Discussion #2 - 10/5

Response to Speech Buddy Interactive Videos

7.1
The first video was very informative and supported the information that I read in Chapter 7. All the different tools that can be used to support the main topic of a speech are effective if used properly. I have used all of the different supporting materials at some point in my speech-making career. Narratives and testimonies can really help the audience relate to the speech topic, and make the speech more clear to them. Definitions and statistics are also helpful in driving home the main idea of a speech as they solidify the foundation of the speech itself.

7.2
Video 7.2 brings up a good point about determining whether a media source is reliable or not. Often, we assume that the written or spoken word found on the internet/television is accurate. In this day and age, however, that may not always be the case. Because it is much easier to broadcast yourself today (ie: Blogs) the reliability of all the material in the media can be questionable. Information found on television can also be inaccurate. Sometimes it isn't the inaccuracy of the facts presented but the point of view of the person giving them. For example, if the opinion of a republican is being given on the presidential debates is/her point of view may be biased. Therefore, even though the interview may be broadcasted on CNN (a highly reputable and reliable source) the point of view of the speaker may be the exact opposite of what someone else may think. Thus, it's always important to not only determine the reliability of the source of information but also what perspective the source has.

8.1
The patterns of speech organization are pretty straightforward. I understood all of the different organizations and tried to come up with examples for each style.

Chronological: Speech the rise and fall of the Roman empire.
Spatial: Structural benefits of steroid isomers.
Topical: The different types of birth control available to women today.
Casue-and-effect: Effects of different types of eating habits in children.
Problem solution: Dealing with a divorce.

8.2
Transitions are also important aspects of speeches. Without proper transitions our speeches would be choppy. The lack of smooth transitions can also hinder the audience in following the organization and content of our speeches.