- Think about a speech that you would like to present on a topic of your choice. You can use the same speech topic that you selected in Unit 1 or choose a new one.
- The speech can be for any context and any length. See the list of example speech occasions and purposes for inspiration.
- Download and answer each question in the the Unit 2 Touchstone Template based on the speech you are thinking of: Touchstone_2_Template.doc
- Consider your audience, purpose, and thesis and complete Part 1 of the template.
- Utilize your program resources, the internet or a local library to find three credible sources that are relevant to your speech and complete Part 2 of the template.
- Read through your sources to identify five pieces of evidence that support your thesis and complete Part 3 of the template. Be sure to use at least three different types of sources (example, statistic, analogy, definition, visual, story, testimony).
- Review the rubric to ensure that you understand how you will be evaluated. Ask a learning coach if you have any questions.
- Review the checklist and requirements to ensure that your Touchstone is complete.
- Submit your completed Unit 2 Touchstone Template.
NOTE: Units 3 and 4 both require a persuasive speech topic. If you select a persuasive topic in this unit, you will have the opportunity to build and improve on the same speech in the next two units.
Speech Occasions
Personal
- Speech at a special event (anniversary, wedding, birthday, graduation, funeral etc.)
- Demonstration presentation (showing how to do something)
- Product analysis and/or recommendation
Academic
- Presenting academic work (paper, research, report)
- Present original creative work
- Academic speech and debate
Community
- Speech at a community gathering (PTA meeting, boy/girl scout convention, town hall, homeowner’s association, athletic league, school board meeting, etc.)
- Community action speech (asking for something, promoting a policy, or communicating a community initiative, etc.)
- Political speech (on behalf of a candidate, yourself as candidate, etc.)
Business
- Presenting to staff (new initiatives, pep talks, announcements, etc.)
- Presenting to colleagues or peers (idea sharing, status updates, brainstorming, etc.)
- Presenting to superiors (project proposal, project plan, project summary, etc.)
- Convention presentation (pitching new products, rally speech, teachable moments, etc.)
Submission checklist
_ I have completed all aspects of the template.
_ My answers demonstrate thoughtful consideration of each question.
_ I have selected sources that are credible and relevant.
_ I have selected five pieces of support that are relevant to my thesis.
_ I have selected three or more different kinds of support.
_ I have adhered to all of the requirements.
_ I have read through the rubric and I understand how my Touchstone will be evaluated.
Requirements
- All writing must be appropriate for an academic context
- Follow academic writing conventions (correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting)
- Composition must be original and written for this assignment; plagiarism of any kind is strictly prohibited
- Use a readable 11- or 12-point font
- Submission should include your name and the date
- Submit a single file only, including the answers to all questions
- Acceptable file formats include .doc, .docx, and .pdf
