The Art of Public Speaking 12Th Edition By Stephen Lucas – Test Bank

Complete Test Bank With Answers

 

 

Sample Questions Posted Below

 

CHAPTER 5

Selecting a

Topic and a

Purpose

T

he questions for each chapter are organized according to type: true-false, multiple-choice, short-

answer, and essay. Within each of these categories, questions are clustered by topic, roughly

following the order of topics in the textbook.

To provide as much flexibility as possible in constructing examinations, there is deliberate overlap

among the questions, both within and across question types. This enables you to choose the wording

and question type that best fits your testing objectives. In deciding which questions to use, take care to

avoid items such as a multiple-choice question that gives away the answer to a true-false or short-

answer question, or an essay question that covers essentially the same ground as a true-false, short-

answer, or multiple-choice question.

Each type of question—true-false, multiple-choice, short-answer, and essay—has an automatic

numbering system, which means you can copy and paste items from within a question type, and they

will automatically number themselves consecutively, beginning with “1.” The five answer choices for

each multiple-choice question are also ordered automatically, so you can add, change, or reorder answer

choices without rearranging the lettering.

If you would like to preserve the fonts, indents, and tabs of the original questions, you can copy

and paste questions into the Exam Master provided at the end of the Test Bank. In the Exam Master,

spaces for your course name, exam type, and the student’s name and section are followed by headings

and instructions for true-false, multiple-choice, short-answer, and essay questions. You can add

elements unique to your exams and delete elements you don’t want to use. After you customize the

Exam Master, you can save it with your changes. Then, each time you open it, click “Save As” to give

it the name of the exam you are currently constructing.69

TEST BANK FOR THE ART OF PUBLIC SPEAKINGCHAPTER 5—SELECTING A TOPIC AND A PURPOSE 70

True-False Questions

1. 2. T F T F 3. 4. T F T F 5. 6. T F T F 7. T F 8. T F 9. T F 10. T F 11. T F 12. T F 13. 14. T F T F 15. T F 16. T F The first step in speechmaking is choosing a topic for your speech.

Outside the classroom, the topic of a speech is usually determined by the occasion, the

audience, and the speaker’s qualifications.

It is usually a poor idea to choose a speech topic that requires research.

You should usually avoid drawing on your personal knowledge or experience when

choosing a speech topic.

You should usually avoid choosing speech topics that you feel strongly about.

Brainstorming is a method of generating ideas for a speech through free association of

words and ideas.

Brainstorming is a way of clearing your mind so you can relax while choosing a

speech topic.

No matter how you go about choosing a speech topic, it is important to start the

process early.

After choosing a topic, the next step in speech preparation is determining your central

idea.

Once you choose the central idea of your speech, the next step is to formulate your

general purpose.

After choosing a topic, the next step in speech preparation is determining your general

purpose.

After choosing a topic, the next step in speech preparation is determining your specific

purpose.

Most often, your general purpose as a speaker is to inform or to persuade.

Most often, a speaker’s general purpose will fall into one of two categories—to

inform or to demonstrate.

The difference between informing and persuading is like the difference between

explaining and entertaining.

When your general purpose is to persuade, you act as a teacher or lecturer.71

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17. T F 18. 19. T F T F 20. T F 21. T F 22. T F 23. T F 24. T F 25. T F 26. T F 27. T F 28. T F 29. T F 30. T F 31. T F The difference between informing and persuading is like the difference between

teaching and advocating.

When your general purpose is to inform, you act as an advocate or an opponent.

The specific purpose statement indicates precisely what the speaker hopes to

accomplish in a speech.

The specific purpose reveals more about the content of a speech than does the central

idea.

The specific purpose of a speech usually “sums up” the main points to be developed in

the body of the speech.

The following is an example of an effective specific purpose statement for a speech:

“The three major elements of the architectural style of Frank Lloyd Wright are low-

pitched roofs, functional designs, and lines that blend into the landscape.”

The following is an example of an effective specific purpose statement for a speech:

“The five most common types of volcanoes are the cinder cone volcano, the shield

volcano, the strato-volcano, the giant caldera, and the fissure volcano.”

The specific purpose statement should focus on one aspect of a topic and be expressed

in a single infinitive phrase.

“To inform my audience of the major steps in responding to a medical emergency” is

an example of an effective specific purpose statement for an informative speech.

“To inform my audience of the major accomplishments of the space shuttle program”

is a well-worded specific purpose statement for an informative speech.

“To inform my audience about the current status of tennis as an international sport” is

an example of an effective specific purpose statement for a speech.

“To inform my audience about the causes and effects of bullying” is an example of an

effective specific purpose statement for a speech.

“To persuade my audience that our school should provide more on-campus parking

for students” is an example of a well-worded specific purpose statement for a

persuasive speech.

“To persuade my audience that the federal government should require seat belts on all

school buses” is an example of a well-worded specific purpose statement for a

persuasive speech.

“To inform my audience about cybercrime” is an example of a well-worded specific

purpose statement for an informative speech.CHAPTER 5—SELECTING A TOPIC AND A PURPOSE 72

32. T F 33. T F 34. T F 35. T F 36. T F 37. T F 38. T F 39. T F 40. T F 41. T F 42. T F 43. T F 44. 45. T F T F 46. T F 47. T F “To inform my audience about depression” is an example of an effective specific

purpose statement for a speech.

“To inform my audience about golf” is an example of an effective specific purpose

statement for a speech.

“The effects of light pollution in major cities” is an example of a well-worded specific

purpose statement.

“The problem of electronics addiction” is an example of an effective specific purpose

statement for a persuasive speech.

“Conducting regular car maintenance” is an example of an effective specific purpose

statement for a speech.

“The case against multivitamins” is an example of an effective specific purpose

statement for a speech.

It is important to keep your audience in mind as you formulate the specific purpose for

your speech.

Whether the general purpose of your speech is to inform or to persuade, the specific

purpose statement should contain a reference to your audience.

“To explain how to keep your Internet data secure” is an example of a well-worded

specific purpose statement.

“To explain three basic hand-sewing techniques” is an example of a well-worded

specific purpose statement.

“To explain the causes and treatment of compulsive hoarding” is an example of a

well-worded specific purpose statement.

“To persuade my audience that the investigation and prosecution of sexual assaults in

the military should be conducted by civilian authorities” is an example of a well-

worded specific purpose statement.

A specific purpose statement should usually be phrased as a question.

“What should you consider when choosing a study abroad program?” is an example of

a well-worded specific purpose statement for a speech.

“What can we learn about ourselves from our dreams?” is an example of a well-

worded specific purpose statement for a speech.

It is acceptable for a specific purpose statement to include two unrelated ideas.73

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48. T F 49. T F 50. T F 51. T F 52. T F 53. T F 54. 55. T F T F 56. T F 57. T F 58. T F 59. T F 60. T F 61. T F 62. T F “To inform my audience about the origins of martial arts and how to perform yoga” is

an example of an effective specific purpose statement for an informative speech.

“To inform my audience how to build a birdhouse and about the migratory patterns of

birds” is an example of an effective specific purpose statement for a speech.

The central idea reveals more about the content of a speech than does the specific

purpose.

The central idea of a speech often emerges after you have done your research and

have decided on the main points of the speech.

The central idea is usually determined after the bulk of the research for a speech is

completed.

The central idea should encapsulate or sum up the main points to be developed in the

body of the speech.

The central idea of a speech should be expressed as a full sentence.

The following is an example of a well-worded central idea for a speech: “A diet that

encourages eating only foods high in fat and protein has major advantages as well as

serious risks.”

“To persuade my audience that the federal government should institute a national

sales tax to help pay for social programs” is an example of an effective central idea for

a speech.

“The four steps in making cheese are curdling, draining, pressing, and ripening” is an

example of a well-worded central idea for a speech.

“The three most distinctive traits of Chow Chows are their black tongues, their thick

coats, and their manes” is an example of a well-worded central idea for a speech.

“The three major expenses for people traveling abroad are transportation, food, and

lodging” is an example of an effective specific purpose statement for a speech.

“The three major expenses for people traveling abroad are transportation, food, and

lodging” is an example of a well-worded central idea for a speech.

“The major responsibilities of an athletic trainer are preventing, diagnosing, and

treating injuries” is an example of a well-worded central idea for a speech.

“The major responsibilities of an athletic trainer are preventing, diagnosing, and

treating injuries” is an example of a well-worded specific purpose statement for a

speech.CHAPTER 5—SELECTING A TOPIC AND A PURPOSE 74

63. T F The following is an effective central idea for a speech to persuade: “You should vote

for a $10 increase in student fees to pay for a new fitness center because the current

one is too small and its equipment is out of date.”

Multiple-Choice Questions (Students are to indicate the best answer for each

question by circling the correct letter.)

1. According to your textbook, brainstorming is especially helpful when you are having trouble

a. choosing a speech topic.

b. determining the general purpose.

c. determining the specific purpose.

d. phrasing the central idea.

e. analyzing the audience.

2. The process of generating ideas for speech topics by free association of words and ideas is

known as

a. linking.

b. aggregating.

c. deliberating.

d. brainstorming.

e. advocating.

3. Which of the following does your textbook recommend as a method of brainstorming for a

speech topic?

a. clustering

b. taking a personal inventory

c. conducting an Internet search

d. all of the above

e. a and c only

4. After choosing a topic, what is the next step of speech preparation?

a. phrasing the central idea

b. analyzing the occasion

c. selecting the specific purpose

d. writing the introduction

e. determining the general purpose

5. Which of the following is inappropriate in a speech to inform?

a. advocating

b. explaining

c. reporting75

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d. demonstrating

e. telling

6. Advocating a position is most appropriate when the general purpose of your speech is to

a. persuade.

b. inspire.

c. deliberate.

d. entertain.

e. inform.

7. When the general purpose of your speech is to __________ , you act primarily as a teacher or

lecturer.

a. inform

b. convince

c. entertain

d. persuade

e. convert

8. When the general purpose of your speech is to __________ , you act primarily as an advocate.

a. persuade

b. entertain

c. demonstrate

d. commemorate

e. inform

9. According to your textbook, what is the most important early step in the process of developing a

successful speech?

a. creating a preliminary bibliography

b. researching for speech materials

c. formulating the specific purpose

d. brainstorming for a central idea

e. selecting the residual message

10. The __________ expresses precisely what you hope to accomplish with your speech.

a. central idea

b. specific purpose

c. preview statement

d. thesis statement

e. goal statement

11. According to your textbook, the specific purpose for a speech should

a. include a reference to the audience.CHAPTER 5—SELECTING A TOPIC AND A PURPOSE 76

b. be written as a full infinitive phrase.

c. be expressed as a question.

d. all of the above.

e. a and b only.

12. According to your textbook, the specific purpose statement for a speech should be

a. determined after the central idea.

b. written using figurative language.

c. the same as the title of the speech.

d. limited to one distinct idea.

e. expressed as a question.

13. “To inform my audience about the history of the Super Bowl” is an example of a

a. speech topic.

b. general purpose.

c. central idea.

d. thesis statement.

e. specific purpose.

14. “To inform my audience about the three basic steps in preventive medicine” is an example of a

a. main point.

b. specific purpose.

c. thesis statement.

d. central idea.

e. general purpose.

15. “To inform my audience about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of Hodgkin’s Disease” is an

example of a

a. specific purpose.

b. thesis statement.

c. general purpose.

d. central idea.

e. main point.

16. “To inform my audience about the four major elements in rope climbing” is an example of a

a. speech topic.

b. general purpose.

c. central idea.

d. thesis statement.

e. specific purpose.77

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17. “To inform my audience about the contributions of Navajo code talkers to the U.S. military

during World War II” is an example of a

a. thesis statement.

b. central idea.

c. topic statement.

d. statement of intention.

e. specific purpose.

18. “To inform my audience about the history of the Congressional filibuster” is an example of a

a. specific purpose.

b. topic statement.

c. thesis statement.

d. central idea.

e. statement of intention.

19. “To inform my audience how our local water treatment facility ensures the safety of our drinking

water” is an example of a

a. mission statement.

b. specific purpose.

c. transition statement.

d. general purpose.

e. central idea.

20. “To inform my audience about the history and rules of curling” is an example of a

a. speech topic.

b. general purpose.

c. central idea.

d. thesis statement.

e. specific purpose.

21. “To inform my audience about the development, technology, and benefits of hydrogen fuel cells”

is an example of a

a. central idea.

b. topic sentence.

c. specific purpose.

d. transition.

e. speech topic.

22. “Improving our sleep habits” is a poorly phrased specific purpose for a speech because it is

a. b. too technical for a classroom speech.

written as a sentence rather than a declarative phrase.

c. expressed in figurative language.CHAPTER 5—SELECTING A TOPIC AND A PURPOSE 78

d. e. written as a fragment rather than a full infinitive phrase.

written as a statement rather than a question.

23. “Learning how to deal with stress” is a poorly phrased specific purpose for a classroom speech

because it

a. is written as a fragment instead of as a full infinitive phrase.

b. is written as a statement rather than as a question.

c. does not include a reference to the audience.

d. all of the above.

e. a and c only.

24. “To explain the three major benefits of cycling as a form of exercise” is a poorly phrased specific

purpose statement because it

a. is too broad.

b. deals with more than a single topic.

c. lacks a reference to the audience.

d. all of the above.

e. a and b only.

25. “To explain how to write an effective job résumé” is a poorly phrased specific purpose statement

because it

a. is too specific.

b. contains figurative language.

c. is written as a statement instead of a question.

d. does not include a reference to the audience.

e. is too trivial.

26. “To inform my audience that learning digital photography is a piece of cake” is a poorly phrased

specific purpose statement for a speech because it

a. b. c. d. e. is written as a statement rather than as a question.

is written as an infinitive phrase rather than as a statement.

fails to encapsulate the main points of the speech.

is made up of more than one distinct idea.

is expressed using figurative language.

27. “To persuade my audience that continuing to spend money on the space program is like throwing

good money after bad” is a poorly phrased specific purpose statement for a speech because it is

a. expressed in figurative language.

b. written as a declarative sentence rather than a question.

c. too technical.

d. all of the above.

e. a and c only.79

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28. “Abandoning nuclear power because of accidents would be like throwing the baby out with the

bath water” is a poorly phrased specific purpose statement for a persuasive speech because it

a. is written as a statement rather than as a question.

b. is missing a reference to the audience.

c. contains figurative language.

d. all of the above.

e. b and c only.

29. “To persuade my audience to give blood regularly and to become an organ donor” is a poorly

phrased specific purpose statement for a classroom speech because it

is not relevant to this audience.

contains more than one distinct idea.

a. b. c. d. is written as a statement instead of a question.

is too technical for this audience.

e. uses figurative language.

30. “To inform my audience about the basic steps in car maintenance and how to protect their

investment with auto insurance” is a poorly phrased specific purpose statement for a classroom

speech because it

a. is too specific.

b. contains figurative language.

c. is written as a statement instead of a question.

d. contains more than one distinct idea.

e. is too technical.

31. “To persuade my audience to volunteer regularly in their community and to join the Peace Corps

after college” is a poorly phrased specific purpose statement for a classroom speech because it

a. is too personal.

b. c. d. is written as an infinitive phrase.

contains more than one distinct idea.

is too technical for a student audience.

e. uses figurative language.

32. Identify the flaw in the following specific purpose statement for a classroom speech: “Should

juvenile prisons be eliminated?”

a. b. c. It is too political for a classroom speech.

It is stated as a question, not as an infinitive phrase.

It is too technical for this audience.

d. It contains figurative language.

e. It isn’t informative enough.CHAPTER 5—SELECTING A TOPIC AND A PURPOSE 80

33. Identify the flaw in the following specific purpose statement for a classroom speech: “Should

stand-your-ground laws be repealed?”

a. It contains figurative language.

b. It contains more than one distinct idea.

c. It is stated as a question, rather than as an infinitive phrase.

d. It treats a topic that is too political for a classroom speech.

e. It is stated as a question, rather than as a statement.

34. As a specific purpose statement, “To inform my audience about computer technology” is too

a. figurative.

b. broad.

c. trivial.

d. impersonal.

e. detailed.

35. Identify the flaw in the following specific purpose statement for a classroom speech: “To inform

my audience about the solar system.”

a. It’s too general.

b. It’s too shallow.

c. It’s too informative.

d. It’s too remote.

e. It’s too impersonal.

36. Identify the flaw in the following specific purpose statement for a classroom speech: “To inform

my audience about the stock market.”

a. It’s too figurative.

b. It’s too detailed.

c. It’s too general.

d. It’s too technical.

e. It’s too trivial.

37. As a specific purpose statement, “To inform my audience about climate change” is too

a. broad.

b. scientific.

c. speculative.

d. personal.

e. detailed.

38. Identify the flaw in the following specific purpose statement for a classroom speech: “To inform

my audience about Hinduism.”

a. It’s too technical.

b. It’s too broad.81

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c. It’s too personal.

d. It’s too figurative.

e. It’s too specific.

39. The specific purpose of Stephanie’s informative speech is “To inform my audience about

economics.” Are there any flaws in Stephanie’s specific purpose?

a. b. c. d. e. No. Stephanie has a strong specific purpose statement.

Yes. Stephanie’s specific purpose is too impersonal.

Yes. Stephanie’s specific purpose is written as a statement rather than a question.

Yes. Stephanie’s specific purpose mentions her audience.

Yes. Stephanie’s specific purpose is too broad.

40. Charity’s specific purpose statement for her classroom informative speech is “To inform my

audience about the changes in Medicare benefits for next year.” According to your textbook, are

there any flaws in Charity’s specific purpose?

a. b. c. d. e. No. Charity has a strong specific purpose statement.

Yes. Charity’s specific purpose statement is too broad.

Yes. Charity’s specific purpose should have been expressed as a question.

Yes. Charity’s specific purpose statement is not relevant to her audience.

Yes. Charity’s specific purpose statement is too trivial for her audience.

41. Cesar’s specific purpose for his classroom informative speech is “To inform my audience how to

load apps onto their cell phones.” According to your textbook, are there any flaws in Cesar’s

specific purpose?

a. b. c. d. e. No. Cesar has a strong specific purpose statement.

Yes. Cesar’s specific purpose should have been expressed as a complete sentence.

Yes. Cesar’s specific purpose is too trivial for this audience.

Yes. Cesar’s specific purpose contains more than one distinct idea.

Yes. Cesar’s specific purpose is too technical for this audience.

42. Sky’s specific purpose statement for his classroom informative speech is “To inform my

audience how to change a tire.” According to your textbook, are there any flaws in Sky’s specific

purpose?

a. b. c. d. e. No. Sky has a strong specific purpose statement.

Yes. Sky’s specific purpose statement is too detailed.

Yes. Sky’s specific purpose statement is too general.

Yes. Sky’s specific purpose should have been expressed as a question.

Yes. Sky’s specific purpose contains more than one distinct idea.

43. The __________ is a one-sentence statement that sums up or encapsulates the major ideas of a

speech.

a. specific purposeCHAPTER 5—SELECTING A TOPIC AND A PURPOSE 82

b. central idea

c. introduction

d. general purpose

e. outline

44. The central idea of a speech should be

a. expressed as a question.

b. written as a complete sentence.

c. determined before the specific purpose.

d. all of the above.

e. b and c only.

45. As explained in your textbook, the central idea of a speech should be

a. phrased as a question.

b. free of figurative language.

c. determined before the specific purpose.

d. all of the above.

e. a and b only.

46. The central idea of a speech should be

a. written as a complete sentence.

b. expressed as a statement, not a question.

c. devoid of figurative language.

d. all of the above.

e. a and b only.

47. As explained in your textbook, the central idea of your speech

is usually formulated after you have done some research.

is more precise than your specific purpose statement.

sums up or encapsulate the major ideas of your speech.

d. all of the above.

a. b. c. e. b and c only.

48. According to your textbook, the central idea of a speech should

a. encapsulate the major ideas of your speech.

b. be phrased as a statement rather than a question.

c. be determined as soon as you decide on your topic.

d. all of the above.

e. a and b only.

49. “The laser is a highly versatile instrument with important uses in medicine, industry, and art” is

an example of a83

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a. specific purpose.

b. central idea.

c. transition.

d. general thesis.

e. topic statement.

50. “The most common types of sleep disorders are insomnia, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and

sleepwalking” is an example of a

a. general purpose.

b. thesis statement.

c. transition.

d. central idea.

e. specific purpose.

51. “The three major types of bows used in archery are the long bow, the recurve bow, and the

compound bow” is an example of a

a. transition.

b. general purpose.

c. specific purpose.

d. thesis statement.

e. central idea.

52. “The three major factors to consider when purchasing a bicycle are the kind of riding you plan to

do, the amount of riding you plan to do, and the amount of money you are willing to spend” is an

example of a

a. specific purpose.

b. central idea.

c. transition.

d. general purpose.

e. topic statement.

53. According to your textbook, “Getting an internship is a challenging experience with great

rewards” is an example of a(n)

a. speech proposal.

b. specific purpose.

c. informative thesis.

d. topic statement.

e. central idea.

54. “The three kinds of bait used to attract fish are live bait, prepared bait, and artificial bait” is an

example of a

a. transition.CHAPTER 5—SELECTING A TOPIC AND A PURPOSE 84

b. central idea.

c. specific purpose.

d. topic statement.

e. general thesis.

55. “The three main methods of harvesting trees in professional logging are selective cutting, clear

cutting, and row thinning” is an example of a

a. specific purpose.

b. transition.

c. general purpose.

d. signpost.

e. central idea.

56. “You can increase your gas mileage by reducing the weight in your car, doing regular

maintenance, and reducing your driving speed” is an example of a

a. topic statement.

b. general thesis.

c. specific purpose.

d. transition.

e. central idea.

57. “The value of a classic car is determined by its condition, its rarity, and its desirability to

collectors” is an example of a

a. speech goal.

b. transition statement.

c. specific purpose.

d. mission statement.

e. central idea.

58. “Denying a college education to children of illegal immigrants is like cutting off your nose to

spite your face” is a poorly phrased central idea for a persuasive speech because it is

a. too technical.

b. expressed in figurative language.

c. written as a statement instead of as a question.

d. all of the above.

e. b and c only.

59. “Our current gun control laws are all bark and no bite” is a poorly phrased central idea for a

persuasive speech because it is

a. b. expressed as a statement rather than as a question.

expressed as a full sentence.

c. expressed in figurative language.85

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d. all of the above.

e. a and c only.

60. “Repealing the Affordable Care Act now would open a real can of worms” is a poorly phrased

central idea for a persuasive speech because it

a. is too trivial.

b. c. d. is written as a full sentence.

fails to contain a reference to the audience.

reveals the speaker’s point of view.

e. contains figurative language.

61. “When Edward Snowden let the cat out of the bag, he ruined our country’s intelligence system”

is a poorly phrased central idea for an informative speech because it

a. is written as a full sentence.

b. reveals the speaker’s point of view.

c. contains figurative language.

d. all of the above.

e. a and c only.

62. “The major parts of a motion-picture camera” is a poorly phrased central idea for an informative

speech because it

a. contains figurative language.

b. is expressed as a fragment rather than a full sentence.

c. fails to refer to the audience.

d. all of the above.

e. a and c only.

63. “Awesome NASCAR racers” is a poorly phrased central idea for an informative speech because

it is

a. expressed in figurative language.

b. written as a fragment instead of as a full sentence.

c. too technical.

d. all of the above.

e. a and b only.

64. “What should be done about the problem of identity theft?” is a poorly phrased central idea for a

persuasive speech because it is

a. is too technical.

b. is expressed in figurative language.

c. phrased as a question instead of as a statement.

d. all of the above.

e. a and b only.CHAPTER 5—SELECTING A TOPIC AND A PURPOSE 86

65. “What are the four steps in making pottery?” is a poorly phrased central idea for an informative

speech because

a. it is written as a question rather than a statement.

b. it doesn’t refer to the speaker’s credibility.

c. it uses figurative language.

d. all of the above.

e. a and b only.

Short-Answer Questions

1. When your general purpose is to _______________ , you act as a teacher or lecturer.

inform

2. When your general purpose is to _______________ , you act as a partisan or an advocate.

persuade

3. The _______________ reveals precisely what the speaker hopes to accomplish in his or her

speech.

specific purpose statement

4. List three questions you should ask about the suitability of your specific purpose for your

audience.

a.

b.

c.

Is the purpose relevant to my audience?

Is the purpose too trivial for my audience?

Is the purpose too technical for my audience?

5. “To persuade my audience that the U.S. space program should be continued because it provides

important benefits to society” is an example of a _______________ .

specific purpose statement

6. Explain what is wrong with the following poorly written specific purpose statement for a

persuasive speech: “To persuade my audience that something must be done about America’s

national debt.”

It is too general; it does not indicate what “must be done.”87

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7. The _______________ usually encapsulates the main points of your speech in a single sentence.

central idea

8. The _______________ indicates precisely what the speaker intends to say in the speech.

central idea

9. “The three steps to breaking a bad habit are becoming conscious of the habit, keeping a log of

what triggers the habit, and finding a way to avoid or substitute for the habit” is an example of a

_______________ .

central idea

10. Explain what is wrong with the following poorly written central idea for an informative speech:

“Will an asteroid destroy the earth?”

It is written as a question rather than as a statement.

11. Explain what is wrong with the following poorly written central idea for a persuasive speech:

“Lawyers who promote frivolous personal injury suits are just a bunch of greedy bums!”

It is expressed with figurative language.

12. What is wrong with the following specific purpose statement for an informative speech? Rewrite

the statement to conform with the criteria given in your textbook for effective specific purpose

statements.

Ineffective

Specific Purpose: To inform my audience about the principles of aerodynamics and how to

build a kite.

Error:

More Effective

Specific Purpose:

Error: More Effective

Specific Purpose: contains more than one distinct idea

To inform my audience about the principles of aerodynamics.

OR, To inform my audience about how to build a kite.

13. What is wrong with the following specific purpose statement for an informative speech? Rewrite

the statement to conform with the criteria given in your textbook for effective specific purpose

statements.CHAPTER 5—SELECTING A TOPIC AND A PURPOSE 88

Ineffective

Specific Purpose: Error:

More Effective

Specific Purpose:

Error: To inform my audience about the Civil War.

too vague or general; doesn’t indicate what specific aspects of the Civil War

will be dealt with in the speech.

More Effective

Specific Purpose: [any specific aspect of the Civil War:] To inform my audience about the role

of women in the Civil War.

14. What is wrong with the following specific purpose statement for an informative speech? Rewrite

the statement to conform with the criteria given in your textbook for effective specific purpose

statements.

Specific Purpose: The major attractions of the annual Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival.

Error:

More Effective

Specific Purpose:

Error: doesn’t include the general purpose or a reference to the audience

More Effective

Specific Purpose: To inform my audience about the major attractions of the annual Bonnaroo

Music and Arts Festival.

15. What is wrong with the following specific purpose statement for an informative speech? Rewrite

the statement to conform with the criteria given in your textbook for effective specific purpose

statements.

Specific Purpose: To explain the major beliefs of the Baha’i religion.

Error:

More Effective

Specific Purpose:

Error: doesn’t include a reference to the audience

More Effective

Specific Purpose: To inform my audience about the major beliefs of the Baha’i religion.89

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16. What is wrong with the following specific purpose statement for a persuasive speech? Rewrite

the statement to conform with the criteria given in your textbook for effective specific purpose

statements.

Ineffective

Specific Purpose: To persuade my audience that something must be done to curb the problem

of computer theft on our campus.

Error:

More Effective

Specific Purpose:

Error: More Effective

Specific Purpose: too vague or general; doesn’t specify what should be done

[example:] To persuade my audience that tighter security measures are

needed in dorms and offices to curb the problem of computer theft on our

campus.

17. Supply the general purpose, specific purpose, and central idea for a speech with the following

main points:

General Purpose:

Specific Purpose:

Central Idea:

Main Points: I. II. III. The first type of weapon used in modern fencing is the foil.

The second type of weapon used in modern fencing is the épée.

The third type of weapon used in modern fencing is the sabre.

General Purpose: To inform

Specific Purpose: Central Idea: To inform my audience about the three types of weapons used in modern

fencing.

The three types of weapons used in modern fencing are the foil, the épée,

and the sabre.CHAPTER 5—SELECTING A TOPIC AND A PURPOSE 90

18. Supply the general purpose, specific purpose, and central idea for a speech with the following

main points:

General Purpose:

Specific Purpose:

Central Idea:

Main Points: I. The first factor determining the value of a baseball card is the fame of

II. III. IV. the player.

The second factor determining the value of a baseball card is the age

of the card.

The third factor determining the value of a baseball card is the rarity

of the card.

The fourth factor determining the value of a baseball card is the

physical condition of the card.

General Purpose: To inform

Specific Purpose: To inform my audience of the major factors that determine the value of a

baseball card.

Central Idea: The major factors that determine the value of a baseball card are the fame

of the player, the age of the card, the rarity of the card, and the physical

condition of the card.

19. Supply the general purpose, specific purpose, and central idea for a speech with the following

main points:

General Purpose:

Specific Purpose:

Central Idea:

Main Points: I. II. III. Our self-esteem is shaped by our immediate family.

Our self-esteem is shaped by our interactions with friends.

Our self-esteem is shaped by the media.

General Purpose: To inform

Specific Purpose: To inform my audience of three factors that shape our self-esteem.

Central Idea: Our self-esteem is shaped by our immediate family, by our interactions with

friends, and by the media.91

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20. Supply the general purpose, specific purpose, and central idea for a speech with the following

main points:

General Purpose:

Specific Purpose:

Central Idea:

Main Points: I. II. III. IV. The first step in writing a successful essay is prewriting.

The second step in writing a successful essay is drafting.

The third step in writing a successful essay is revising.

The fourth step in writing a successful essay is editing.

General Purpose: To inform

Specific Purpose: To inform my audience of the four steps in writing a successful essay.

Central Idea: The four steps in writing a successful essay are prewriting, drafting,

revising, and editing.

21. Supply the general purpose, specific purpose, and central idea for a speech with the following

main points:

General Purpose:

Specific Purpose:

Central Idea:

Main Points: I. II. III. The first major part of the brain is the cerebrum.

The second major part of the brain is the cerebellum.

The third major part of the brain is the brain stem.

General Purpose: To inform

Specific Purpose: To inform my audience of the three major parts of the brain.

Central Idea: The three major parts of the brain are the cerebrum, the cerebellum, and

the brain stem.

22. Supply the general purpose, specific purpose, and central idea for a speech with the following

main points:

General Purpose:

Specific Purpose:

Central Idea:CHAPTER 5—SELECTING A TOPIC AND A PURPOSE 92

Main Points: I. II. III. IV. V. The first step in making red wine is harvesting the grapes.

The second step in making red wine is preparing the grapes.

The third step in making red wine is fermenting the grapes.

The fourth step in making red wine is pressing the grapes.

The fifth step in making red wine is aging the wine.

General Purpose: To inform

Specific Purpose: To inform my audience of the basic steps in making red wine.

Central Idea: There are five basic steps in making red wine: harvesting the grapes,

preparing the grapes, fermenting the grapes, pressing the grapes, and

aging the wine.

23. Supply the general purpose, specific purpose, and central idea for a speech with the following

main points:

General Purpose:

Specific Purpose:

Central Idea:

Main Points: I. II. III. IV. V. The first stage in dealing with grief is denial.

The second stage in dealing with grief is anger.

The third stage in dealing with grief is bargaining.

The fourth stage in dealing with grief is depression.

The fifth stage in dealing with grief is acceptance.

General Purpose: To inform

Specific Purpose: To inform my audience about the five stages in dealing with grief.

Central Idea: The five stages in dealing with grief are denial, anger, bargaining,

depression, and acceptance.

24. Supply the general purpose, specific purpose, and main points for a speech with the following

central idea:

General Purpose:

Specific Purpose:

Central Idea: The three major causes of decaying bridges in the United States are

overloading, weather, and neglect.93

TEST BANK FOR THE ART OF PUBLIC SPEAKING

Main Points:

General Purpose: To inform

Specific Purpose: To inform my audience of the three major causes of decaying bridges in the

United States.

Main Points: I. The first major cause of deteriorating bridges in the United States is

II. III. overloading.

The second major cause of deteriorating bridges in the United States

is weather.

The third major cause of deteriorating bridges in the United States is

neglect.

25. Supply the general purpose, specific purpose, and main points for a speech with the following

central idea:

General Purpose:

Specific Purpose:

Central Idea: Devil’s Island was called “the prison from which there is no return”

because escape was virtually impossible and because large numbers of

prisoners died there.

Main Points:

General Purpose: To inform

Specific Purpose: To inform my audience why Devil’s Island was called “the prison from which

there is no return.”

Main Points: I. II. Devil’s Island was called “the prison from which there is no return”

because escape was virtually impossible.

Devil’s Island was called “the prison from which there is no return”

because large numbers of prisoners died there.CHAPTER 5—SELECTING A TOPIC AND A PURPOSE 94

26. Supply the general purpose, specific purpose, and main points for a speech with the following

central idea:

General Purpose:

Specific Purpose:

Central Idea: The three major styles in the history of ballet are classical ballet,

neoclassical ballet, and contemporary ballet.

Main Points:

General Purpose: To inform

Specific Purpose: Main Points: I. II. III. To inform my audience about the three major styles in the history of ballet.

The first major style in the history of ballet is classical ballet.

The second major style in the history of ballet is neoclassical ballet.

The third major style in the history of ballet is contemporary ballet.

Essay Questions

1. Your textbook discusses four methods of brainstorming for a speech topic. In a brief essay,

identify and explain three of those methods.

2. Explain the differences between informing and persuading as general speech purposes.

3. Why is determining the specific purpose such a vital step in the process of preparing a speech?

4. Your textbook provides five tips for writing specific purpose statements. Identify and briefly

explain four of them.

5. What is the difference between a specific purpose and a central idea? Illustrate your answer by

developing a specific purpose statement and a central idea for a hypothetical speech about a topic

of your choice.95

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6. What are the characteristics of a well-worded central idea? Explain why each characteristic is

important.

7. Imagine that you have been asked to inform a local community group about life as a college

student. In a well-developed essay, describe what your general purpose, specific purpose, and

central idea would be for this speech. Then draft three main points for a speech on this topic.

8. Imagine that you have been asked to talk to a group of visiting high school seniors about the

process of applying to college. In a well-developed essay, describe what your general purpose,

specific purpose, and central idea would be for this speech. Then draft three main points for a

speech on this topic.