Outline the Speech

Printed Page 13

An outline is the framework upon which to arrange the elements of your speech in support of your thesis. Outlines are based on the principle of coordination and subordination—the logical placement of ideas relative to their importance to one another. Coordinate points are of equal importance and are indicated by their parallel alignment. Subordinate points are given less weight than the main points they support and are placed to the right of the points they support. (For a full discussion of outlining, see Chapter 12 and Chapter 14.)

COORDINATE POINTS

  1. Main Point 1
  2. Main Point 2
    1. Subpoint 1
    2. Subpoint 2

SUBORDINATE POINTS

  1. Main Point 1
    1. First level of subordination
      1. Second level of subordination
      2. Second level of subordination
        1. Third level of subordination
        2. Third level of subordination

As your speeches become more detailed, you will need to select an appropriate organizational pattern (see Chapter 13 and Chapter 24). You will also need to familiarize yourself with developing both working and speaking outlines (see Chapter 14). To allow for the full development of your ideas, working outlines generally contain points stated in complete sentences. Speaking outlines are far briefer and use either short phrases or key words. Speaking outlines are printed out on separate sheets or written on 40 x 60 index cards for use during the speech.