The outline is one of the most central elements necessary for a good oral presentation. Outlines should include several major elements:
The thesis statement (main idea) of your speech
The main points you will use to support your thesis statement
The way you will organize your ideas throughout the speech
The transitions you will use to move from one idea to another throughout the presentation
Any references that will be used in the presentation (keep in mind that the "bag" speech is a personal speech, therefore, references are usually not required in this speech choice)
Topic:
Before you begin planning your speech, you should select a general topic. According to your text, there are three main categories for informative speaking: speech of description, speech of definition and speech of demonstration. Please select a topic in one of these three categories.
Speech of description: explains an object, person, event or process.
Speech of definition: defines a system or theory, or describes the similarities and/or differences among terms or systems.
Speech of demonstration: shows the audience how to do something or how something operates.
Things to consider when selecting a topic:
Select a topic that interests you. You are encouraged to choose something related to your degree program.
Select a topic that would interest your audience.
Select a topic that you know something about. (Do not select a topic you lack information on and attempt to research it just for this speech). You should have a general understanding of the topic and conduct research for further understanding and specifics.
Select a topic you can cover in 4-7 minutes. For example, you would not be able to explain how to knit or repair an engine in 4-7 minutes. You may be able to discuss one specific aspect of these topics, such as how to cast on stitches or measure a spark plug gap, but you would not be able to explain either of these activities as a whole.