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Purpose
The purpose of a four minute speech is to develop the skills of speaking informatively on a significant issue.
Definition
A four-minute speech should be primarily informative in nature, although persuasive elements may be present.
Aim
The first aim of the speaker should be to present well-developed, coherent, unified, and clear material. It is best to follow the basic outline of introduction, body, and conclusion.
The second aim of the speaker is to support the material through the use of quotations, statistics, examples, comparisons, and analogies.
The third aim of the speaker is to develop the use reference skills.
Rules
The speech must be the original work of the speaker.
Visual aids are not permitted.
Maximum time limit is four minutes.
Use of note cards is optional.
Suggestions
Try to choose a topic which is important or interesting to the majority of the audience.
Avoid a "trivial" topic.
Emphasize your main point or idea through careful organization.
Use effective language skills and vivid, forceful world choices.
Use effective vocal presentation skills such as articulation, volume, pace, and pitch.
Use effective physical presentation skills such as facial expression, eye contact, gestures, and bodily movement.