#speechwriting | Ms Claire Duffy

5 min read

Writing Arguments | THE ESSENTIALS

I could call this 'Communication Lessons from a wise old Greek'. Aristotle’s ‘Rhetorical Triangle‘ (ethos pathos logos) is well known...

3 min read

Speechwriting Step 1: Define your purpose

The spoken word and the written word are different, and the key to success for speakers is being good to listen to. A speech is an oral...

2 min read

Speechwriting step 2: the rough draft

Let’s assume you followed the advice in the first post in this series. Your head is full of things you want to say and you have clarified...

3 min read

Speechwriting step 3: architecture

A ‘pattern of arrangement’ is a way of ordering the contents of your speech. It provides the listener with a sense of shape and...

4 min read

Speechwriting Step 4: write the words

1. Allow enough time The biggest mistake most people make is to underestimate how long this takes. Speeches may appear unstudied,...

3 min read

Speechwriting step 5: Rehearse and re-edit

In theatre there are staging calls, and technical rehearsals, and dress rehearsals, all of which give the performers an opportunity to...

3 min read

Step 6: You’re on!

If your script were a cake, the last step is to bake it. You’ve done a lot of work on the preparation, now you need to make sure it...

2 min read

Developing the speech

Notice I avoid saying ‘write the script’. The spoken word and the written word are different, and this presents a trap for speakers. The...

3 min read

Shape and Structure | Arrange your stuff

The way you assemble your material is crucial for making the right impact. There are some basic components which any essay or ...

3 min read

Oral Presentations: Finish with oomph

How do you close in a way that makes them feel galvanised, reinforces your message and makes you memorable? Not by shuffling and...

Ms Claire Duffy