How to Create a Classroom Speech
Watch a real student example, learn how to organize your ideas, and use two free worksheet pages to build your next classroom presentation.
Watch a real student speech
In this archived speech, JC argues that artificial intelligence creates more opportunities than threats. As you watch, focus on how the speaker organizes the argument.
JC Speech · 3 min 50 sec · Uploaded in 2023 · English captions available through the player’s CC menu.
Five things to notice
- The opening: A “would you rather” question gives the audience a choice to consider.
- The preview: The speaker introduces three areas: ease of use, scalability and cost efficiency.
- The support: Listen for examples and references to sources, then ask how each supports the point being made.
- The transitions: Words such as “first,” “next” and “finally” signal the order of the argument.
- The ending: The conclusion returns to the main argument and asks the judge for a decision.
Use this historical student example to study speech structure. For your own presentation, choose your own topic and verify the evidence and sources you use.
Build your own classroom speech
How do you organize a classroom speech?
Choose one clear message. Open with a reason to listen, develop a few points with evidence and examples, and close with the takeaway you want your classmates to remember. Practice aloud within your teacher’s time limit.
1. Check the assignment and choose your message
Read your teacher’s instructions for the purpose, time limit, sources and visual aids. Then complete this sentence on page one: “After my speech, I want my audience to understand or believe…”
2. Write an opening that leads into your topic
Try a question, a brief experience or an imagined situation that your classmates can picture. Connect it to your main message promptly.
Practice example: a fictional school-library proposal
“Imagine you have a presentation after lunch and want a quiet place to practice. Where would you go? I’m proposing a lunchtime library trial that could give students another option.”
3. Give each point evidence and an explanation
Use the planner’s three point boxes to organize your ideas. For each one, write what you want to say, the evidence or example you will use, and why it matters to your audience.
For the library example, you could gather student survey responses or interview the librarian. Record the source and explain what the information shows. Follow your assignment’s requirements for the number of points and citations.
4. Make the order easy to follow
Write a short preview and transitions between sections. If you use slides, give each slide one clear job, such as showing a chart or illustrating an example. Check that classmates can read it from the back of the room.
5. Rehearse, get feedback and finish clearly
Use page two for three practice rounds. First, check whether your message makes sense. Next, time the full speech. Finally, practice your delivery with the notes and visuals you will use in class.
Ask a listener: “What was my main point?” and “Where did you need more explanation?” End with the takeaway or specific action you want the audience to remember.
For additional guidance on purpose, audience and organization, see the UNC Writing Center’s speech guide.
Classroom speech questions
Should I memorize my classroom speech?
Follow your teacher’s instructions. When notes are allowed, use a short outline and practice explaining each point comfortably. Learn your opening and closing well enough to deliver them clearly.
Can I use these worksheets for a different topic?
Yes. Use your own topic and your teacher’s requirements. The message, opening, evidence, sources, rehearsal and reflection prompts can support many informative or persuasive classroom speeches.
What should I do if I forget my next point?
Pause, take a breath and check your next keyword if notes are permitted. Continue with the next idea. Practice this recovery step during a rehearsal so you have a plan.
Keep building your speaking skills
Explore opportunities to practice public speaking, organize arguments and receive feedback through Capitol Debate.
Explore public speaking & debate campsRead more: How preparation helps overcome public speaking fear