. Be a little more encouraging and a little less critical , particularly if they exhibit a high level of speaking fear. Compliment them on tackling their fear. Reassure them that they aren’t as bad as they imagine.

Be supportive. Ask them how they feel it went.

Evaluating the (very) experienced speaker : A common misconception is that you cannot evaluate a speaker if they are more experienced than you. This is false. Though you may have limited speaking experience, you have a lifetime of experience listening to presentations .

Your opinion matters. As a member of the audience, you are who the speaker is trying to reach . You are fully qualified to evaluate how well that message was communicated.

Every speaker, no matter how experienced, can improve. Perhaps more importantly, every speaker wants to improve. You can help.

4. Take advantage of available tools.

That’s a good formula when you’re learning the art of delivering evaluations, but to really improve your skills, you’ll want to start assembling the many tools at your disposal:

• Study other evaluators and apply their techniques.
• Solicit feedback from others on your technique.
• Develop evaluation templates or forms that work for you.
• Without video, you can only tell when a gesture could have been used.
• With a video recording, you can show exactly where a timely gesture could be used.

5. Be truthful.

If you did not like the speech, do not say that you did. If you did not like a component of the speech, do not say you did.

There is a tendency to want to be nice and embellish the positives. Dishonest praise will only damage your credibility and character .

6. Express your opinion.

Avoid speaking on behalf of the audience with phrases like “ Everyone thought… ” or “ The audience felt… ” You can only accurately talk about are your own thoughts and feelings.

On the other hand, suppose you observe a spectator crying as a result of an emotional speech. In this case, you can remark on this as evidence that the speech had emotional impact.

Magical phrases in a speech evaluation start with personal language: “ I thought… I liked… I felt… I wish… ”

7. Avoid absolute statements.

There are very few public speaking rules . For every best practice, there’s a scenario where a speaker would be wise to go against convention. Phrases such as “ You should never… ” or “ One should always… ” should rarely be part of an evaluator’s vocabulary.

8. Be specific. Use examples. Explain why.

How can you make sure that the constructive criticism doesn’t completely outweigh the praise and end up discouraging the speaker?

The answer: be specific . Studies have shown that specific praise is much more encouraging than generic praise . This applies to criticism as well. Specific feedback (positive or negative) is more meaningful than generic feedback. e.g. “ I liked the dynamic opening of your speech. ” is better than “ I liked your speech. ”

In addition to being specific and tying comments to examples from the speech, it also helps to explain why you liked or didn’t like a particular aspect of the speech.

Consider the effectiveness of the following four statements:

• “ Gestures were poor. “
• “ Gestures were limited in the first half of the speech. “
• “ Gestures were limited in the first half of the speech because the speaker gripped the lectern. “
• “ Gestures could have been improved in the first half of the speech. By removing her hands from the lectern, she could more easily make natural gestures. “

Statement #4 is phrased in a positive manner, it is specific, it references an example from the speech, and states why it is good not to grip the lectern.

9. Don’t evaluate the person or their objective.

Evaluate how well the message is delivered, not the messenger. Keep your comments focused on the presentation.

Similarly, avoid evaluating the speaker’s objective . For example, suppose the speaker’s objective is to convince the audience that recycling is a waste of time. If you always reduce, reuse, and recycle, don’t let that influence your evaluation. (By all means, start a debate about it later, write an article, give your own speech, etc.) As an evaluator, your primary role is to help the speaker achieve their objective in the most convincing way possible.

10. Evaluate whether the objective was achieved.

Everything other than the speaker themself and their primary objective is fair game for your evaluation: content, speech structure, humor, visuals, eye contact, gestures, intangibles, etc. and everything else covered in the first article from this series .

11. The best evaluations are a combination of praise, areas for improvement, and specific suggestions.

All three elements are essential, but can be mixed in numerous ways. This is the focus for the next article in this series: The Modified Sandwich Technique for Evaluations .

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25 comments.

True, there are few speaking rules that aren’t broken from time to time by the greats. But here are some that all should try honor:

1. Don’t bore the audience. 2. Don’t data dump. 3. Don’t be abstract. 4. Don’t leave out relevant examples. 5. Don’t leave out relevant stories.

TJ: You are not alone. Several of your guidelines were mentioned in the public speaking audience survey .

Great post about evaluations.

I like your model. Did you create it? It shows the often overlooked elements of speaking to help you improve as an evaluator.

Darren: Yes, I created the “You…Improve” model above for the speech evaluation workshop I conducted.

Dear Andrew Why can’t we print from the page, you have buttons for everything but a concise print page is missing? Thanks Mike

Hi, I am weak in the area of giving good critiques of fellow Toastmasters of Akron151 club in akron Ohio. I am an ATM-B. I am looking for feedback on giving better ones.

Robert: It’s a pretty common situation for many members. We can all improve. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

I find this very useful and handy in conducting speechcrafts for young students and in evaluating speakers in Toastmasters meetings. Effective evaluation opens positive opportunities for everyone.

ah…what a gift! I am scheduled to evauate a brilliant speaker tomorrow at our toastmasters meeting. Needless to say I’ve been feeling a bit apprehensive. You have resourced and empowered me…and I am grateful!

These articles are great. I am creating courses at the moment for drama undergraduates for whom English is a second, or third, language. I want to teach them techniques to evaluate dramatic speeches delivered by great models and each other, as a step towards being able to perform in English confidently and competently.

May I make use of some of your material? I would, of course, give you full credit and would comply with whatever restrictions you felt were appropriate.

Thanks for considering my request, regards, Kate

Check our permissions policy for restrictions on using article material.

Dear Andrew,

Thank you for helping me as a teacher who is and for the time going to teach a public speaking course. You website is really beneficial. After reading many public speaking articles from different sources, I found that some of them advocate that the speaker welcomes and thanks the audience and others like you for example don’t support this idea. As a listener or a speaker I would not mind if the speaker welcomes and/or thanks the audience. Most speeches especially classical ones include greeting and thanking statements. would you please give me your opinion about that? Thanks again.

I am neither strongly in favor nor strongly opposed to welcoming or thanking the audience. The decision depends a great deal on the nature of the event, length of the speech, cultural norms, and the comfort level of the speaker. Having said that, there’s a few things to consider:

[1] Lengthy welcome messages (“I’m pleased to be here… What a lovely day… thanks for inviting me… “) tend to be a weak way to open a speech. It is generally far more effective to launch directly into the speech. Occasionally, a short welcome statement can be used to transition into a powerful opening.

[2] I don’t oppose saying “Thank you” or “Thank you for your attention” to the audience, but there is rarely any need to say anything more verbose. A speaker’s last words should be a strong call-to-action… that’s what you want the audience to remember.

Hope this helps!

thank you for the article. it is informative and helpful; a good reference for my college students.

Sir/Madam; I am the VP PR of the 3500FT Toastmasters Club #1319, and responsible for our Newsletter. I find your comments & tips on speech evaluations enjoyable, very close to the mark. In particular, I loved the “thou shalt” graphic. May I use it in our March Newsletter? It would fit very well into a section dedicated to our newer members after a very successful membership drive. Please advise.

Sincerely, Bill Broens VP Public Relations 3500FT Toastmasters Club 1319, Calgary, AB

For using Six Minutes content, check our permissions policy .

I need to learn better evaluations…this helps.

This is what I have been looking for – on how to make evaluations more concise and precise !

Upon reading your corner, I found that it helped me in my speaking but I still need help in speaking and want to learn best tips! I am a member of Toastmaster but I still find I am not a great speaker and I want to be a great speaker with substance.

Fantastic articule. Very helpful. Im terrifying of evaluating and you explained well.

This was very well done! I could not have said it better myself/

excellent content

Thank you! Will use them for our Toastmaster’s meetings…

Great Article. Thanks

Very helpful info given here! New at being an evaluator and speaker! I appreciate all the information and the list of recommended reads! Thanks!

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@Kiwiseabreeze Toastmasters have some really good guidelines evaluating speeches, perhaps adapt to general feedback https://t.co/ZyMtRDzNKo — @Pikiora Nov 15th, 2015

Speech Analysis #2: The Art of Delivering Evaluations https://t.co/9hxk0e08qT by @6minutes — @SaDagher Dec 30th, 2015

Getting ready for Evaluation contests at Area level? Here are some tips to win the contest- https://t.co/mwU6s58WE2 — D83 Toastmasters (@D83Toastmasters) Mar 2nd, 2016

Speech Analysis #2: The Art of Delivering Evaluations https://t.co/Wn1OtwXRjI — @TeriHS Mar 5th, 2016

Speech Analysis #2: The Art of Delivering Evaluations https://t.co/c1PE3dOV4I by @6minutes — Sleiman Skaf (@SleimanSkaf) Apr 20th, 2016

Speech Analysis #2: The Art of Delivering Evaluations https://t.co/2Xq2jSddms — PMG (@pmg1970) Jul 10th, 2016

How to Deliver Effective Speech Evaluations https://t.co/x5G7nrusBO by @6minutes #Toastmasters — @SeemaSonkiya Feb 16th, 2017

Speech evaluations are an important part of #Toastmasters and a crucial #publicspeaking tool… https://t.co/hPv4prVBHE — @natpresstoastDC Apr 4th, 2017

How to Deliver Effective Speech Evaluations https://t.co/K1WIbujvPs by @6minutes — @timleaman_sun Apr 5th, 2017

Speech Analysis #2: The Art of Delivering Evaluations https://t.co/HmZAbijDEg — @michelselim Apr 10th, 2017

5 Blog Links

Speak Schmeak — Mar 1st, 2008

Speech Evaluations | Plantation Toastmasters — May 27th, 2012

How To Give Stronger Constructive Feedback to Presenters « Creating Communication — Sep 18th, 2012

Effective Speech Evaluations « Rockingham Speaks — Nov 27th, 2012

Fall 2012 Club Contest | — Jan 13th, 2013

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Trump keeps losing his train of thought. Cognitive experts have theories about why

By Olivia Goldhill Aug. 7, 2024

I n a speech earlier this year, former President Trump was mocking President Biden’s ability to walk through sand when he suddenly switched to talking about the old Hollywood icon Cary Grant.

“Somebody said he [Biden] looks great in a bathing suit, right? When he was in the sand and he was having a hard time lifting his feet through the sand, because you know, sand is heavy. They figure three solid ounces per foot. But sand is a little heavy. And he’s sitting in a bathing suit. Look, at 81, do you remember Cary Grant? How good was Cary Grant, right? I don’t think Cary Grant — he was good. I don’t know what happened to movie stars today,” he said at a March rally in Georgia. Trump went on to talk about contemporary actors, Michael Jackson, and border policies before returning to the theme of how Biden looks on the beach.

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This shifting from topic to topic, with few connections — a pattern of speech called tangentiality — is one of several disjointed and occasionally incoherent verbal habits that seem to have increased in Trump’s speech in recent years, according to interviews with experts in memory, psychology, and linguistics.

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Kamala Harris Addresses Economy In Speech—Here’s What To Know About Her Policy Agenda

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Vice President Kamala Harris unveiled more details about her economic agenda in a speech Friday in North Carolina, proposing an “opportunity economy” as the Democratic nominee focused on lowering the price of groceries and prescription drugs and addressing the housing crisis with an eye on bolstering the middle class.

Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at Wake Tech Community College in Raleigh, N.C., on Aug. 16.

Grocery Prices: The candidate would work in her first 100 days to help Congress pass a national ban on “price gouging” for food and groceries, as well as give the Federal Trade Commission and prosecutors authority to go after companies they determine price gouge, support small businesses in the industry, take a closer look at mergers between big grocery companies and “aggressively” investigate price-fixing in meat supply chains specifically.

Housing Costs: Harris wants to provide $25,000 in down payment assistance for first-time home buyers and is calling for the creation of three million new housing units within the next four years, proposing a tax credit for developers who build starter homes and investing $40 million in an innovation fund to tackle the housing crisis.

Rental Costs: Harris would also expand a tax credit for housing developers who build affordable housing rental units, and is calling on Congress to pass legislation that would stop predatory investors who buy up rental homes and collude with each other to raise rental prices.

Child Tax Credit: Harris proposed giving families a $6,000 tax credit for newborns in their first year of life, and restore a pandemic-era tax credit of $3,600 per child for middle and lower-class families.

Taxes: Harris also wants to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit for workers in lower-income jobs, which would cut taxes by up to $1,250, and has previously said she would continue President Joe Biden’s promise not to raise taxes on American households earning $400,000 or less annually, and does support raising taxes for high earners and corporations, according to The New York Times.

No Tax On Tips: Harris has separately endorsed a plan to get rid of taxes on tips for hospitality and service workers, echoing a proposal by former President Donald Trump—which has been criticized by some experts—though a campaign official told CNN tips would still be subject to payroll taxes, and would include an income limit and guardrails to prevent people like hedge fund managers from taking advantage of the policy.

Prescription Drug Prices: Harris proposed a $35 cap on insulin and capping out-of-pocket expenses on prescription drugs at $2,000 per year on Friday, also saying she would speed up Medicare negotiations on the price of prescription drugs—after the Biden administration announced a deal lowering costs on 10 medications—and crack down on anti-competitive practices in the pharmaceutical industry that cause higher prices.

Healthcare: The Harris campaign also announced her intention to work with states to cancel Americans’ medical debt, and she proposed expanding subsidies for Affordable Care Act plans that would save health insurance customers an average of $700 on their health insurance premiums.

Paid Leave: Harris has not released a specific paid leave proposal, but she has previously co-sponsored 12-week paid leave legislation, Politico notes, with Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., telling the outlet, “I absolutely believe that when they are in office, we will get a paid leave bill done finally.”

Minimum Wage: Harris called for raising the minimum wage in a Las Vegas speech earlier in August, but her campaign has not specified how high she believes it should be raised.

Fed Independence: Harris has vowed to maintain the Federal Reserve’s independence after Trump said he believed “the president should have at least [a] say” on the Federal Reserve’s decisions, with Harris telling reporters, “The Fed is an independent entity and as president I would never interfere in the decisions that the Fed makes.”

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Crucial Quote

Harris said Friday she’d be “laser focused on creating opportunities for the middle class” if elected president, calling for “an economy where everyone can compete and have a real chance to succeed.” “Now is the time to chart a new way forward, to build an America where everyone’s work is rewarded and talents are valued, where we work with labor and business to strengthen the American economy, and where everyone has the opportunity not only to get by, but to get ahead,” the vice president said.

What To Watch For

Harris said in her North Carolina speech that she intends to unveil more economic proposals in the weeks ahead. The vice president has still not issued a full policy platform or unveiled proposals for policy issues beyond the economy, and those are also expected in the near future.

How Do Harris’ Policies Compare With Biden’s?

Harris’ economic policy agenda is largely in line with Biden’s economic platform, with some tweaks to emphasize causes that are more important to her, like the child tax credit. “Same values, different vision,” a Harris aide told The Guardian. “She’s not moving far away from him on substance, she will highlight the ones that matter most to her.” The initial plans from Harris’ campaign also suggest the vice president plans to be more aggressive in her policy approaches than Biden, however, as polls have suggested voters hold dim views of how the president has handled the economy. While Biden has also opposed price gouging, Harris’ proposal to enable the FTC and U.S. attorneys to go after companies that hike up prices goes beyond what the president has proposed, Politico notes , and her proposed $40 million investment in the housing crisis is double the amount the Biden administration spent.

Harris’ economic agenda released Friday didn’t go fully in depth about her proposals, which The New York Times reports is by design. The Times reported prior to Harris’ speech that the Harris campaign has adopted a “strategic vagueness” for her economic proposals, believing that being more of a “blank slate” will help ward off attacks and attract more support from business groups.

How Do Harris’ Policies Compare With Trump’s?

Trump’s economic agenda is largely focused on raising tariffs on imported goods, which Harris has said she opposes. The ex-president has also called for cutting taxes and regulations in hopes of lowering inflation, including lowering the corporate tax rate, and has encouraged increasing oil production in order to lower energy prices. In addition to his “no tax on tips” proposal that Harris has also endorsed, Trump has called for ending taxes on Social Security benefits, which Harris has not yet responded to. Experts believe the ex-president’s proposal could speed up Social Security and Medicare becoming insolvent, with the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget projecting exempting taxes on benefits would result in Social Security and Medicare receiving $1.6 trillion less in revenue between 2026 and 2035. The Trump campaign opposed reports of Harris’ economic proposals Wednesday, with spokesperson Steven Cheung saying in a statement, “Kamala Harris can’t hide from her disastrous record of skyrocketing inflation … Americans are struggling under the Biden-Harris economy, and now she wants to gaslight them into believing her bald-faced lies.”

42%. That’s the share of voters who trust Harris more to handle the economy, according to a Financial Times/University of Michigan poll released Sunday, versus 41% who trust Trump more. That’s down from Trump holding a six-point lead over Biden in July, though the poll also showed 42% believe a Trump presidency would leave them better off financially, while only 33% said the same for Harris.

Key Background

Harris became the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee in July after Biden stepped down suddenly from the presidential race, following weeks of pressure over mounting concerns about his mental fitness. While the vice president has quickly garnered Democrats’ support and risen in the polls, Harris has released few concrete policy proposals in the first few weeks of her campaign—drawing some criticism as a result—with her speech Friday expected to be the most substantive remarks she’s given on policy so far. Her focus on the economy comes as polling has repeatedly shown it’s the most important issue to voters in this election cycle, with the vice president hoping to attract support amid low approval ratings for Biden’s handling of the economy. Harris’ speech also comes days after news that inflation fell in July to its lowest point in more than three years, with federal data released Wednesday showing inflation at 2.9% in July, the first time it’s been below 3% since March 2021.

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'Daily Show' brutally mocks Trump's attempt to make an 'intellectual' speech

Donald Trump's recent promise to give an "intellectual" speech on the economy while campaigning in North Carolina on Wednesday resulted — somewhat unsurprisingly — in the former president and Republican presidential candidate waffling on about Joe Biden, Kamala Harris' laugh, and even Barack Obama.

"Girl, you gotta move on. He does not think about you," says Daily Show host Desi Lydic in the clip above, playing a sequence of clips from Trump's speech while offering her own exasperated commentary.

In the final clip Trump holds up two boxes of Tic Tacs, one bigger and one smaller, as an apparent example of "inflation".

"That is not an example of inflation, that's just two different sizes of breath mints," says Lydic. "I mean my understanding of macro economics is limited, but I do know for a f***ing fact that inflation is not defined as big Tic Tac, little Tic Tac."

For more Daily Show coverage of the election race, we've rounded it up here .

Topics The Daily Show Politics

Sam Haysom is the Deputy UK Editor for Mashable. He covers entertainment and online culture, and writes horror fiction in his spare time.