Chapter 9: Introductions and Conclusions
By Warren Sandmann, Ph.D.
Minnesota State University, Mankato, MN
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
After reading this chapter, you should be able to:
- List and describe the four functions of an introduction
- List and describe the common types of attention getters
- Describe and implement strategies for preparing introductions
- List and describe the four functions of a conclusion
- List and describe common types of conclusions
- Describe and implement strategies for preparing conclusions
- Apply chapter concepts in review questions and activities
Chapter Outline
- Introduction
- Functions of Introductions
- Gain Attention and Interest
- Gain Goodwill
- Clearly State the Purpose
- Preview and Structure the Speech
- Attention-Getting Strategies
- Tell a Story
- Refer to the Occasion
- Refer to Recent or Historical Events
- Refer to Previous Speeches
- Refer to Personal Interest
- Use a Startling Statistic
- Use an Analogy
- Use a Quotation
- Ask a Question
- Use Humor
- Preparing the Introduction
- Construct the Introduction Last
- Make it Relevant
- Make it Succinct
- Write it Out Word for Word
- Functions of Conclusions
- Prepare the Audience for the end of the speech
- Present Any Final Appeals
- Summarize and Close
- End with a Clincher
- Appeals and Challenges
- Composing the Conclusion
- Prepare the Conclusion
- Do Not Include any New Information
- Follow the Structure
- Conclusion
- Review Questions and Activities
- Glossary
- References