Deep Through the Diaphragm

Today's lecture was a fine example of the saying, 'time flies when you're having fun!'
Tony had the class up on our feet, with a practical lesson on how our breathing benefits our voice. I am pretty lucky I have a friend in the class, otherwise I would have been a little embarrassed singing by myself.

Tony explained how so many people don't breathe deep enough to project their voice. I must admit, I think I am one of those people who 'breathe and talk through their throat' so when I'm trying to talk loudly, I sound like I'm trying to screech. I will begin to focus breathing ALL the way down to my diaphragm, and who knows, maybe there's a hidden opera voice down there.

I know I will be nervous giving my speech though. I'd prefer to speak in front 200 people than the 15 in my class. My theory is, if I can't see them, they can't see me. But there will be no hiding from the uni students waiting on my wise words of wisdom. (or just waiting for me to finish my speech so they can go back on Facebook)

My speech is in 2 weeks, and because I have some medical trips to do next Wednesday, I will be missing the first round of speeches. Best of luck!

Persuading our Peers

The art of persuasion must be in sync with the type of audience we are persuading. If I made a five minute speech on why pink is a better colour than grey, I bet that I would leave with almost all the females on my side. However, no matter how hard I tried, I'm not sure I could completely persuade the males. Unless, that is, I knew how to pitch a perfect persuasive speech.

That's what we started covering in class this week. Our next assessment is to write a five minute persuasive speech about anything in the world. Sounds pretty simple, right? That's what I thought too, until I realized there are quite a few elements to consider.

There are four questions we should ask ourselves before constructing a speech.

1. Why am I giving this speech?
2. What do I want them to know?
3. How will I know I have achieved this?
4. How much time do I have?

The layout of a persuasive speech is much like the inverted pyramid, in my opinion. 

Firstly, there are the "must-know" facts - the most important aspects of the speech, and if you had to choose, these would be the facts the audience must know. 

Secondly, there are the "could know" facts - the interesting aspects that provide additional understanding.

Lastly, there are the "if time permits-maybe" facts - all elements in this category should be add on's that you won't mind being cut.

I'm not sure what I'm going to do my speech on yet; the opportunities really are endless. At least I am going into this aware of difference elements I need to consider.