Great Topic Ideas for Demonstrative Speeches
How to Choose a Subject for a Process or Demonstration Speech
Sep 25, 2009
Demonstration speeches are often the most favored speeches in public speaking class. The organization is built into the topic itself, and if a familiar subject is chosen, the step-by-step process makes the speech easy to remember.
However, there are some caveats. Details are extremely important in this type of speech. Leaving out even the smallest step, or assuming that the audience knows more about the topic than they do, can lead to unexpected and unintentional results. It's important to choose a topic carefully, to think through all the steps as if doing them for the first time, and to be precise.
Things to Consider When Planning a Demonstration Speech
Different instructors will set up different guidelines for this speech. Be sure to know exactly what's expected. Are props required? Is classroom participation expected? Here are some things to consider when narrowing down the topic.
- Proper time frame – Is the topic too complicated or too simple to meet the time requirements as stated by the instructor?
- Personal interests and those of the audience – Choosing an interesting topic helps ensure that the audience will be able to follow the directions.
- The physical lay-out of the room – Demonstrating dance steps or gymnastic tumbles, for instance, may be difficult in a crowded space.
- Personal skills and abilities – This is a "teaching speech." The likelihood of success increases when the speaker shares information with which he or she is familiar. Start by considering the following:
Choosing a Topic for the Demonstration Speech
- How to play a sport or game
- How to do a craft: a scrap book, tie-dyed shirt, flower arrangement
- How to raise a type of fruit, vegetable or animal
- How to make or build something: a model, structure, candle, favorite food
- How to repair something: dry wall, dents, scratched paint
- How to draw something: cartoons, animals, people, landscapes
- How to use something: chopsticks, computer program, social networks
- How to find something: ancestors, solutions to a math problem, one's BMI
- How to do a trick: magic, cards, yo-yo's
- The proper way to do something: fold a flag, tie a tie, set a table
- How to clean or care for something -- leather, carpeting, golf clubs, aquariums, pools
- Any specific skill not included above -- how to braid hair, say something in sign language, play an instrument
How to Give a Demonstration Speech
Begin by telling listeners what the speech is about and why they should know how to do it. Then describe the details step-by-step, clearly and in order. Be sure to conclude each step before moving on to the next one. Use visual aids and involve the audience in the activity as appropriate or required by the instructor.
Finally, don't forget to end with a solid conclusion so that the instructor and the audience both know when the speech is finished.
The possible topics for a demonstration speech are almost limitless. Pick an interesting subject, know it well, and think it through in detailed steps. Consider the audience and one's timing, then finish strong.
 |
