Chapter 11:

This chapter was mainly about organizing the body of speech, and how to structure it in terms of introduction, body, conclusion. This was definitely a familiar set up, as most essays are structured this way, and generally using this format as an outline will provide the most linear version of a speech or body of text. This includes tools like main points, theses, and supporting evidence. The chapter also talks about restricting the number of main points, as too many will overwhelm the audience, and that the first and last points made will often be the most remembered. This struck me, as I had never thought about there being specific points in a speech that were more memorable, though it makes sense. Transitions are also a key point in this, and it’s definitely important to remember that abrupt transitions are disjointing to the audience, and are more likely to distract your audience rather than keep them engaged with the speech.

Chapter 12:

This chapter had mostly some good information about different types of patterns of organization, like a causal pattern or a spatial pattern. I like that there are guides for multiple types, as different paths make sense for different subjects. They often can overlap, like causal and chronological, but it’s a good idea to have a pattern in mind that is the most effective towards your speech topic when preparing. This is definitely something I had never considered before, but it makes a lot of sense. Keeping the audience engaged with the subject of the speech is important, and just like with transitions, having a wonky pattern will throw off the listener. Unrelated information shouldn’t lead into each other, and basing the main points in your speech off of a specific pattern will lend you to sounding much more put together and organized.