SENIOR SPEECHES:

Reflecting on the Past, Looking to the Future

For the final writing assignment, all seniors will write a 5-minute speech in which they reflect on their education and development up to this point in their lives. You are also welcome to mention what you envision in your future. Unlike a graduation speech, you will not be speaking for your class; this is a personal speech. You should keep your audience in mind, however, as you select your topic and your approach. Some possible ideas to get you started:

· What events have played an important part of your high school career? It needn’t be something earthshaking, such as winning an award; it could be something as small as an A on a quiz that make you decide you could pass a class.

· How have you changed as a person since you started high school? Since kindergarten?

· Where do you see yourself in ten years?

· How do your classmates see you? How do you see yourself?

· What lessons have you learned in high school, either inside or out of the classroom?

Once you’ve narrowed your topic, think about specific details. Don’t just say “I’ve been very involved”; a sentence such as “I’ve gleaned sweet potatoes and painted backdrops” is much more vivid.

You will be graded both on the content of your speech and your delivery. It is very important that you practice your speech beforehand. Make sure you’re speaking clearly, making eye contact, and standing up straight. You should also make sure your speech falls between 4 and 6 minutes in length.

We will start giving the speeches Monday, May 20. Each day, your teacher will draw 5 names, and those students will be asked to go. If anyone is not ready on his/her appointed day, that person will go on the next day and lose 10 points from the total score. In other words, everyone should be prepared to give the speech on Monday.

Dr. Busonik and Ms. Thompson would like to give the senior class our best wishes as you head off to careers and college. The school won’t be the same without you!

Rubric

____ Delivery (30 points)

The speaker is loud and clear.
The speaker exhibits good posture and makes eye contact.
The speaker uses an expressive, natural tone of voice.

____ Specific details (30 points)

The speaker uses specific details to back up general statements.
The chosen details are vivid and interesting.

____ Organization (15 points)

The speech has a clear introduction and conclusion.
The author uses transitions between main points.

____ Thoughtfulness (15 points)

The speech addresses the assignment in a thoughtful, clear manner.

____ Time limit (10 points)

The speech is no less than 4 and no more than 6 minutes in length.

____ Total

____ Grade