• Informative speeches (aim to increase the audience’s understanding and knowledge of a topic). • Persuasive speeches (intended to influence the beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors of the audience). • Special-occasion speeches (given at common events such as weddings, funerals, and other gatherings).

• The speaking situation • The information their culture provides about public speaking • Their knowledge about the speaker • Situational factors such as the time of day of the speech, events happening in the outside world, and the comfort and attractiveness of the room

• Expert testimony • Lay testimony • Scientific research findings • Statistics • Anecdotes • Quotations • Comparisons and contrasts

• Credibility (from a reputable source • Timeliness (up-to-date information) • Accuracy (accurate information) • Compelling information (grabs the audience’s attention)

• Trustworthiness • Respectfulness • Responsibility • Fairness