Requirements for the speech are as follows: Length: 850-1000 words
Must include:
Introduction section- Thesis statement with a clear topic, arguable claim, and proof
Context and/or Definition section
A body which discusses at least three main points (in other words, 3 or more body paragraphs)

Opposing side section- Conclusion
At least 4 sources (5 for Seniors)
At least one of your sources MUST be from the opposing side.

Introduction - The job of your introduction is to catch your audience’s attention, introduce the subject matter of your speech, and guide them to your thesis.

Thesis Statement - This should be the last sentence of your introduction. A good thesis statement will explain the topic of the speech, make an arguable claim, and provide proof. The arguable claim is the most important part of your thesis statement, and your thesis statement is the most important line of your entire speech. You can use the “Developing a Thesis Statement” handout from the SELU Writing Center for help.
Note: An arguable claim is not a statement of fact and it will not include an opinion. Therefore, do not use phrases such as “I think” or “I believe” in your thesis.

Context and/or Definition - The purpose of this section of your speech is to provide necessary background understanding for your audience. Explain in your own words what issue you are addressing, why it matters, and cite evidence from your sources if necessary. In a film review, the context section takes the form of a brief plot summary, which allows the audience of the review to understand the points the speaker is making. You will do the same thing, but you will provide context for the issue or topic you are discussing.

Body - As with an essay you must include “body paragraphs.” The body section of your paper is where you will be arguing your claim. In other words, the body of your speech is where you are proving you are correct about the issue you are discussing. This is another good place to use evidence from your research.

Each body paragraph needs to discuss one part of your claim. To put it another way, each body paragraph is supporting your thesis by arguing one specific part of the claim.

Opposing Side - Any given issue will typically have at least two sides, or disagreeing points of view. Your chosen topics are no exception. In order to fully understand your topic and argue your claim, you need to understand what the opposing side has to say about the issue. Your speech must address the concerns of the opposing side and have their position on the issue explained. However, once you have addressed the opposing side’s argument, you must then provide a counter argument.

Conclusion - Your conclusion serves the opposite purpose of your introduction. In your conclusion you will summarize your overall argument, then end your speech by explaining how people can use the information they just learned. Note, however, that your conclusion should not simply restate your introduction. This is a new paragraph with a different purpose, not an excuse to reuse content from earlier in your speech.