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Memorable 2-Minute Speeches: How to Write & Deliver (With Examples)

Hrideep barot.

• Public Speaking , Speech Topics , Speech Writing

Giving memorable 2-minute speeches are tricker than giving 2-minute speeches. 

Speeches are an effective way to share your understanding, opinion, or perspective on a topic. It doesn’t matter if your speech is for 2 minutes, 10 minutes, or 50 minutes, the main essence of any speech is to reach the audience .

2-minute speeches are quite effective if presented in a well-structured manner. In fact, giving 2-minute speeches can also help you improve your public speaking skills. And that is the reason why schools ask the students to give 2-minute speeches for every assignment!

Now we understand you might have tons of questions when it comes to 2-minute speeches, but fret not, we’ve got you covered. Read till the end of the blog to get a more comprehensive idea about 2-minute speeches. 

Also, check out our video here if you want a very short glimpse of the article:

Is a 2-minute speech too short?

2-minute speeches come under the category of short speeches. So ideally 2 minute speeches are short speeches . But when we say is it too short? Then the answer will be subjective. 

For instance, If you are to present your research findings then a 2-minute speech would not do justice to years of your work. But at the same time if you are giving a self-introduction then 2 minute speeches are more than enough!

How long is a 2-minute speech?

To understand how long 2-minute speeches should be, you need to understand your pace of speaking which is the number of words spoken per minute.   An average person usually speaks about 130-150 words per minute . So for 2-minute speeches, 260-300 words should be sufficient. 

When it comes to the number of pages for a 2-minute speech, then your speech can be half to one page long . It all depends on the font size that you use!

Similarly, the number of sentences that would make up a 2-minute speech can vary depending on the font size that you use or your handwriting.

Writing 2-minute speeches

1. choose a topic.

The very first step in writing your speech is to know what you want to talk about, which is your topic !

You can either come up with the topic yourself or you can search for a broad topic on the internet and then narrow it down as per your liking. 

So if for example, you are writing a 2-minute speech on unity as strength , you may want to focus on a particular instance wherein unity shown by people worked as their strength and helped them achieve a goal, like a freedom struggle.  

2. Decide on your takeaway

 If you are wondering what takeaways are, then they are your answer to the question “why are you presenting this particular topic to the audience?”

For some the answer could be, to educate, give another perspective on a widely studied topic, or even awaken the audience to take action . 

In 2 minute speeches, the clock ticks faster so you should ideally focus on only 1 takeaway . 

Once you have figured out why you want to present the topic to your audience or listeners, you can then move to the next stage of research. 

3. Research for your speech

When you begin researching for 2 minutes speeches, you don’t have to get into tons of details . The idea is to give the audience enough information to understand your topic within a short time.

For starters, you can browse your topic on Google , YouTube , Instagram , and other social media channels. You might also want to research some facts or statistics related to your topic as it increases the credibility of your speech.

4. Structure your speech

There are 3 things to be kept in mind while structuring your speech. They are ethos, pathos, and logos. 

Ethos means credibility . It is concerned with giving the audience a reason to believe in you. So, if your speech is about the impact of gaming on violent behavior, mentioning that you are a psychologist would add credibility to your speech. 

Pathos is related to emotions . The idea is to connect with the listeners through emotions. And the easiest way to do that is through stories !

In the example above, you can share a story of a client who developed violent behavior patterns after spending a considerable amount of time on gaming and how they are doing now.

Logos means logic . Adding logical elements like facts, statistics, and quotes by famous personalities helps drive your main idea forward in a more rational sense. 

Again, taking the example of the impact of gaming on violent behavior, logos could include a sentence like:

School shootings have increased from 11 in 2009 to 93 in 2021. It is a staggering number and when you take a deeper look into it, you’ll find that a considerable number of these shooters were addicted to gaming.

Editing is something we believe is a very crucial part of giving a memorable 2-minute speech. Why?

Because 2-minute speeches aren’t only about what you say but also about what you choose not to say. 

Editing also helps you focus on your topic more clearly rather than drifting or diversifying your topic.

Delivering 2-minute Speeches

1. establish your takeaway.

Since you had already decided on your takeaway while writing the speech, you are well aware of it. But does your audience have any idea yet? No!

While they might infer why you are presenting the particular topic after listening to your speech, you cannot leave it to that. 

Establish your takeaway right at the beginning of your speech , so that the audience also understands what they can expect from your speech. 

2. How to begin a 2 minute Speech (Simple beginning)

This might come as a shocker, especially because we are always told to begin with a Bang! 

For 2-minute speeches, if you end up spending a lot of your time on the beginning, you will have to shorten the main content of your speech. 

Starting in a simple and direct manner suits best in such cases. 

A few ways in which you can begin your 2-minute speeches are given below:

If you are to introduce yourself, you can begin simply by saying your name. “Good afternoon everyone, I am Xyz…”

You can also use ethos, pathos, and logos to begin your 2-minute speeches. 

“Mumbai is known for 2 things gateway of India and potholes. Being someone who has lost a close friend of mine due to the careless work done towards these potholes , I’m here to address the issue we so conveniently drive over”

“About a year ago, in this very month of July, it was raining heavily in Mumbai. I remember this because there happened to be a friend of mine who was supposed to meet me for a meeting, we had that day, but he didn’t make it. The reason? Heavily flooded roads covered with potholes that he couldn’t see. A tragic accident or a convenient murder?”

“In 2018, Mumbai alone witnessed 522 accidents caused by potholes”

3. Emphasize

Repeating or rather stressing certain words gives rhythm to your speech. It also helps in easy learning and increases the chance of easy recall among the audience. 

4. How to End a 2 Minute Speech

When it comes to 2-minute speeches, your conclusion or closing lines are very important. The reason is that your audience will mostly remember the last part of your speech better than the rest . 

Make sure to restate the takeaway and main crux of your speech . You can also end your speech by quoting some famous personalities . In many speeches, the speaker asks the audience to take action or to think about a question that they leave the audience with. 

So, we now know how your phone helps you socialize but keeps you away from the same people physically. We have been living in this virtual world for quite some time now. The least you can do is to keep your technology aside especially when you are with people you care about. An hour without your phone won’t hurt, will it?

Impromptu 2-minute speeches

Impromptu speeches are ones where you are given the topic on the spot with little to no time to prepare for the speech. In such cases, you barely have any time to go about carrying out thorough research and structuring your speech. 

Rather you can keep a few frameworks in your mind and then structure the speech accordingly on the spot. This is the most convenient way of delivering effective impromptu 2-minute speeches. 

A few frameworks that you can use for your 2-minute impromptu speeches are:

1. PREP model

PREP stands for Point, Reason, Example, and Point . This essentially means that you begin by talking about something, then give a reason that justifies that point. You then follow it with an example to back your point and end by repeating the point to reach your audience in a structured manner.

2. WWW model 

No, WWW doesn’t stand for World Wide Web. Rather it means answering 3 questions, 

• Who are you?
• What do you do?
• Where are you going from here?

WWW works best when you have to give an impromptu introduction of yourself . 

An example of using the WWW model to introduce yourself is given below. 

Hello everyone, I am Arsh M, a fashion designer, and advocate of sustainability. During my college years, I was astonished by the amount of cloth waste produced each day. Upon researching, I realized that the fashion industry happens to be one of the biggest polluters in the world. This motivated me to work towards bringing more sustainable styling choices for everyone. That is when I began my venture in Sustainaesthetic. We are a completely sustainable and animal cruelty-free brand that aims to provide you with diverse sustainable styling options at a very affordable rate so that saving the planet doesn’t hurt your pockets!

3. Pointer Format

As the name suggests, the pointer format involves dividing your content into 3-5 points . This will make it easier for you to talk about each point for a couple of seconds before moving to the next. At the same time, it sounds very structured and may be easy to recall. 

An example of a pointer format is a speech given the by CEO of Pepsico Indra Nooyi . 

Famous 2-minute speeches

1. indra nooyi.

The speech given by Pepsico’s CEO is well-written and spoken . She begins by appreciating India, her home country, and then moves on to briefly talk about her 3 life lessons. Diving her speech into such crisp segments with an introduction, 3 pointers and finally, a conclusion, makes the speech very comprehensive and structured . 

2. Denzel Washington

The speech given by Denzel Washington is one of the most motivating speeches of all time . It is because of the way he calmly delivers the speech by taking required pauses to stress the important lines. 

2-minute speeches from movies

Speeches in movies usually bring out the emotion of awe, inspiration, or sympathy . We will look at two such 2-minute inspirational speeches from movies.

1. Any Given Sunday 

The scene on any given day is worth noting for its storytelling approach . Al Pacino begins his speech with brutal honesty when he says “ We are in hell gentlemen.” 

He then goes on to talk about how the game is very similar to everyone’s life and emphasizes being at the right place at the right time. 

“One second early or one second late, you miss a catch,” he says. In the latter half of his speech, he increases his voice as if trying to reach his player’s very core, in an attempt to motivate them to do their level best in the game.

2. Coach Carter 

This speech scene of Coach Carter is unlike other traditional scenes where the coach inspires his students. Rather, one of the students gives a very short speech that moves not only his teammates but also his teacher. 

It can also be counted as a very effective thank you speech!

Monologues happen to be yet another powerful tool used in 2-minute speeches from movies. Monologues are long dialogues given by a single character. Let’s take a look at some of the most striking monologues given in movies

2-minute dramatic monologue for male

When it comes to dramatic monologues for males, the dialogue is often very inspiring or tries to instill the right amount of motivation among the team players or the soldiers. Let us take a look at 2 such dramatic monologues given by male characters in movies that had an amazing impact on their audience.

1. V for Vendetta

V for vendetta isn’t only an amazing movie, but this monologue by V is out of the ordinary. In the scene, V introduces himself to a woman whom he had just saved. 

He uses alliteration by introducing himself with words that start with V. Check out the exact dialogue to get a clearer idea about the monologue.

V oila! In v iew, a humble v audevillian v eteran is cast v icariously as both v ictim and v illain by the v icissitudes of fate. This v isage, no mere v eneer of v anity, is a v estige of v ox populi, now v acant, v anished. However, this v alorous v isitation of a bygone v exation stands v ivified and had v owed to v anquish these v enal and v irulent v ermin v anguarding v ice and v ouchsafing the v iolently v icarious and v iolation of v olition…. You may call me V.

2. Wolf of Wallstreet

Who hasn’t heard of this amazing movie, wolf of wall street? One thing that we will observe when it comes to this movie is that the main lead had amazing public speaking skills . He had the power to persuade his listeners and encourage them to chip in at their level best for the growth of the organization. 

In one such speech, he talks about how he isn’t leaving them and that he is here to stay. 

The use of dramatic suspense followed by his change in tone and voice is something worth noting.

2-minute dramatic monologue for female

When it comes to dramatic monologues given by female characters in movies, 2 of these scenes come into our minds. The scenes are both beautifully written and executed by the actors.

1. Devil Wears Prada

In the movie Devil Wears Prada, the monologue is given by Meryl Streep who plays the role of Miranda Priestly. The speech is worth noting as she dramatically explains how even a small difference between two pieces of clothing to a lay person is a big difference for the fashion moguls as it is their opportunity to create millions!

Her passion for the industry is quite evident from the 2-minute speech. Further, the way her character picks up the pace when she talks about the reality of the fashion industry brings out her annoyance at the assistant and acts as a way of showing authority through words.

The movie 300 features a small scene where the queen requests the councilmen to send more men to war, to help not only her husband but also all the others who are already a part of it. 

We see the use of ethos in the speech when the queen says the following statement:

I come to you as a mother. I come to you as a wife. I come to you as a spartan woman.

Examples of 2-minute speeches

If you are looking for some examples for your next 2-minute speech or 2-minute speeches to memorize, check out the ones given below!

How to introduce yourself in 2 minutes?

When you have to introduce yourself in 2-minutes, it is better to follow a simple structure of past, and present. 

An example of introducing yourself as a fresher for a job interview has been given below

Good afternoon, I am Arya Rose. I recently graduated from ABC college, majoring in Analytics. Growing up I had always found immense interest in math and had also won Olympiads at the school level. During my under graduation, I had taken up a course in tools for Data Analysis which made me realize my inclination toward analytics. It also encouraged me to pursue my major in the field of analytics. 

Being an active member of my college, I made sure to participate in and represent my college across various events and intercollegiate festivals. I also had the chance to be a part of Hackin which is ABC’s elite Hackathon team. With the Team, we stood 2nd at Hackified, a hackathon organized by QPR college.  

I was further able to put my theoretical knowledge to use by interning with this amazing organization called ANAlysis. The internship spanned over 3 months and I was able to gain an in-depth understanding of software like R and Python. 

I now look forward to gaining more practical experience in the field by working and growing with your esteemed organization. 

2 minute thank you speech

There are a few things that you must keep in your mind while you are giving a thank you speech. 

• Acknowledge the people around you
• Thank them 
• Introduce yourself or why you are giving this speech. 
• Individually thank every person required.
• Add some inspiring or heartfelt closing marks

An example of a 2-minute thank you speech for an event is given below. 

I’d like to first thank every one of you present here, for joining us to make this event an absolute success. To those of you who might not know, I am Shiya M, the editor of the XYZ club and the coordinator of this amazing open mic event “Mehar.” Mehar means blessing in Punjabi, and there is a reason behind it.

On my very first day at XYZ, I was stunned to see the company ritual. Before leaving we were to recall one blessing that we received that day from our colleagues. As unusual as it felt, it was beyond measure one of the most beautiful rituals I had come across. You see in this fast-moving world, we tend to focus a lot on our busy schedule for the things we don’t have. And in all that chaos, we forget to take a look at the n number of blessings showered our way.

So, we wanted to provide a platform where you could do that, even if it was for a couple of hours. 

I’d like to thank Ms. T, founder of XYZ, and her immense support and encouragement throughout, Arya and Daven for working closely with all the participants and audience members, ensuring that all your needs were met. I’d also like to thank Mr. Ajay for the technical support provided to him and how can we not thank Jay for being our lead guitarist, tuning in the vibe of this small room as per each participant’s requirement, Jay thank you!

Thank you to all the participants for presenting such beautifully written pieces, we enjoyed them all. A great round of applause for our participants!

Last, I’d like to thank our dear audience for being patient and for motivating all our speakers today you have been the most amazing audience we have ever seen!

Thank you again all of you, it was a great pleasure interacting with every one of you. 

meher rakhi!

Humorous 2-minute speeches

If you are trying to understand how to add humor to your speech and make it more fun as well as casual, check out the 2-minute speech example given below.

2-minute humorous speech by bridesmaid

“Hello everyone, first of all, I’d like to begin quite humbly by thanking everyone present for gathering here to celebrate the union of this beautiful couple Jess and Jim. 

Now if you know jess, you know me. Because I pretty much tag along with her everywhere. Just like those lice in your hair, can’t leave her alone!

At 5, I had taken up responsibility. It was to protect this absolutely beautiful soul. But as we grew up, it turned out that she was the one who protected me. What the turn tables!

Jess, I’m grateful every day to have such an amazing sister like you in my life who motivates me to do better and talk to “decent” guys..pst they are just not my type!

You’ve been my mom at times, waiting at the door every time I’d get late which makes me wonder if mom outsourced her strictness to you? And if yes, why not me? I was the broke kid!

 I’m going to miss those small things you know? How you told me it was chocolate powder when it was coffee, how I never won a game I played with you because you never played it fair, and oh how you never missed complimenting my outfit when I was wearing your clothes!

But seriously, I’m going to miss you tons. I hope you get your fairytale happily ever after! To Jess and Jim!

if you have been asking yourself which topic is best for a 2-minute speech? what are some good topics to speak on? or what should I do for my school speech?

Here is a list of various topics you can choose from!

Common topics for 2-minute speeches

• Environment
• Domestic Violence
• Women’s Day
• Teachers’ Day
• Importance of Cleanliness

2-minute speech topics for students

• Failure: A blessing in disguise
• The best attitude to have is gratitude
• Is there value in homework?
• Impact of technology on mental health
• The authenticity of online degrees
• The future is sustainability
• Social media detox
• Blended learning and its benefits
• Residential programs and their benefits
• New education policy
• Value of time
• Importance of education
• Discipline and its importance.
• 2-minute speech on any freedom fighter
• Ban on school uniforms

2-minute speech topics for adults

• Work-life balance for remote employees
• Fields that can turn completely virtual
• Slow living: beyond the hustle
• Impact of diet on mental health
• Unhealthy patterns that cost you in your 40s
• Advice to an 18-year-old
• How colors affect people
• Consistency over motivation
• Future of automobile
• Metaverse: the new shopping hub
• The power of fake news
• Ban on animal testing
• Adopt, don’t shop!
• Social media diet fads or eating disorders?
• Can money buy happiness?

Final words

2-minute speeches are short, crisp speeches that help in conveying your ideas or opinions to the people effectively. As the time is short, focusing too much on the opening lines or in-depth research will steal your time. Instead, focus on a takeaway and chip in extra efforts to give a memorable conclusion.

At the end of the day, there are no strict rules that you must follow for 2-minute speeches, and hence you are open to writing it and delivering it the way that suits best for you.

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How to Write a Two Minute Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

Have you ever been asked to give a two-minute speech and found yourself struggling to come up with the perfect words? Writing a speech, even a short one, can be a daunting task. It requires careful planning, research, and structure to convey your message effectively. But don't worry, we've got you covered. In this step-by-step guide, we'll take you through the process of crafting a concise and impactful two-minute speech.

Understanding the Purpose of a Two Minute Speech

Before we dive into the writing process, it's essential to understand the purpose of a two-minute speech. As the name suggests, a two-minute speech is a brief talk that typically conveys a specific message or idea. It may be delivered on various occasions, such as a business pitch, a wedding toast, or a school presentation.

Two-minute speeches have become increasingly popular in recent years, and it's not hard to see why. In today's fast-paced world, people have shorter attention spans, and it can be challenging to keep an audience engaged for an extended period. A two-minute speech allows you to deliver your message quickly and efficiently, without losing your audience's attention.

The Importance of Brevity

One of the critical features of a two-minute speech is brevity. Given the limited time frame, you need to convey your message succinctly and powerfully. Clarity, conciseness, and impactfulness are more important than impressing your audience with fancy words or complex arguments.

It's crucial to remember that brevity doesn't mean sacrificing substance. You still need to have a clear message and supporting points to make your speech effective. However, you must prioritize your ideas and present them in a way that is easy for your audience to understand and remember.

Common Occasions for Two-Minute Speeches

There are numerous occasions when a two-minute speech may be required. These include:

• Job interviews: A two-minute speech can be an effective way to introduce yourself and highlight your qualifications for a job.
• Entrepreneurship pitches: If you're looking to secure funding for a new business venture, a two-minute pitch can be an excellent way to make a quick impression on potential investors.
• Wedding toasts: A heartfelt two-minute speech can be a beautiful way to honor the newlyweds and celebrate their love.
• Funeral eulogies: A two-minute speech can be a powerful way to pay tribute to a loved one who has passed away.
• Conference presentations: Two-minute speeches are becoming increasingly popular at conferences as a way for presenters to deliver quick, impactful messages.
• School or college assignments: Two-minute speeches can be an effective way for students to practice public speaking and showcase their knowledge on a particular topic.
• Political campaigns: Two-minute speeches are often used by politicians during debates and other public appearances to convey their message quickly and effectively.

Whether you're delivering a two-minute speech at a job interview, a wedding, or a conference, remember that brevity and impactfulness are key. With careful planning and practice, you can deliver a powerful message that will leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Planning Your Two Minute Speech

Now that you understand the critical features of a two-minute speech let's move on to the first step in the writing process, planning.

Identifying Your Main Message

The first step in planning your speech is identifying your primary message. What is it that you want to convey to your audience? Is it a call to action, an informative idea or a persuasive pitch? Once you determine your primary message, you will be able to craft the rest of your speech around it.

Researching Your Topic

After identifying your primary message, you will need to conduct research on your topic to support your arguments and convey credibility. You can use various sources, including books, articles, websites and interviews to gather information. Ensure that you only use reliable and verified sources to avoid any inaccuracies in your speech.

Knowing Your Audience

The last step in planning your speech is knowing your audience. Who will be listening to your speech, and what are their needs and expectations? Tailoring your speech to your audience will help you connect better with them and convey your message more effectively.

Structuring Your Two Minute Speech

With the planning phase complete, it's time to move on to the structure of your speech. A well-structured speech will ensure that your message is conveyed effectively, and your audience stays engaged throughout the two minutes.

Crafting a Strong Introduction

Your introduction is the most critical part of your speech. It should be attention-grabbing, informative, and set the tone for the rest of your talk. Start with a quote, anecdote, or a shocking statistic to capture your audience's attention, and then proceed to introduce your primary message.

Organizing Your Key Points

To keep your speech organized, begin by outlining your primary message and then break it down into three key points. Ensure each point supports your primary message and flows coherently into the next point. Use examples, stories, or data to illustrate your points and keep your audience engaged throughout.

Developing a Memorable Conclusion

Just as your introduction is essential, so is your conclusion. It should leave a lasting impression on your audience, summarize your main points and restate your primary message. You can end with a call to action or a powerful quote that resonates with your message and inspires your audience to act.

Writing Tips for a Two Minute Speech

Writing a great two-minute speech requires more than just outlining and structuring your talk. Here are some additional writing tips to help make your speech memorable and impactful.

Using Clear and Concise Language

When writing a two-minute speech, it's essential to use straightforward language that your audience can understand. Avoid complex vocabulary and jargon that may confuse or alienate your listeners.

Incorporating Storytelling Techniques

Using personal anecdotes, real-life examples, or case studies can help illustrate your key points and make your speech more relatable to your audience. It can also add a humanistic touch to your speech and make it more memorable in the long run.

Balancing Facts and Emotions

Lastly, it's essential to balance your use of facts and emotions. While facts help support your arguments and add credibility, emotions help connect with your audience and make your speech more impactful. A balanced approach to facts and emotions is crucial for a great two-minute speech.

ChatGPT Prompt for Writing a Two Minute Speech

Chatgpt prompt.

Compose a speech that is two minutes in length, ensuring that it is well-crafted, comprehensive, and of the highest quality possible.

[ADD ADDITIONAL CONTEXT. CAN USE BULLET POINTS.]

In conclusion, writing a two-minute speech requires careful planning, research, and structure. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you'll be able to craft a concise, impactful talk that resonates with your audience and conveys your message effectively. Remember to keep it simple, use storytelling techniques and maintain a balance between facts and emotions. With practice, you'll be able to deliver great two-minute speeches that leave a lasting impression on your audience.

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The 50 Best 2-Minute Speech Topics

It might seem daunting to come up with a speech topic, let alone a two-minute speech topic that can both engage and inform your audience. With the right topic, however, you can make a powerful impact in the short amount of time that you have. Here is a list of the 50 best two minute speech topics to get you started.

• The Importance of Setting Boundaries
• Discrimination in the Workplace
• Self-Care and Stress Management for Mental Well-Being 
• If I Could Live the Life of My Dog for a Day
• The Benefits of Positive Self-Talk 
• Different Challenges of Being a Leader 
• The Benefits of Diversity in the Workplace 
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Education 
• What The Pandemic Did To Me
• The Benefits of Investing in Yourself 
• Role of Social Connections in Mental Health 
• The Role of Technology in Modern Society
• The Challenges of Climate Change 
• How to Become an Expert at Anything
• Benefits of Volunteering and Community Service
• Work From Home Shenanigans
• History and Significance of a Particular Holiday or Event
• The Benefits of Reading 
• The Importance of Building Strong Relationships
• The Power of Forgiveness
• Importance of Having a Good Work Ethic
• The Benefits of a Good Night’s Sleep
• Benefits of a Healthy Social Life
• The Power of Books 
• The Art of Public Speaking 
• Value of Education
• The Challenges of Living in a Digital World
• The Benefits of Having an Unusual Hobby
• Achieving Success Through Creative Thinking
• Cultivating a Growth Mindset
• The Power of Letting Go of the Past
• Value of Taking Time for Yourself
• The Art of Making Friends
• The Importance of Choosing Happiness
• Benefits of Living a Simple Life
• Joys of Pursuing a Dream
• The Value of Learning Every Day
• Why It’s Okay to Make Mistakes
• Disconnect to Connect
• Role of Humor in Life
• How to Deal With Stress 
• Why Learning A Second Language Is A Great Idea
• Benefits of a Strong Support System in Times of Hardship
• Importance of Forgiveness and How It Can Improve Relationships
• Dangers of Distracted Driving
• The Importance of Setting Clear Goals and Objectives
• Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Our Lives
• Benefits of Being a Good Listener and How It Can Improve Your Relationships and Communication Skills
• How to Stay Confident in the Face of Criticism or Negativity
• The Link Between Body Language and Confidence

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the 50 Best 2 Minute Speech Topics provide a wide range of ideas to help anyone craft a great speech. With a variety of topics to choose from, there is something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a humorous topic or something more serious. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something that will engage your audience and leave them with something to think about.

Related Posts:

• 28+ Easy English 2-Minute Speech Topics For Students

A concise 2-minute speech should begin with a compelling introduction that states your topic’s relevance and importance while briefly introducing yourself. Allocate about a minute for two clear and well-structured main points supported by relevant examples or evidence. Utilize transitions to smoothly guide your audience through these points, ensuring a logical flow. Conclude by summarizing your main ideas, underlining their significance, and leaving the audience with a memorable closing thought or call to action. Practising with a timer and refining your delivery will help you maintain confidence and coherence within the time limit.

Easy English 2-minute Speech Topics for Students (30 Topic Ideas)

Here are some 2-minute speech topics suitable for students; they are easy to prepare, and we have included sample speeches for the most.

• The Power of Kindness: Discuss how small acts of kindness can significantly impact individuals and the community. Here is an example: The Power of Kindness
• The Power of Self-Compassion : The power of self-compassion lies in its ability to transform setbacks into opportunities for growth, fostering resilience, kindness, and a deeper connection with oneself and others. The Power of Self-Compassion
• The Benefits of Reading: Highlight the advantages of reading regularly, from expanding vocabulary to fostering creativity. Here is an example: The Benefits of Reading
• Embracing Failure as a Stepping Stone: Talk about how failures can be valuable learning experiences and growth opportunities. Embracing Failure as a Stepping Stone
• Cyberbullying Awareness : Raise awareness about the adverse effects of cyberbullying and encourage online kindness. Cyberbullying 2-minute speech
• The Importance of Recycling: Explain why recycling is crucial for the environment and how students can contribute. Importance of Recycling
• Overcoming Stage Fright: Share strategies for managing stage fright and public speaking anxiety. Remove Stage Fear
• The Impact of Social Media on Relationships: Discuss how social media affects friendships, family relationships, and personal interactions. Related: Negative Impacts on Social Media
• Balancing Academics and Extracurricular Activities: Offer tips for maintaining a healthy balance between schoolwork and extracurricular pursuits.
• Discovering Your Passion: Encourage students to explore their interests and find their passions outside of academics.
• The Role of Students in Environmental Conservation: Inspire students to protect the environment through active actions actively.
• Building Healthy Study Habits: Provide practical advice on effective study habits and time management for academic success. Healthy Study Habits
• Promoting Mental Health Awareness: Discuss the importance of addressing mental health issues and reducing stigma.
• The Significance of Volunteering: Talk about the benefits of volunteering for personal growth and community betterment. The Significance of Volunteering
• Media Literacy in the Digital Age: Educate students about critical thinking when consuming online information and media.
• Exploring Cultural Diversity: Celebrate the richness of cultural diversity and the importance of embracing different perspectives.
• Healthy Eating for Students: Share tips for making nutritious food choices and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
• Setting SMART Goals: Teach students how to set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals.
• The Impact of Music on Mood: Discuss how music can influence emotions and provide stress relief for students.
• The Importance of Time Management: Explain why managing time efficiently is essential for academic success and well-being.
• The Influence of Role Models: Highlight the positive impact of role models on shaping students’ aspirations and behaviour.
• Ethical Considerations in AI: Discuss the moral challenges and considerations surrounding the development and use of artificial intelligence, including issues related to bias, privacy, and accountability.
• Impact of AI on Employment: Explore the potential impact of AI on the job market, discussing both the potential for job displacement and the creation of new opportunities.
• Applications of AI in Healthcare: Highlight the various ways artificial intelligence is used in the healthcare industry, from diagnostics to personalized medicine.
• AI and Climate Change: Discuss how AI technologies can address environmental challenges, such as climate change, through improved resource management, energy efficiency, and monitoring.
• The Role of AI in Education: Explore how AI transforms education through personalized learning, adaptive assessments, and intelligent tutoring systems.
• AI and Creativity: Challenge the notion that AI is purely analytical and explore how it can enhance and contribute to creative art, music, and literature processes. 2-minute speech on AI and Creativity
• The Future of AI: Discuss emerging trends and technologies in AI, such as quantum computing, explainable AI, and the potential for superintelligent systems.
• AI and Cybersecurity : Explore the role of AI in enhancing cybersecurity measures, from threat detection to proactive defence strategies.
• AI in Autonomous Vehicles: Highlight the advancements in AI that contribute to the development of autonomous vehicles and discuss the potential benefits and challenges.
• Bias in AI: This section delves into the issue of bias in AI algorithms, discussing how biases can emerge and the efforts to address and mitigate them.
• What makes learning fun: Learning becomes enjoyable when infused with curiosity, allowing individuals to freely explore new ideas and concepts. Engaging activities and interactive experiences stimulate the mind, fostering a sense of discovery and accomplishment. When learners feel empowered to connect with the material personally, whether through hands-on experimentation or meaningful discussions, acquiring knowledge transforms into a delightful journey of growth and understanding. 2-minute speech on What Makes Learning Fun?

More Easy English Speech Topics For Students from various categories

These topics are suitable for 1-minute / 2-minute, or even 5-minute speeches.

• 21 English Speech Ideas on Personal Development
• 21 English speech ideas based on Climate Change and Environmental Conservation
• 21 English Speech Ideas on Equality and Social Justice
• 21 English Speech Ideas Based on Global Health
• 21 English Speech Ideas on Mental Health Awareness
• 21 English Speech Ideas on Social Media and Society
• 21 English Speech Ideas from Technology and its Impact

Remember to check our Checklist for your speech preparation and Overcome stage fright (12 practical ideas)

To discover current and relevant topic ideas, it’s beneficial to stay updated with news sources and media outlets, engage with discussions on social media platforms and online communities, explore academic journals and publications in your field, listen to podcasts and watch YouTube channels focused on emerging trends, attend conferences and events for cutting-edge insights, utilize tools like Google Trends to identify popular subjects, consider local and global issues, and seek input from peers and professors for research gaps and debates. Ensuring the credibility of your sources and considering a range of perspectives will help you select a timely and engaging topic that aligns with your interests and audience expectations.

Which topic is best for a 2-minute speech?

When preparing a 2-minute speech, it is most important to select a topic that interests you and appeals to your listeners. Consider the occasion and your audience to ensure your speech is appropriate for the event. Keep your speech concise, focused, and engaging to deliver your message effectively within the time limit. Remember that the purpose of a 2-minute speech is to convey your message clearly and effectively.

How do I give a great 2-minute speech?

To deliver a great 2-minute speech, focus on a clear and concise message. Start with a strong opening, organize your speech with a brief introduction, one or two main points, and a compelling conclusion. Use simple, impactful language, engage your audience, and practice your speech for smooth delivery and confidence. Manage your time effectively to fit within the 2-minute limit. Related: Checklist for your Speech Preparation

Is a 2 minute speech good?

A 2-minute speech is effective for various occasions, such as introductions, presentations or short talks.

Related Topics:

• Checklist for your speech preparation
• 2 Minute Speech on Climate Change
• Global Warming Speech
• 2 Minute Speech on Science and Technology
• Speech on Gender Equality
• Speeches on Leadership
• 101 Topic Ideas for a Motivation Speech Preparation
• More Speech preparation articles
• 12 Ideas to Remove Stage Fear while Speaking
• Speech about Women’s Empowerment
• Speech about Pollution
• Speech about Education
• 2 Minute Speech Topics for Students (Easy English)
• The Benefits of Reading
• Artificial Intelligence: Friend or Foe
• Importance of Recycling
• The Power of Kindness
• speech about education
• Science and Technology

Latest Updates

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• 499 Seminar Topics for Computer Science Engineering (CSE) 2024 (today)
• 49+ Seminar Topics For Students [2024] 🔥 (today)
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How to write a 2-minute speech.

Last week I sat in the audience at the annual Project Glimmer fundraising luncheon, proudly watching three powerful young women deliver powerful personal perspectives on Saying 'Yes', Dreaming Big, and Taking Back their Voice.

This was a really big deal and a really big moment. It was the first time the audience could hear directly from these girls and the way Project Glimmer supported them throughout their teen and tween years — they had finally turned 18.

When Chrissy Shea , CEO of Project Glimmer, approached me to support the girls with their speeches, she knew what she was doing. She has been orchestrating these events for more than a decade and knows that every minute counts. Each girl was given two minutes to share her story.

Two minutes is not a lot of time. Every word — every syllable — matters.

The speeches were spectacular — they were the highlight of the event. They told the story of each girl and they told the story of Project Glimmer. They accomplished a full metric ton of impact in a mere 120 seconds.

If you've ever struggled to write a high-impact speech with just 120 seconds to make yourself and your message memorable, it's easier to achieve than you think.

The audience reaction and the girls' satisfaction inspired me to share with others my approach to writing a 2-minute speech and setting your client up for success (which can also be applied to 5-minute and even 20 minute speeches, with slight variations).

Thanks for reading The Art of Smart Storytelling! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

Step 1. Ask questions and listen.

Every speech-writing engagement begins with deep inquiry and deep listening. In just 45 minutes, I usually have all I need to write a 2-minute speech. (Longer speeches may take some back and forth as we dive deeper into stories.) This is always my favorite part of the process. I feel like I'm panning for gold, shirt-sleeves rolled up, senses dialed high as I'm on high alert for that glint of truth that we'll hang the entire speech around. It's not always in the story being shared — in fact, I quite often find it in the silence or hesitation or discarded thought bubble.

I operate intuitively, feeling for truth in my body — I am feeling what it's like to be the audience as I listen to my client in those first 45 minutes. I'm listening and I'm watching for all those places where the words, the story, and the person become a quantum experience — where they are more than the sum of their parts.

I usually find the hook in the first 15 minutes, and I use the rest of the time gently digging around it — like an archaeologist unearthing a fossil — to bring it to life.

Step 2. Cluster themes and squint.

I record and transcribe our discovery sessions. Recording allows me to stay present and in my body, listening and feeling, instead of stressing out about capturing the specific words and phrases and details.

Once I have the transcript, I start looking for the bones. I get rid of all the fluff and tangential stuff and I start looking for patterns in the content itself: repeated words and phrases are a pattern, the story of a from-to expansion is a pattern, the story of a repeated cycle is a pattern.

(By the way, pattern-recognition is one of my superpowers. It's even in my Human Design, which I use as a tool to amplify my gifts and better serve my clients. Follow this link to begin working with yours. )

After stripping out the inessential, I now have the hook and the bones, and I squint. (My business partner, Tara Tallman Sollman , taught me this one.) Squinting helps you see the forest through the trees.

I now have my storytelling "architecture" and can begin the actual writing.

Step 3. Write for voice and rhythm.

I often feel like a method actor throughout my speech-writing process. In the first step, I physically embody the audience, imagining and sensing their experience and what they want or need to hear and feel. In this step, I now embody the speaker.

I imagine I am them at the podium and I sit in their life experience and aura. I also know their Human Design (I bring this into my client work so that I can better serve) — their energy type, the places in their definition that they most identify with, their profile lines. I also know where they may feel vulnerable so I can help them navigate and provide tender, even "surgical" support in a way that it lands in their emotional and physical self.

The most important part of writing for my client's voice is to remove myself from the mix — I must become my client, but in an elevated form for the main stage.

It's an emotional and energetic balancing act to be:

– relatable, but not colloquial

– aspirational, but not pretentious

– informational, but not boring

Getting the voice right is a giant step in getting the rhythm right — the tools of rhetoric and language are deeply intertwined.

Step 4. Read it out loud and trim for time.

Okay, this is arguably the most painful part of the process. It often means letting go of precious words and turns of phrase, but it's also where the ultimate pay-off is.

I have no idea why it is that a speech read in silence and a speech spoken out loud are so very different. What sounds fine to your mind while scanning the page can sound overwhelmingly formal, fussy, and dull when spoken out loud. It never ceases to amaze me.

I always always always do this step with the client — this is where we begin transferring ownership, honing and trimming together.

I bring to them the fleshed-out architecture, eyeballing it for length (so we're not tasked with turning a novel into a sound-bite). I start this session by reading out loud the entire speech and pointing out areas that felt powerful and natural to me and areas that felt forced. When I do this, I am helping them understand my language as a guide, but I'm also helping them see what resonates for me as the audience member again.

During this stage we're both in the Google Doc highlighting, cutting, transforming, and editing — it's a moment of real collaboration and co-creation at its best.

By the end of the session, we do a read-through and time it. Anything between 1:50 and 2:10 is good for me — we'll fine-tune it in the final coaching session for delivery.

The client now has their Google Doc. I no longer touch it (unless they ask). It is theirs to play with word choice and emphasis — they're now tasked to "make it their own" where there may be places that don't feel 100% authentic.

Step 5. Listen, nuance, and amplify.

This is the phase I love most. Even though we've only spent 2-3 brief sessions together, we've built so much trust and intimacy in our little world of words and stories. I get to see the results of their trust-fall with me.

I have my client read their speech to me as if they were delivering it, and I time it. I listen for emphasis and tone and "connection" to the content, and I take notes about words I want to emphasize, places I want to speed up or slow down, opportunities to pause. I am noting all the ways I want my client to hold this space and own this moment. I want them to step into their power and magnetism, because I know that's what the audience hungers for.

After annotating the delivery, we get a clean recording that I send in an audio file so they can listen over and over, imprinting their voice in their minds to aid them in memorization. (It's infinitely more powerful and magnetic when delivering a speech from memory, but it takes a lot more time to get there. If you have the time and runway to memorize and rehearse, I can't recommend this enough.)

Whether you're writing a 2-minute, 5-minute, or 20-minute speech, the best speeches are always anchored in a story. A nugget of truth about you that is accessible and relatable to others in the form of a universal truth, and a way of sharing it that brings to life multiple dimensions of our collective human experience.

Ready for more?

100+ 2 Minute Speech Topics For Students [Updated]

• Post author By admin
• February 23, 2024

Public speaking can be a daunting task for many students. Whether it’s presenting in front of a classroom or speaking at an event, the thought of standing up and delivering a speech can make even the most confident individuals feel nervous. However, mastering the art of public speaking is an invaluable skill that can benefit students in various aspects of their lives. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of 2 minute speech topics for students and provide a comprehensive guide to help them excel in this endeavor.

Table of Contents

Importance of 2-Minute Speeches

Time management is crucial in today’s fast-paced world, and learning how to effectively communicate ideas within a short time frame is a valuable skill. 2-minute speeches challenge students to condense their thoughts and ideas into a concise format, teaching them the importance of prioritizing information and delivering it efficiently. 

Additionally, shorter speeches help students develop their attention-span, as they must find creative ways to engage their audience and convey their message effectively in a limited amount of time.

Moreover, regular practice with short speeches can significantly improve students’ overall public speaking abilities, boosting their confidence and communication skills.

How to Select 2 Minute Speech Topics For Students?

Selecting 2-minute speech topics for students can be a thoughtful process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the perfect topic:

• Identify Interests: Encourage students to consider their interests, hobbies, or areas of expertise. Topics they’re passionate about are more likely to engage both them and their audience.
• Relevance: Choose topics that are relevant to the audience’s interests, current events, or issues that affect their lives. This ensures the speech resonates with the listeners.
• Audience Consideration: Consider the audience’s demographics and preferences. Select topics that are appropriate and interesting to the specific audience you’ll be addressing.
• Clarity and Depth: Opt for topics that can be explored within a 2-minute timeframe. Ensure the topic is narrow enough to cover adequately but broad enough to provide depth and insight.
• Impactful and Thought-Provoking: Select topics that have the potential to evoke emotions, spark discussions, or inspire action. Thought-provoking topics encourage critical thinking and engagement from the audience.
• Personal Connection: Encourage students to choose topics that they have a personal connection to or experiences with. Sharing personal anecdotes or insights can make the speech more authentic and relatable.
• Diversity: Promote diversity in topic selection. Encourage students to explore a range of subjects, including social issues, science and technology, arts and culture, environment, education, and more.
• Relevance to Learning Objectives: Align the topic selection with the learning objectives or goals of the assignment or curriculum. Ensure that the chosen topics allow students to demonstrate their understanding and skills effectively.
• Originality: Encourage creativity and originality in topic selection. Encourage students to think outside the box and explore unique or less-discussed subjects to capture the audience’s attention.
• Practice and Feedback: After selecting a topic, encourage students to practice delivering their speech and seek feedback from peers or mentors. This helps refine the content and delivery for maximum impact.

By following these guidelines, students can select 2-minute speech topics that are engaging, relevant, and impactful, allowing them to effectively communicate their ideas and connect with their audience.

100+ 2 Minute Speech Topics For Students

• The Importance of Kindness in Daily Life
• Benefits of Regular Exercise
• Overcoming Adversity: Lessons Learned
• Impact of Social Media on Relationships
• Environmental Conservation: Small Actions, Big Impact
• The Power of Positivity
• Exploring Cultural Diversity
• Importance of Time Management for Students
• My Role Model and Why They Inspire Me
• Breaking Stereotypes: Embracing Individuality
• The Influence of Music on Mood
• The Art of Effective Communication
• Benefits of Volunteering in the Community
• Overcoming Fear of Failure
• Cyberbullying: Recognizing and Preventing It
• The Beauty of Diversity in Nature
• Healthy Eating Habits for a Balanced Life
• Importance of Mental Health Awareness
• Pursuing Your Passions: Finding Fulfillment
• The Impact of Technology on Education
• Respecting Differences: Embracing Inclusion
• Tips for Effective Study Techniques
• Importance of Setting Goals
• Coping with Stress in High School
• Benefits of Learning a Second Language
• The Power of a Smile
• Exploring Career Options: Finding Your Path
• Benefits of Outdoor Activities for Physical Health
• Overcoming Procrastination: Getting Things Done
• Building Resilience in Challenging Times
• The Role of Education in Shaping Society
• Importance of Financial Literacy for Teens
• Developing Leadership Skills in Student Life
• Impact of Positive Role Models on Youth
• The Value of Friendship in Adolescence
• Environmental Sustainability: Individual Responsibility
• Overcoming Peer Pressure: Making Smart Choices
• The Joy of Reading: Unlocking Imagination
• Recognizing and Appreciating Teachers
• The Power of Empathy in Building Relationships
• Benefits of Mindfulness and Meditation
• Navigating Social Media: Staying Safe Online
• Exploring Career Opportunities in STEM Fields
• Overcoming Self-Doubt: Believing in Yourself
• The Importance of Cultural Awareness
• Tips for Effective Public Speaking
• Benefits of Adopting a Pet
• The Impact of Positive Affirmations on Self-Confidence
• Digital Citizenship: Responsible Online Behavior
• Celebrating Diversity in Friendship
• Importance of Sleep for Academic Success
• Overcoming Challenges Through Perseverance
• The Power of Gratitude in Daily Life
• Benefits of Teamwork in Achieving Goals
• The Role of Family in Shaping Values
• Exploring Creativity Through Art and Music
• The Significance of Volunteer Work in Society
• Developing Critical Thinking Skills
• Tips for Effective Time Management
• Overcoming Obstacles: Turning Failure into Success
• The Impact of Social Media Influencers
• Cultivating a Growth Mindset
• The Importance of Recycling for a Sustainable Future
• Benefits of Positive Affirmations for Mental Health
• The Role of Technology in Environmental Conservation
• Exploring Different Learning Styles
• Overcoming Test Anxiety: Strategies for Success
• Benefits of Participating in Sports
• The Power of Positive Self-Talk
• Importance of Respecting Others’ Opinions
• Strategies for Conflict Resolution
• The Impact of Role Models on Career Choices
• Exploring Cultural Traditions and Celebrations
• Overcoming Negative Body Image: Embracing Self-Acceptance
• The Benefits of Traveling and Cultural Exchange
• The Influence of Peer Groups on Behavior
• Building Confidence Through Public Speaking
• Importance of Setting Boundaries in Relationships
• The Role of Nutrition in Mental Health
• Benefits of Journaling for Personal Growth
• The Impact of Social Media on Body Image
• Strategies for Overcoming Procrastination
• The Power of Resilience in Adversity
• Tips for Effective Conflict Resolution
• Benefits of Positive Affirmations for Self-Esteem
• Exploring Different Career Paths
• Overcoming Shyness: Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone
• The Importance of Self-Care Practices
• Benefits of Outdoor Education Programs
• The Role of Empathy in Building Stronger Communities
• Strategies for Building Healthy Relationships
• Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Recognizing Your Worth
• The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
• Benefits of Learning from Failure
• The Power of Visualization in Goal Setting
• Strategies for Overcoming Perfectionism
• Importance of Seeking Help for Mental Health Issues
• The Role of Resilience in Academic Success
• Benefits of Adopting a Growth Mindset
• The Impact of Positive Role Models on Self-Confidence
• Strategies for Overcoming Test Anxiety
• Benefits of Practicing Gratitude Daily
• The Power of Positive Thinking in Achieving Goals
• Tips for Building Resilience in Challenging Times
• Importance of Building a Support Network for Mental Health.

Ways To Structure 2 Minutes Speech

Structuring a 2-minute speech effectively is essential to ensure that your message is clear, concise, and engaging. Here are several ways to structure a 2-minute speech:

Introduction (10-15 seconds)

• Start with a hook or attention-grabber to capture the audience’s interest.
• Introduce yourself and briefly preview the topic you’ll be discussing.
• State the main purpose or thesis of your speech.

Main Points (45-60 seconds)

• Organize your speech into two or three main points that support your thesis.
• Dedicate roughly equal time to each main point.
• Provide supporting evidence, examples, or anecdotes for each point to reinforce your arguments.
• Use transitions to smoothly move from one point to the next, maintaining the flow of your speech.

Conclusion (15-20 seconds)

• Summarize the main points you’ve discussed, reinforcing your thesis.
• End with a strong closing statement or call to action that leaves a lasting impression on the audience.
• Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion; instead, focus on reinforcing key takeaways.

Optional: Opening Story or Quote (10-15 seconds)

• Begin your speech with a relevant story, anecdote, or quote that sets the tone for your topic.
• Ensure that the opening relates directly to the main points you’ll be discussing and serves to engage the audience from the start.

Optional: Visual Aid or Prop (if applicable)

• If appropriate for your topic, consider using a visual aid or prop to enhance your speech.
• Keep visual aids simple and relevant, using them to complement your verbal message rather than distract from it.

Optional: Audience Interaction (if applicable)

• Engage the audience by asking a rhetorical question, prompting them to reflect on their own experiences, or inviting them to participate in a brief activity related to your topic.
• Be mindful of time constraints and ensure that any audience interaction enhances rather than detracts from the overall structure of your speech.

Remember to practice your speech multiple times to ensure that you can deliver it comfortably within the 2-minute timeframe. Focus on clarity, coherence, and confidence in your delivery, and be prepared to adapt if you find that certain sections of your speech are taking longer than anticipated. 

With careful planning and rehearsal, you can structure a compelling and effective 2-minute speech that effectively conveys your message to the audience.

Mastering the art of 2 minute speeches is a valuable skill that can benefit students in various aspects of their lives. By learning how to effectively communicate ideas within a short timeframe, students can improve their time management, attention span, and overall public speaking abilities.

By choosing the right 2 minute speech topics for students, structuring their speech effectively, and delivering it with confidence, students can excel in this endeavor and become successful communicators.

So, embrace opportunities for public speaking, practice regularly, and watch as your confidence and communication skills soar.

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Two-minute Impromptu Speeches (Examples for Self-Study)

These two-minute impromptu speeches show how well a person can grab a surprise topic and talk about it clearly and confidently in just a short time. It’s like seeing someone catch a curveball effortlessly.

This isn’t just about being a smooth talker, though. It’s about being ready, being clear, and making sense even when you’re surprised.

What are impromptu speeches?

Impromptu speeches are like on-the-spot talks. You don’t get time to plan or rehearse. Imagine being asked to speak about something without any warning. That’s what an impromptu speech is. It’s all about thinking and speaking right then and there.

Why are they important? Have you ever been put on the spot and asked to share your thoughts? It happens a lot in life – in school, work, or even with friends. Learning impromptu speaking helps you handle these moments.

It boosts your confidence and lets you share ideas quickly. With practice, you can handle surprise questions or topics with ease and look good doing it!

What can studying short impromptu speeches teach us? By looking at short impromptu speech examples, there’s a lot to learn. These examples show us how to get to the point fast. They teach us how to organize our thoughts quickly.

You’ll notice how some start with a story or a fact to grab attention. Studying these helps you speak better when caught off guard and keeps listeners interested even if you’ve only got a short time to talk.

Impromptu Speech Bootcamp

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Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

Good 2-Minute Speech Topics for Students

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

The fear of public speaking is something that a lot of people share. It’s usually named as one of the most common fears that people have. Believe it or not, the best way to conquer a fear of public speaking is to just do it—a lot. Because the more you do it, the easier it gets. Eventually, you’ll start to get a little more comfortable and it’s not a problem anymore. Believe it or not, you might actually start to enjoy it. This is one reason why it’s important for children and adolescents to give speeches in school.

In this article:

The 2-Minute Speech

School-aged children, 2 minute speech topics: 4 illustrations.

One thing that can help get young children and teens over their initial nervousness is to give them an interesting topic to talk about. Sometimes, it can be something that they genuinely have an interest in and might be excited to give a speech on. Or it can be something funny to help them break through their nervousness.

Topics for young children should be fun, simple, and something they can easily come up with on their own. You don’t want to give them a topic that is too difficult or requires too much preparation. Let’s face it, they’re going to be really nervous. The focus should be learning how to cope with speaking in front of a group comfortably and effectively, not necessarily on the content, subject, or topic.

Topics for teenagers and high school ESL students can be a little more personal or in depth but still needs to be a demonstrative speech, motivational speech, persuasive speech topic, an informative speech topic, or a funny impromptu speech in order to captivate the audience. Depending on the subject of the class where the student is giving the speech, the topic can loosely relate to whatever is being taught. That said, it’s important to remember that teenagers are also going to be nervous—in some cases, very nervous. Perhaps even more so than younger children because teenagers tend to worry more about what other people will think and are very concerned with fitting in.

Choosing the topic is important, especially for a 2-minute speech and will help with student progress. However, there is no point in giving a talk on Donald Trump for a few minutes if you don’t know anything about him. But don’t worry, we have some great ideas.

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List of 2-Minute Speech Topics

• My Favorite Animal
• My Favorite Stuffed Animal
• The Best Toy Ever
• My Favorite Food for Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
• Something I Love To Do for Fun
• How to Build with Lego
• The Best Day of My Life
• The Smartest Cartoon Character
• The Worst Chore
• The Best Cookie
• The Best Place to Go in Summer
• How to Eat an Apple
• Why Is the Sky Blue?
• If I Had a Superpower
• A New Rule I Would Make
• My Favorite Cereal
• What Is the Best Letter of the Alphabet?
• Is Summer Better than Winter?
• When I Grow Up
• Best Thing to Do at Recess
• How to Eat Pancakes
• Pizza Crust: Yes or No?
• A Time I was Brave
• The Greatest Animal on the Farm
• My Favorite T-Shirt
• The Funniest Thing to Do with My Mom/Dad
• What Is the Best Pet?
• Who is My Hero?
• If I Had $100
• The Best Thing about A Farm
• Where Do Rainbows Come From?
• Why I Like Being the Oldest/Youngest Sibling
• How to Have Fun in the Rain
• The Best Thing about October
• The Grossest Pizza Topping
• The Hardest Thing I Ever Did
• Sandwiches: With or Without Crusts
• The Tastiest Fruit
• The Best Thing That Is the Color Red/Blue/Orange
• When I Learned to Tie My Shoes
• Creamy or Chunky Peanut Butter
• Why Does It Rain?
• What Is Thunder?
• Crayons or Markers: Which Are Better?
• How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly
• The Best Thing about Having a Dog/Cat
• My Halloween Costume
• When I Learned to Ride a Bike
• My Best Friend
• How to Pick a Book to Read
• The Best Thing about My Mom/Dad/Sister/Brother
• My Favorite Ice Cream Flavor
• My Favorite Animal at the Zoo
• What Is the Best Color Apple?
• Ketchup On Your French Fries: Yes or No
• Teaching Grandma to Use a Smartphone
• How to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse
• Would You Rather Use Textbooks or Tablets in Class?
• How to Effectively Fake Being Sick
• The Most Annoying Thing my Mom/Dad Ever Did
• Prom: Yay or Nay?
• The Biggest Lesson I Have Learned
• If Time Travel Were Real
• The Stupidest Rule My Parents Have
• A Much Needed Invention
• Why I Love/Hate Vampires
• The Best Book I’ve Ever Read
• How to Tell a Fact from an Opinion
• Explaining Snapchat to Your Parents
• The Best App on My Phone
• Three Things I Can’t Live without
• The Best Lifehack I Ever Heard
• How Do I Feel when My Cell Battery is at 10%?
• The Best Advice I Ever Got
• My Favorite Sandwich
• My Dream Car
• What I’m Dreading about College
• Facebook vs. Twitter
• How Social Media Makes my Life Better/Worse
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Love the ideas they are so funny 🙂

I had to give speech in English in my MORNING assembly Suggest me a topic

Democracy =equality before law Democracy= disparity before law ✓/×

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I have to give a speech on Tuesday can you please assist me I was given the topic the class is the rest not the best

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what my dog is thinking

I need to a speech done in 20 minutes for 3 minutes someone help me with ideas please xxx

plz need a topic right now for school it has to be something you can reserch plz help mehhhh

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Ehm would pls give an example of a heading of a speech presented in a PTA meeting

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im stuck with coments and im freeking out its ment to be handed in today

ummmm why can’t our school just let us do our old speech instead of spending two hole hours on thinking of a new on

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200+ 2-Minute Speech Topics For Students: Engage Your Audience

Public speaking is a crucial skill for personal and professional development, and one effective way to hone this skill is through the practice of 2-minute speech topics for students. These short presentations not only sharpen communication abilities but also cultivate confidence and poise in students. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of 2-minute speeches, discuss the benefits they offer, provide a range of engaging speech topics, and offer tips for successful delivery.

Benefits of Studying 2-Minute SpeechTopics

Table of Contents

The advantages of incorporating 2-minute speech topics for students into a student’s learning journey are manifold. Firstly, these brief presentations offer an excellent opportunity to improve communication skills. 

The concise nature of the speeches demands clarity and precision in conveying ideas, helping students develop a knack for articulating thoughts effectively.

Secondly, engaging in 2-minute speeches enhances public speaking abilities. Students learn to captivate an audience within a short timeframe, a valuable skill in various academic and professional settings. 

This practice also contributes to overcoming stage fright and nervousness, fostering a sense of confidence that extends beyond the realm of public speaking.

Lastly, regular participation in 2-minute speeches contributes to boosted confidence and self-esteem. Success in delivering concise and impactful presentations fosters a positive self-perception, encouraging students to tackle more significant challenges with a newfound assurance.

Criteria for Choosing Speech Topics

Selecting the right topics for 2-minute speech topics for students is crucial for a successful and engaging presentation. To achieve this, consider the following criteria:

• Relevance to Students’ Interests: Topics that resonate with the students’ passions or concerns are more likely to capture their attention and enthusiasm.
• Appropriateness for the Audience and Setting: Ensure that the chosen topic is suitable for the audience’s age group and the setting of the presentation. Avoid controversial subjects that may not be suitable for all audiences.
• Potential for Engagement and Interaction: Opt for topics that encourage audience engagement, whether through thought-provoking questions, interactive elements, or relatable anecdotes.

2-Minute Speech Topics For Students

• The impact of social media on interpersonal relationships.
• How to cultivate a growth mindset for academic success.
• The significance of mental health awareness in schools.
• Exploring the benefits of extracurricular activities on student development.
• The role of empathy in building a positive school culture.
• Overcoming obstacles: A personal journey of resilience and triumph.
• The influence of role models on shaping career aspirations.
• The power of small acts of kindness in creating a positive school environment.
• The future of technology in education: Opportunities and challenges.
• The importance of financial literacy for high school students.
• Unraveling the mysteries of the universe: A brief look at astrophysics.
• Navigating the digital age: Tips for responsible online behavior.
• The impact of climate change on global ecosystems.
• The art of effective time management for student success.
• Embracing diversity: Creating an inclusive school community.
• The psychology behind effective study habits.
• Exploring the history and significance of cultural celebrations.
• The benefits of learning a second language in a globalized world.
• The role of sports in promoting teamwork and leadership skills.
• The journey to self-discovery: Embracing individuality in adolescence.
• Breaking down stereotypes: Challenging societal expectations.
• The influence of literature on shaping perspectives and empathy.
• The power of mindfulness in reducing stress and improving focus.
• A glimpse into the world of artificial intelligence and its applications.
• The impact of music on mood and cognitive performance.
• Fostering environmental consciousness: Small steps for a greener planet.
• The psychology of motivation: How to stay inspired in your studies.
• The history and significance of human rights movements.
• The benefits of learning coding and programming languages.
• Exploring the wonders of the human brain and neuroscience.
• Understanding the importance of sleep for academic success.
• The role of curiosity in sparking creativity and innovation.
• The impact of fast fashion on the environment and ethical alternatives.
• The history and cultural significance of traditional dances.
• The journey to self-acceptance: Embracing flaws and imperfections.
• The benefits of volunteering for personal and community growth.
• The science behind renewable energy sources.
• The power of storytelling in preserving cultural heritage.
• The impact of social movements on shaping societal norms.
• Exploring the mysteries of the deep sea and marine life.
• Overcoming procrastination: Strategies for effective time management.
• The significance of critical thinking in the information age.
• The role of nutrition in supporting cognitive function.
• The art of effective public speaking and presentation skills.
• The impact of video games on cognitive skills and decision-making.
• The benefits of physical activity on mental health.
• The importance of cyberbullying awareness and prevention.
• The influence of family dynamics on personal development.
• The power of goal-setting for academic and personal success.
• The history and cultural significance of traditional cuisines.
• The impact of social isolation on mental health in adolescents.
• The role of art and creativity in expressing emotions.
• The benefits of learning a musical instrument for cognitive development.
• The evolution of communication: From cave drawings to social media.
• Exploring the wonders of space exploration and its advancements.
• The impact of peer pressure on decision-making in adolescence.
• The significance of emotional intelligence in building strong relationships.
• The benefits of participating in debate clubs and public speaking forums.
• The role of humor in reducing stress and improving mood.
• The impact of positive role models on character development.
• The history and cultural significance of ancient civilizations.
• The importance of civic engagement and community involvement.
• The benefits of practicing mindfulness meditation for stress relief.
• The influence of classical literature on modern storytelling.
• The power of gratitude in fostering a positive mindset.
• The impact of social media activism on raising awareness.
• The role of curiosity in scientific discovery and innovation.
• Exploring the history and cultural impact of hip-hop music.
• The benefits of learning about different world religions.
• The significance of effective communication in building relationships.
• The journey to self-improvement: Setting and achieving personal goals.
• The impact of artificial intelligence on the future job market.
• The benefits of learning basic financial skills for future success.
• The influence of popular culture on societal values.
• The importance of empathy in conflict resolution and peacemaking.
• The history and impact of famous inventions on society.
• The role of emotional resilience in overcoming challenges.
• The benefits of learning about different forms of government.
• The power of positive affirmations in shaping self-perception.
• The impact of social media on body image and self-esteem.
• The role of laughter in promoting physical and mental well-being.
• The benefits of learning about world geography and cultures.
• The significance of community service in building character.
• The influence of famous speeches on shaping historical events.
• The impact of globalization on cultural diversity.
• The benefits of learning about different philosophical perspectives.
• The role of effective communication in conflict resolution.
• The journey to discovering personal passions and interests.
• The significance of renewable energy in combating climate change.
• The power of positive thinking in overcoming adversity.
• The impact of technology on the future of healthcare.
• The benefits of learning basic first aid and emergency response.
• The influence of literature on fostering empathy and compassion.
• The role of social skills in building strong interpersonal relationships.
• The importance of setting boundaries for mental health.
• The impact of gaming on hand-eye coordination and problem-solving.
• The benefits of learning about the history of human rights movements.
• The role of resilience in overcoming academic challenges.
• The significance of cultural exchange programs in promoting understanding.
• The power of effective storytelling in capturing an audience’s attention.
• The impact of social media on political awareness and engagement.
• The benefits of learning about different forms of art and expression.
• The influence of peer support in navigating adolescence.
• The importance of digital literacy in the information age.
• The role of hobbies in promoting work-life balance.
• The benefits of learning about sustainable living practices.
• The impact of positive affirmations on mental health and well-being.
• The significance of learning about historical revolutions and movements.
• The power of effective communication in leadership roles.
• The journey to developing emotional intelligence in relationships.

Tips for Delivering a Successful 2-Minute Speech Topics For Students

Once the topic is chosen, the delivery of the speech is crucial for its success. Here are some tips to ensure a successful presentation:

• Practice and Timing: Rehearse the speech multiple times to ensure it fits within the 2-minute timeframe. Practice also helps improve fluency and reduces nervousness.
• Engaging the Audience: Use techniques like eye contact, gestures, and vocal variation to keep the audience engaged. A lively and interactive presentation is more likely to leave a lasting impression.
• Using Visuals or Props Effectively: Depending on the topic, consider incorporating visuals or props to enhance the audience’s understanding and engagement. Visual aids can be particularly effective in conveying complex ideas.

Resources for Further Assistance

For students looking to enhance their public speaking skills further, various resources are available:

• Online Platforms for Speech Topic Ideas: Websites like TED, Khan Academy, and various public speaking forums offer a wealth of speech topic ideas and inspiration.
• Public Speaking Courses or Workshops: Local community centers, schools, or online platforms often offer public speaking courses or workshops that provide valuable insights and practical tips.
• Speechwriting and Delivery Tips from Experts: Books, podcasts, and online articles by experienced public speakers can offer valuable advice on speechwriting and effective delivery.

In conclusion, mastering the art of 2-minute speech topics for students is a valuable skill for students, offering benefits that extend beyond the realm of public speaking. By choosing engaging topics, practicing effective delivery, and avoiding common mistakes, students can develop into confident and articulate communicators. 

The diverse range of speech topics provided, coupled with additional resources for further assistance, ensures that students have the tools they need to succeed in their public speaking endeavors. 

So, embrace the opportunity to speak for two minutes, and watch your communication skills soar to new heights.

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2-Minute Speech Topics for Students PLUS Guide

Choosing engaging 2-minute speech topics for students is crucial for developing their public speaking skills. This short format is perfect for honing impromptu speaking abilities, teaching learners to articulate their ideas quickly and effectively.

A 2-minute speech refers to a brief, concise speech designed to be delivered within a span of approximately two minutes. This format demands that the speaker be particularly mindful of time , focusing on presenting their main points clearly and succinctly to effectively convey their message. Ideal for educational settings, impromptu speaking opportunities, and situations requiring quick presentations of ideas, 2-minute speeches challenge students and speakers to hone their public speaking skills, including clarity, persuasion, and the ability to engage an audience within a limited timeframe. Despite their brevity, these speeches can cover a wide range of topics, from societal issues to personal reflections, making them a versatile tool for developing communication skills.

2-Minute Speech Topics for Students PLUS Guide for Each

Below, we discuss a variety of topics suitable for this purpose, accompanied by a guide on how to deliver them effectively.

#1 Climate Change: The Immediate Challenge

Climate Change stands as a critical issue, offering a rich vein for 2-minute speech topics . It allows students to delve into urgent environmental concerns, making it a compelling subject for public speaking . This topic also lends itself well to impromptu speaking, as it is relevant and familiar to many.

• Start with a Hook : Initiate with a striking fact about climate change to captivate your audience.
• State the Problem and Impact : Succinctly explain what climate change is and its dire consequences on both the environment and human life.
• Call to Action : End your speech with a persuasive appeal for personal or communal action to combat climate change.

#2 The Power of Reading

Reading is a timeless topic that emphasizes the importance of literature and learning, making it an excellent choice for 2-minute speech topics . It encourages students to explore the benefits of reading, from knowledge acquisition to imagination enhancement, perfect for public speaking sessions. This theme is especially suited for impromptu speeches, as it relates to personal experiences and the universal value of reading.

• Highlight Benefits : Briefly discuss the numerous benefits of reading, such as improved vocabulary, knowledge, and empathy.
• Personal Story : Share a short personal anecdote about how reading has impacted your life or the lives of others.
• Encourage Participation : Conclude by motivating your peers to read more, suggesting starting with a book that interests them.

#3 Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking

Addressing the fear of public speaking is not just meta but also immensely beneficial for students learning to navigate public speaking themselves. It’s a prime example of a 2-minute topic where speakers can share tips and personal experiences, making it ideal for impromptu sessions where empathy and personal growth are highlighted.

• Acknowledge the Fear : Begin by acknowledging that fear of public speaking is common and understandable.
• Share Strategies : Offer brief, effective strategies for overcoming this fear, such as practice, visualization, and focusing on the message rather than the audience.
• Inspire Confidence : Conclude with a positive note, encouraging your classmates to see each public speaking opportunity as a chance to grow and improve.

#4 Social Media: Connecting or Isolating?

Social Media offers a nuanced topic that explores the dual role of digital platforms in fostering connections and potentially leading to isolation. It’s a relevant issue for students and an engaging subject for 2-minute speeches , especially in public speaking and impromptu contexts where opinions and personal experiences can spark thoughtful discussion.

• Present the Paradox : Start by outlining how social media can both connect people worldwide and create feelings of isolation among users.
• Evidence and Examples : Briefly cite studies or anecdotes that highlight the positive and negative aspects of social media use.
• Personal Stance : End by offering a balanced view or personal opinion on how to use social media healthily, encouraging a thoughtful approach among peers.

#5 Climate Change: The Immediate Challenge

• Topic Focus : This 2-minute speech encourages students to delve into the urgent issue of climate change, emphasizing its significance and the immediate actions required to address it.
• Begin with Impact : Initiate with a striking fact about climate change to capture attention.
• Clarify the Issue : Quickly outline what climate change is and its potential impacts on our world and daily lives.
• Encourage Action : Conclude with a persuasive call to action, urging listeners to adopt more sustainable practices in their lives.

#6 The Power of Reading

• Topic Focus : In this speech, students explore the transformative impact reading can have on individuals’ lives, stressing the benefits beyond mere entertainment.
• Engage with a Question : Start by asking the audience about their last impactful reading experience to engage them.
• Highlight Benefits : Briefly discuss the benefits of reading, such as improved empathy, cognitive skills, and knowledge acquisition.
• Inspire Participation : Encourage listeners to dedicate time to reading daily, suggesting it can be a powerful tool for personal growth and understanding of the world.

#7 The Importance of Teamwork

• Topic Focus : This topic invites students to consider the value of teamwork in achieving goals, whether in sports, academics, or extracurricular activities.
• Start with an Anecdote : Kick off with a short story of a successful team, highlighting the collective effort.
• Discuss Key Principles : Outline the principles that make a team successful, such as communication, trust, and shared goals.
• Motivate Collaboration : End with a call to inspire students to embrace teamwork in various aspects of their lives, illustrating how it can lead to greater accomplishments.

#8 Embracing Diversity

• Topic Focus : A 2-minute speech on embracing diversity encourages students to appreciate and learn from differences in culture, opinion, and lifestyle.
• Open with Facts : Present intriguing statistics or facts about the world’s diversity to pique interest.
• Share Personal Insights : If appropriate, share a brief personal experience of learning from diversity.
• Call for Openness : Conclude by encouraging students to be open to new experiences and viewpoints, highlighting how this openness enriches personal and communal life.

#9 The Influence of Social Media

• Topic Focus : In this speech, students are urged to explore the dual-edged impact of social media on society, focusing on both its benefits and potential downsides.
• Engage with Contrast : Begin by presenting the contrasting impacts of social media, from connectivity and learning opportunities to issues like cyberbullying and misinformation.
• Personal Reflection : Encourage a moment of reflection on personal use of social media and its effects on one’s life and mental health.
• Encourage Balance : End with advice on maintaining a healthy balance with social media use, emphasizing the importance of real-world connections and experiences.

#10 The Future of Technology

• Topic Focus : Students discuss the rapid advancement of technology and its potential future impacts on society, considering both the opportunities and challenges it presents.
• Spark Curiosity : Kick off with intriguing examples of emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence and renewable energy sources.
• Discuss Implications : Briefly explore the potential benefits these technologies could bring, as well as ethical considerations and challenges.
• Inspire Engagement : Conclude with a call to action for students to engage with technology responsibly and creatively, emphasizing the role of the next generation in shaping the future.

#11 Environmental Conservation

• Topic Focus : This topic challenges students to consider the critical importance of environmental conservation and how individual actions contribute to a larger impact.
• Start with the Big Picture : Introduce the concept of environmental conservation and its significance in protecting our planet for future generations.
• Highlight Actionable Steps : Provide examples of simple, actionable steps everyone can take to reduce their environmental footprint, like reducing waste and conserving water.
• Call for Collective Action : Encourage a collective effort towards environmental conservation, stressing that every small action contributes to a larger change.

#12 The Value of Lifelong Learning

• Topic Focus : Here, students are encouraged to consider the benefits of adopting a mindset geared towards lifelong learning, both personally and professionally.
• Inspire with Benefits : Begin by outlining the benefits of lifelong learning, such as staying adaptable, improving skill sets, and enhancing personal fulfillment.
• Personal Growth : Highlight how lifelong learning contributes to personal growth and the ability to navigate life’s challenges more effectively.
• Encourage Curiosity : Conclude with a call to remain curious and open to new learning opportunities, emphasizing that learning does not end with formal education.

These topics not only aid in developing public speaking skills among students but also encourage critical thinking and engagement with current issues. Through 2-minute speeches , learners can practice articulating their thoughts under time constraints, a valuable skill in both academic and personal contexts.

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Famous 1-2 minute speeches of all time.

Words are something that can move a nation, break a heart or even make someone’s day. Speeches have been used from the beginning to motivate crowds and nations worldwide to achieve individual and collective interests. For example, Martin Luther King’s famous speech “I have a dream” played a big role in moving people into the civil rights movement.

Here are the most famous 1-2 minute speeches of all time:

1. “ Without commitment, you’ll never start… ” – Denzel Washington

This was a famous two-minute acceptance speech by Denzel Washington in 2017 . Denzel Washington acted in several inspirational movies . Washington won an NAACP Image Award for ‘Outstanding Actor in a motion picture’ . His speech really inspires one to keep going and never give up.

Here is the full speech:

Without commitment, you’ll never start, but more importantly, without consistency, you’ll never finish. It’s not easy. If it were easy there’d be no Kerry Washington. If it were easy there’d be no Taraji Henson, (corrects himself) P  Henson, it it were easy there’d be no Octavia Spencer. But Not only that, if it were easy there’d be no Viola Davis. If it were easy there’d be no Mykelti Williamson, no Stephen McKinley Henderson, no Russell Hornsby, if it were easy there’d be no Denzel Washington.

So, keep working, keep striving, never give up, fall down seven times, get up eight.

Ease is a greater threat to progress than hardship. (x2)

So keep moving, keep growing, keep learning.

See you at work.

2. “ Sans teeth, sans eyes, sans taste, sans everything. ” – William Shakespeare

From ‘As You Like It’, Shakespeare wrote one of the greatest speeches of all time. Read the speech below:

All the world’s a stage, And all the men and women merely players: They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts, His acts being seven ages.

At first the infant, Mewling and puking in the nurse’s arms. And then the whining school-boy, with his satchel And shining morning face, creeping like snail Unwillingly to school. And then the lover, Sighing like furnace, with a woeful ballad Made to his mistress’ eyebrow. Then a soldier, Full of strange oaths and bearded like the pard, Jealous in honour, sudden and quick in quarrel,

Seeking the bubble reputation Even in the cannon’s mouth. And then the justice, In fair round belly with good capon lined, With eyes severe and beard of formal cut, Full of wise saws and modern instances; And so he plays his part. The sixth age shifts Into the lean and slipper’d pantaloon, With spectacles on nose and pouch on side, His youthful hose, well saved, a world too wide For his shrunk shank; and his big manly voice, Turning again toward childish treble, pipes And whistles in his sound. Last scene of all, That ends this strange eventful history, Is second childishness and mere oblivion, Sans teeth, sans eyes, sans taste, sans everything.

3.” The world needs more of you. ” – Alexa Rose Carlin

This is one of the shortest yet most inspiring speeches you will find on the internet by Alexa Rose Carlin. She talks about how the world needs more of “you “. It is short yet sends a strong message. You can check the 1-minute on YouTube . Here is the transcript of the speech:

If you want something you’ve never had before

you must do something you’ve never done before

it’s taking you years of tragedy of

losing myself inside only to realize

what I must have always known that you

can be anything you dream, dream, dream,

until your dreams come true act on your

passion and when your shot comes, take it

look fear in the face and embrace it the

time is now the moment is now believe in

yourself like I believe this to be true

the world needs more of you.

4. “ If you are happy on this journey you will have won already .” – Jim Carrey

While Jim Carrey makes everyone laugh with his comical roles, he also knows how to move them with his powerful words. Here is a transcript of a short speech by him:

Happiness does not come from the processions that you can accumulate or the status you can make for yourself. Many people have the richness of this, but are not fulfilled. But to be fulfilled comes from the enjoyment of life and what you do with the time you have. Don’t strive for something because you feel it will make you happy, instead find the enjoyment of something and see where it takes you.

If you are happy on this journey you will have won already.

Emotion comes and goes. Sometimes we will feel down, it is a part of life. But know that it will always fade and be forgotten. The ideas we have shape us into new and unique personalities. We are all different and should embrace who we are. Don’t let anyone tell you that you should be different.

Depression can come from you trying to be someone that you are not. You may be trying to fit into another crowd just to be liked, or that you need to show others a different version of who you are. Never do this. Be yourself, do the things that make you happy and those who understand will be there for you.

So, what do all these famous 1 & 2-minute speeches of all time teach us? Well apart from the content that the speakers referred to, what we also learned here is that you can reach out to people even with fewer words and lesser time.

Speeches you must read: Famous 5 Minute Speeches.

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Great Movie Speeches in 2 minutes (8 examples)

Movie speeches are a great opportunity see how much impact you can have in a short space of time.

I watched ‘ Fair Game ‘ last night (with Sean Penn and Naomi Watts) which ended with a powerful movie speech. Powerful and short . In fact, the best movie speeches are only about 100 seconds. (The Gettysburg Address was about 2 min long).

Hopefully these movies speeches will get you in the mood to produce powerful business presentations (most of which are longer than they need to be ).

And by the way, the speakers giving these movie speeches  don’t rush . There are long pauses . In fact, they generally speak at half the pace of most business presentations. Yet they convey so much.

You can say a lot in a minute or two if you clarify your ideas and craft your messages .

List of great movie speeches…

TRANSCRIPT:

“I ain’t draft-dodgin.’ I ain’t burnin’ no flag. And I ain’t runnin’ to Canada. I’m stayin’ right here.

You wanna send me to jail? Fine, you go right ahead. I’ve been in jail for 400 years. I can be there for 4 or 5 more.

But I ain’t goin’ no 10,000 miles to help murder and kill other poor people . If I wanna die, I’ll die right here, right now fightin’ you — if I wanna die.

You my enemy. Not no Chinese, no Viet Cong, no Japanese.

You my opposer — when I want freedom.

You my opposer — when I want justice.

You my opposer — when I want equality.

Want me to go to somewhere and I fight for you? You won’t even stand up for me right here in America for my rights and my religious beliefs. You won’t even stand up for me right here at home .”

A Beautiful Mind (2002)

“I’ve always believed in numbers and the equations and logics that lead to reason .

But after a lifetime of such pursuits, I ask,

What truly is logic? Who decides reason?

My quest has taken me through the physical, the metaphysical, the delusional — and back. And I have made the most important discovery of my career, the most important discovery of my life: It is only in the mysterious equations of love that any logic or reasons can be found.

I’m only here tonight because of you [wife, Alicia]. You are the reason I am. You are all my reasons . Thank you.”

Fair Game (2011)

(Less than 2 mins) Enlightening movie speech about the decision to go to war in Iraq. Watch the movie speech here.

“ How many of you know the 16 words in President Bush’s State of the Union Address that led us to war? (none) How many know my wife’s name? (everyone) .

How can you know one, and not the other? When did the question move from ‘Why are we going to war?’ to ‘Who is this man’s wife?’

I asked the first question, and somebody else asked the second. And it worked. Because none of us know the truth. The offence that was committed was not committed against me, it was not committed against my wife – it was committed against you. All of you.

If that makes you angry or feel misrepresented, do something about it.

When Benjamin Franklin left Independence Hall, just after the second draft of it, he was approached by a woman on the street, the woman said, ‘Mr Franklin, what manner of government have you bequeathed us? And Franklin said, ‘A Republic madam… if you can keep it.’

The responsibility of a country is not in the hands of a privileged few. We are strong and we are free from tyranny as long as each one of us remembers his or her duty as a citizen. Whether it’s to report a pothole at the top of your street, or lies in a State of The Union Address, speak out! Ask those questions. Demand that truth. Democracy is not a free ride man, I’m here to tell you.

But this is where we live. And if we do our job, this is where our children will live. God bless America.”

Wall street (1987)

“Well, ladies and gentlemen, we’re not here to indulge in fantasy , but in political and economic reality. America has become a second-rate power. Its trade deficit and its fiscal deficit are at nightmare proportions. Now, in the days of the free market, when our country was a top industrial power, there was accountability to the stockholder. The Carnegies, the Mellons, the men that built this great industrial empire, made sure of it because it was their money at stake. Today, management has no stake in the company!

All together, these men sitting up here [Teldar management] own less than 3 percent of the company. And where does Mr. Cromwell[CEO] put his million-dollar salary? Not in Teldar stock; he owns less than 1 percent.

You own the company. That’s right — you, the stockholder.

Teldar Paper has 33 different vice presidents, each earning over 200 thousand dollars a year. Now, I have spent the last two months analyzing what all these guys do, and I still can’t figure it out. One thing I do know is that our paper company lost 110 million dollars last year, and I’ll bet that half of that was spent in all the paperwork going back and forth between all these vice presidents.

And you are all being royally screwed over by these, these bureaucrats, with their steak lunches, their hunting and fishing trips, their corporate jets and golden parachutes.

The new law of evolution in corporate American seems to be survival of the un-fittest . Well in my book you either do it right or you get eliminated. In the last seven deals that I’ve been involved with there were 2.5 million stockholders who have made a pre-tax profit of 11 million dollars. I am not a destroyer of companies, I am a liberator of them!

The point is ladies and gentlemen that Greed, for lack of a better word, is good. Greed is right, greed works. Greed clarifies, cuts through and captures the essence of the evolutionary spirit. Greed in all of its forms. Greed for life, money, love, knowledge, has marked the upward surge of mankind, and greed – you mark my words – will not only save Teldar Paper, but that other malfunctioning corporation called the U.S.A .

Thank you very much.”

The Verdict (1982)

“Well…You know, so much of the time we’re just lost. We say, “Please, God, tell us what is right. Tell us what is true.”

I mean there is no justice. The rich win; the poor are powerless. We become tired of hearing people lie. And after a time we become dead, a little dead. We think of ourselves as victims — and we become victims. We become weak; we doubt ourselves; we doubt our beliefs; we doubt our institutions; and we doubt the law.

But today you are the law . You are the law, not some book, not the lawyers, not a marble statue, or the trappings of the court. See, those are just symbols of our desire to be just. They are, in fact, a prayer, I mean a fervent and a frightened prayer.

In my religion, they say, “Act as if you had faith; faith will be given to you.”

If we are to have faith in justice we need only to believe in ourselves and act with justice. See, I believe there is justice in our hearts .”

Malice (1993)

(90 seconds) One of the most devious movie speeches; where Alec Baldwin plays a Doctor intentionally losing a malpractice suit to collect a share of the insurance money. Watch the movie speech here.

“ The question is, “Do I have a ‘God Complex’ ?

Which makes me wonder if this lawyer has any idea as to the kind of grades one has to receive in college to be accepted at a top medical school.

Or if you have the vaguest clue as to how talented someone has to be to lead a surgical team.

I have an M.D. from Harvard. I am board certified in cardiothoracic medicine and trauma surgery. I have been awarded citations from seven different medical boards in New England; and I am never, ever sick at sea.

So I ask you, when someone goes into that chapel and they fall on their knees and they pray to God that their wife doesn’t miscarry, or that their daughter doesn’t bleed to death, or that their mother doesn’t suffer acute neural trauma from postoperative shock, who do you think they’re praying to? Now, you go ahead and read your Bible, Dennis, and you go to your church and with any luck you might win the annual raffle. But if you’re looking for God, he was in operating room number two on November 17th, and he doesn’t like to be second guessed.

Let me tell you something: You ask me if I have a God complex?

….and this side show is over.”

Gandhi (1982)

(Less than 2 mins) Movies speeches like this show how messages can change the world! Dramatic yet calm speech advocating a policy of non-violence while opposing an unjust law.

Person from the large, angry audience : “ In this cause, I would be willing to die! “

Gandhi : I praise such courage. I need such courage because in this cause I, too, am prepared to die. But, my friend, there is no cause for which I am prepared to kill . Whatever they do to us, we will attack no one, kill no one, but we will not give our fingerprints — not one of us.

They will imprison us, and they will fine us. They will seize our possessions, but they cannot take away our self-respect if we do not give it to them.

Audience Member : Have you been to prison?! They beat us and torture us! I say that we should —

Gandhi : I am asking you to fight! To fight against their anger, not to provoke it. We will not strike a blow, but we will receive them. And through our pain we will make them see their injustice, and it will hurt — as all fighting hurts. But we cannot lose. We cannot. They may torture my body, break my bones, even kill me. Then, they will have my dead body — not my obedience.

We are Hindu and Muslim, children of God, each one of us. Let us take a solemn oath, in His name, that come what may we will not submit to this law.”

The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

(2 mins) Great movie speech where Morgan Freeman’s character ‘Redding’ addresses the parole board for the final time. Watch the movie speech here.

“ Parole Board Interviewer : Please, sit down. Ellis Boyd Redding, your files say you’ve served 40 years of a life sentence. You feel you’ve been rehabilitated?

Redding : Rehabilitated? Well, now, let me see. You know, I don’t have any idea what that means .

Parole Board Interviewer : Uh, well, it means you’re ready to rejoin society.

Redding : I know what you think it means, sonny. To me, it’s just a made up word, a politician’s word, so that young fellas like yourself can wear a suit and a tie and have a job. What do you really wanna know? Am I sorry for what I did?

Parole Board Interviewer : Well, are you?

Redding : There’s not a day goes by I don’t feel regret. Not because I’m in here, or because you think I should. I look back on the way I was then, a young, stupid kid who committed that terrible crime. I wanna talk to him. I wanna try to talk some sense to him — tell him the way things are. But I can’t. That kid’s long gone and this old man is all that’s left. I gotta live with that.

Rehabilitated? It’s just a bullshit word.

So you go on and stamp your form, sonny, and stop wasting my time. Because to tell you the truth, I don’t give a shit.

Parole Board Interviewer : [Stamp: APPROVED]”

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• Short Speech Topics

You will find 20 excellent short speech topics below that work when time is limited. Choosing a meaningful short speech topic may difficult in some circumstances.

As Mark Twain once said

If you want me to give a 2 hour presentation, I am ready today. If you want only a 5 minute speech, it will take me 2 weeks to prepare.

Because it's infinitely harder to communicate ideas and make an impact in a short space of time.

This, then, makes it that much more important to choose the right short speech topic.

Choose the wrong theme for your speech and you will struggle to deliver a presentation that covers it adequately. Choose the right topic, however, and you can create something powerful that will stick in the minds of your listeners, even if you are only able to speak for a few minutes.

Tips for Creating a Short Speech

• Pick something you feel strongly about. It's easier to make an impact in a short time when you speak with real passion.
• Pick something your audience is interested in too! All the passion in the world won't engage your listeners if the topic hold no interest for them!
• Consider speaking about a personal experience. Heartfelt emotions will be more keenly felt by your audience than those mustered up solely for the purpose of your speech!
• Focus on keeping your phrases brief and your words simple. See this page for help with this . A short speech is not the place for meandering thoughts and complicated sentence structures. Conciseness is key!
• Make sure your speech still includes the three key elements of any good presentation - a strong introduction , body and conclusion.
• Clearly identify the purpose of your speech. Is it to inform? Educate? Motivate? Criticize? Explain? Make sure that every word you write supports your overall purpose.
• Think hard before choosing a persuasive topic - this can be one of the most difficult types of speeches to deliver in a short space of time! It's not impossible, though - so be sure to have a strong argument if you want to convice people to think differently about something in only 5 minutes or so!
• Create a good title (if you will have the opportunity to use one).

Example Formats for Your Short Speech

Here's a simple template for a short persuasive speech...

SUPPORTING REASONS

   1. _________    2. _________    3. _________

   For example....

   Treating All Children as 'Winners' - Regardless of Success - is Harmful

- SUPPORTING REASONS

   1. It is not a reflection of real life.    2. It stifles competitiveness.    3. It does not reward hard work and achievement.

- CONCLUSION

For example....

• It is not a reflection of real life.
• It stifles competitiveness.
• It does not reward hard work and achievement.
• Whilst no one should be criticized for failure, success should be recognized and honored in order to encourage competitiveness in our children.

- INTRODUCTION

   Have you always wondered how to make a paper plane that actually flies?

- CLEAR STEPS TO DEMONSTRATE

    Fly the plane!

Demonstrations make great short speeches because these are very visual and thus make a big impact - but time yourself beforehand to be absolutely sure that you can complete your demonstration in the time allowed! Choose a good short speech topic like the ones listed below to ensure a successful presentation.

Problem and Solution

Divide this speech into 2 parts.

• First, set out the problem.
• Then, present the solution .

The problem part should be the longest . This may sound illogical, but it gives the solution more impact when the problem is presented in detail. Describe the problem as vividly as possible and the audience will be looking forward to hearing your ingenious solution!

20 Short Speech Topics

• How social media is uniting the world
• Why pets are better than children
• 5 things to do with a Raspberry Pi
• How to solve the problem of online trolls
• My wish for humanity
• How to take the perfect selfie
• Why we should all be vegan
• If I were an animal I'd be a______
• A day in the life of a dollar bill
• The butterfly effect (how one tiny change in circumstances can alter the course of your life - focus on one example)
• 5 ways to save time in the kitchen
• If I had 5 minutes to talk to Donald Trump I would _____
• What advice I wish someone gave my parents before I was born
• Why the Gettysburg Address is the best speech ever written
• Online dating - cringeworthy or cool?
• My most embarrassing moment
• If I won the lottery I would _____
• Why ______ is the best book ever written
• Why it's sometimes necessary to lie
• How to write a short speech (they won't be expecting that one!)

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Top 150 2-Minute Speech Topics for Students

Giving a speech can be exciting and a little scary, especially for students. A good speech topic makes all the difference, helping you feel confident and keeping your audience interested. Whether you’re in school, a club, or participating in a competition, finding a great topic is the first step.

This blog lists 150 fun, simple, and engaging speech topics perfect for a quick 2-minute speech. These topics cover various interests, from current events to hobbies and personal experiences, so there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive in and find the perfect speech topic for you!

Also read: How Can a Writer Best Highlight the Qualities of the Subject in a Personal Narrative?

• The Importance of Reading Books – Why everyone should read more books.
• My Favorite Hobby – Share what you love doing in your free time.
• The Benefits of Exercise – How staying active helps your body and mind.
• Why Recycling Matters – Simple ways to help the environment.
• A Memorable Vacation – Describe your best holiday experience.
• The Power of Positive Thinking – How staying positive can change your life.
• Why Pets Are Great – The joys of having a pet.
• The Best Movie I’ve Seen – Talk about a film that really impressed you.
• Learning a New Skill – Why trying something new is exciting and rewarding.
• The Importance of Family – How family shapes who we are.
• My Favorite School Subject – What makes this subject interesting and fun.
• The Impact of Technology on Our Lives – How gadgets and the internet affect us daily.
• Why Volunteering Is Important – The benefits of helping others.
• Healthy Eating Habits – Tips for eating better and feeling great.
• The Magic of Music – How music can lift our spirits.
• My Role Model – Talk about someone who inspires you.
• The Benefits of Team Sports – Why playing on a team is great for you.
• A Day in the Life of a Student – What your typical day looks like.
• Why We Should Save Water – Easy ways to conserve water.
• The Fun of Learning New Languages – Why learning a new language is awesome.
• The Best Book I Have Read – Share what makes it your favorite.
• Why Time Management Is Important – How to use your time wisely.
• The Benefits of Yoga – How yoga helps your body and mind.
• The Importance of Honesty – Why being truthful matters.
• My Dream Job – What you want to be when you grow up and why.
• The Wonders of Space – Interesting facts about the universe.
• Why Friendships Matter – The value of having good friends.
• The Impact of Social Media – How social media affects our lives.
• The Joy of Cooking – Why cooking is a fun and useful skill.
• The Importance of Setting Goals – How goals help you achieve more.
• My Favorite Sport – What makes it exciting and fun to play or watch.
• Why We Should Protect Endangered Species – Ways to help save animals.
• The Value of a Good Education – Why learning is important for your future.
• The Excitement of Traveling – Why visiting new places is great.
• The Power of Kindness – How small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
• The Importance of Sleep – Why getting enough rest is crucial.
• Why Art Matters – The impact of art on our lives.
• The Benefits of Meditation – How meditation can help you feel calm and focused.
• Why We Should Care About Global Warming – Simple actions to help our planet.
• The Joy of Playing an Instrument – How music can be a fun hobby.
• The Importance of Being Respectful – How showing respect to others is important.
• The Thrill of Extreme Sports – What makes extreme sports exciting.
• Why It’s Important to Listen to Others – How good listening skills benefit us.
• The History of Your Favorite Holiday – Interesting facts about a holiday you love.
• Why Nature is Important – The benefits of spending time outdoors.
• The Benefits of Journaling – How writing in a journal can help you.
• The Importance of Teamwork – How working together helps achieve goals.
• The Impact of Pollution – What we can do to reduce pollution.
• Why We Should Be Grateful – The benefits of being thankful.
• The Fun of Learning Science – Cool science facts that amaze you.
• The Role of Teachers in Our Lives – Why teachers are important.
• Why Everyone Should Try Gardening – The joys of growing plants.
• The Excitement of Solving Puzzles – How puzzles are fun and good for the brain.
• The Importance of Healthy Relationships – How good relationships make life better.
• The History of Your Hometown – Share interesting facts about where you live.
• Why Protecting Forests is Important – How forests help the environment.
• The Benefits of Outdoor Activities – Why spending time outside is great.
• The Importance of a Balanced Diet – How to eat healthily.
• The Joy of Watching Cartoons – Why cartoons are fun for all ages.
• Why Safety Rules are Important – How following rules keeps us safe.
• The Benefits of Having a Mentor – How mentors can guide and inspire you.
• The Magic of Fairy Tales – Why we love fairy tales and their lessons.
• Why Everyone Should Try Painting – The joy of creating art.
• The Importance of Practicing Good Hygiene – How good habits keep us healthy.
• The Excitement of Space Exploration – How exploring space is fascinating.
• The Benefits of Reading Newspapers – Why staying informed is important.
• The Joy of Building Models – How building models can be a fun hobby.
• Why Conservation Efforts Matter – How protecting the environment is crucial.
• The Importance of Self-Discipline – How being disciplined helps you succeed.
• The Joy of Watching Sports – Why watching sports is exciting.
• Why Handwriting Matters – The benefits of writing by hand.
• The Impact of Good Manners – How being polite helps us get along.
• The Fun of Collecting Things – Why collecting can be a rewarding hobby.
• The Benefits of Studying History – How learning about the past helps us understand the present.
• The Joy of Playing Board Games – How board games bring fun and learning.
• The Importance of Critical Thinking – How thinking carefully helps you make better decisions.
• Why We Should Support Local Businesses – The benefits of shopping locally.
• The Joy of Making Crafts – How creating crafts can be a fun activity.
• The Importance of Good Posture – How standing and sitting properly helps your health.
• The Benefits of Learning Math – Why math skills are important in everyday life.
• The Joy of Visiting Museums – How museums make learning fun.
• Why Everyone Should Try Dancing – The fun and benefits of dancing.
• The Importance of Sun Protection – How to protect yourself from the sun.
• The Joy of Playing Chess – Why chess is a great game for the mind.
• Why We Should Respect Different Cultures – How learning about other cultures enriches our lives.
• The Benefits of Keeping a Clean Space – How a tidy space helps you feel better.
• The Fun of DIY Projects – Why doing it yourself is rewarding.
• The Importance of Learning Geography – How knowing about the world helps us.
• The Joy of Writing Stories – Why creating your own stories is fun.
• The Benefits of Joining Clubs – How being part of a club can be great.
• The Importance of Fresh Air – Why spending time outside is healthy.
• The Joy of Playing Video Games – Why video games can be fun and educational.
• The Benefits of Learning to Code – How coding skills are useful and fun.
• The Importance of Voting – Why participating in elections matters.
• The Joy of Doing Science Experiments – How experiments make learning science fun.
• Why We Should Appreciate Nature – The beauty and benefits of the natural world.
• The Benefits of Learning History – How history helps us learn from the past.
• The Joy of Baking – Why baking is a fun and tasty activity.
• The Importance of Good Study Habits – How good habits help you learn better.
• The Benefits of Learning About Different Cultures – How cultural knowledge broadens your perspective.
• The Joy of Reading Comics – Why comics are entertaining and fun to read.
• The Importance of Following Rules – How rules help us live together peacefully.
• The Benefits of Public Speaking – How speaking in public builds confidence.
• The Joy of Playing with Toys – How toys make us happy and creative.
• The Importance of Being Punctual – Why being on time is important.
• The Benefits of Having a Pet – How pets make our lives better.
• The Joy of Learning About Animals – Why animals are fascinating and important.
• The Importance of Water Conservation – How saving water helps the planet.
• The Benefits of Being Organized – How organization makes life easier.
• The Joy of Creating Art – Why making art is fun and fulfilling.
• The Importance of Communication Skills – How good communication helps in life.
• The Benefits of Learning First Aid – Why knowing first aid is important.
• The Joy of Celebrating Traditions – How traditions bring joy and unity.
• The Importance of Healthy Snacks – How snacks can be tasty and good for you.
• The Benefits of Learning About Plants – How plants are essential to life on Earth.
• The Joy of Playing Musical Instruments – Why making music is fun and rewarding.
• The Importance of Safe Internet Use – How to stay safe online.
• The Benefits of Learning Financial Literacy – How understanding money helps you in life.
• The Joy of Watching Documentaries – How documentaries make learning interesting.
• The Importance of Clean Water – Why everyone needs access to clean water.
• The Benefits of Gardening – How gardening is good for you and the environment.
• The Joy of Learning About Dinosaurs – Why dinosaurs are fascinating.
• The Importance of Physical Fitness – How staying fit keeps you healthy.
• The Benefits of Practicing Gratitude – How being grateful makes you happier.
• The Joy of Learning About Space – Why space exploration is exciting.
• The Importance of Fair Play – How playing fair makes games more enjoyable.
• The Benefits of Learning About History – How history helps us understand the world.
• The Joy of Exploring Nature – Why spending time in nature is wonderful.
• The Importance of Nutrition – How eating right keeps you healthy.
• The Benefits of Being Patient – How patience helps you in many situations.
• The Joy of Learning About Inventions – Why inventions are interesting and important.
• The Importance of Physical Activity – How moving your body keeps you fit.
• The Benefits of Being Curious – How curiosity leads to learning and discovery.
• The Joy of Watching Animated Movies – Why animated films are fun for all ages.
• The Importance of Setting Priorities – How prioritizing helps you manage your time.
• The Benefits of Being Polite – How good manners help you get along with others.
• The Joy of Exploring New Places – Why traveling is fun and educational.
• The Importance of Mental Health – How taking care of your mind is crucial.
• The Benefits of Learning About Ecosystems – How understanding ecosystems helps protect the environment.
• The Joy of Sharing Stories – Why storytelling is a powerful way to connect with others.
• The Importance of Saving Money – How saving helps you achieve your goals.
• The Benefits of Learning to Swim – How swimming is a fun and useful skill.
• The Joy of Watching Wildlife – Why observing animals in their natural habitat is fascinating.
• The Importance of Diversity – How diversity makes our world richer and more interesting.
• The Benefits of Learning About Technology – How technology shapes our lives.
• The Joy of Reading Fairy Tales – Why fairy tales are magical and timeless.
• The Importance of Exercise for Kids – How staying active helps kids grow strong and healthy.
• The Benefits of Learning Public Speaking Skills – How speaking confidently helps in many areas of life.
• The Joy of Creating Comics – Why making comics is a fun and creative activity.
• The Importance of Being Creative – How creativity helps you solve problems and express yourself.

Also read: How Many Years is a Master’s Degree in Education?

Choosing the right topic for a 2-minute speech can make all the difference in how confident you feel and how engaged your audience is. With these 150 speech topics, you have a wide variety of options to choose from, whether you’re interested in discussing your favorite hobbies, current events, or personal experiences. Remember, the key to a great speech is to speak from the heart and share what you’re passionate about. So pick a topic that excites you, practice your delivery, and enjoy the experience of sharing your thoughts with others.

Related Posts

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Home » Blog » General » The Power of Gratitude: A Quick 2-Minute Speech Guide

The Power of Gratitude: A Quick 2-Minute Speech Guide

Welcome to my blog! Today, I want to talk about the power of gratitude and how it can positively impact our lives. Gratitude is a simple yet profound concept that has the potential to transform our mindset and well-being. In this blog post, I will provide you with a quick 2-minute speech guide on gratitude, so you can effectively communicate its importance to others.

Definition of Gratitude

Before we dive into the speech guide, let’s first define gratitude. Gratitude is the practice of acknowledging and appreciating the good things in our lives. It involves recognizing the positive aspects, experiences, and people that we are grateful for. In the realm of social emotional learning, gratitude plays a significant role in fostering emotional intelligence, empathy, and positive relationships.

Research has shown that practicing gratitude can have a profound impact on our mental well-being. It helps shift our focus from what is lacking in our lives to what we already have. By cultivating gratitude, we can experience greater happiness, contentment, and overall life satisfaction.

Benefits of Practicing Gratitude

Now that we understand the definition of gratitude, let’s explore the benefits of incorporating it into our daily lives.

Psychological Benefits of Gratitude

Practicing gratitude has been linked to numerous psychological benefits:

• Improved mood and happiness: Expressing gratitude can boost our mood and increase feelings of happiness. It helps us focus on the positive aspects of our lives, even during challenging times.
• Reduced stress and anxiety: Gratitude has a calming effect on our nervous system. It helps reduce stress and anxiety by shifting our attention away from negative thoughts and worries.
• Increased resilience and positive mindset: When we practice gratitude, we develop a more positive mindset and become better equipped to handle adversity. It helps us find silver linings and learn from difficult experiences.

Social Benefits of Gratitude

Gratitude not only benefits us individually but also has a positive impact on our relationships and communities:

• Strengthened relationships and connections: Expressing gratitude towards others strengthens our relationships and fosters a sense of connection. It helps us appreciate the people in our lives and encourages them to reciprocate.
• Enhanced empathy and compassion: Gratitude cultivates empathy and compassion towards others. It helps us recognize the efforts and kindness of others, leading to a more compassionate and understanding society.
• Fostering a positive and supportive community: When gratitude is practiced collectively, it creates a positive and supportive community. It encourages individuals to uplift and support one another, creating a ripple effect of kindness and gratitude.

How to Deliver a 2-Minute Speech on Gratitude

Now that we understand the benefits of gratitude, let’s explore how to deliver a powerful 2-minute speech on this topic:

• Start with a captivating opening statement or anecdote related to gratitude: Begin your speech with a compelling story or statement that grabs the audience’s attention and sets the tone for the rest of your speech.
• State the purpose of the speech: Clearly state the purpose of your speech – to emphasize the power of gratitude and its impact on our lives.
• Share a personal experience or observation: Connect with your audience by sharing a personal experience or observation that highlights the impact of gratitude. This will make your speech relatable and engaging.
• Discuss the benefits of practicing gratitude: Use concise and impactful language to explain the psychological and social benefits of gratitude. Highlight the key points we discussed earlier.
• Provide practical tips for cultivating gratitude: Offer a few practical tips that your audience can implement in their daily lives to cultivate gratitude. Keep it simple and actionable.
• Conclude with a call to action: Wrap up your speech by encouraging the audience to embrace gratitude and incorporate it into their daily lives. Leave them with a powerful call to action that inspires them to take the first step.

Tips for Effective Delivery

In addition to the content of your speech, here are some tips to enhance your delivery:

• Maintain eye contact with the audience: Engage with your audience by maintaining eye contact. This helps establish a connection and keeps their attention focused on you.
• Use appropriate body language and gestures: Use gestures and body language to enhance your speech. This adds visual interest and helps convey your message effectively.
• Speak clearly and confidently: Speak with clarity and confidence, using a conversational tone. This will make your speech more engaging and relatable.
• Use pauses effectively: Utilize pauses strategically to emphasize key points and allow the audience to absorb your message. This adds impact and helps maintain a steady pace.
• Practice beforehand: Practice your speech beforehand to ensure a smooth delivery within the time limit. This will boost your confidence and help you deliver your message effectively.

In conclusion, gratitude is a powerful practice that can transform our lives and the lives of those around us. By incorporating gratitude into our daily lives, we can experience improved mental well-being, stronger relationships, and a more positive and supportive community. Remember, a 2-minute speech on gratitude can make a lasting impact. So, start embracing gratitude today and witness the positive changes it brings.

Start your EverydaySpeech Free trial here and begin your journey towards social emotional learning and personal growth.

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5 Examples of 2 Minute Self Introduction Speech

Whether you’re at an interview, networking event, or sitting down with your family at the dinner table, there are times when you’ll need to give a short introduction of yourself and what you do.

Knowing how to write one of these short speeches can help boost your confidence and put you on equal footing with your audience from the very beginning of your speech.

This article will provide several examples of 2 minute self introduction speeches for you to analyze and learn from.

How to draft 2 Minute Self Introduction Speech Examples?

Before preparing for the speech, you must consider a few essential things.

1. Start with a greeting followed by your first and last name.

A simple and effective way to introduce yourself is by using a greeting and your first and last name.

For example, you can use the following format:

Hello, my name is [first name]. I am [last name] from [city]. I have been working in [industry] for [number of years]. I am passionate about [topic], so I love sharing what I know with others.

Now that you have drafted your introduction speech, it’s time to practice!

2. Mention your current situation, location, or surroundings.

Mention your current situation, location, or surroundings. This will help you connect with the audience, which may be listening to the speech for the first time.

Be specific about the company and product you work for.

Use an example from your own experience, if possible. For example, suppose you describe a new product your team has developed. In that case, you could talk about how it has helped improve customer satisfaction at your company.

If you have worked on an unsuccessful project, provide an example of why it did not succeed. This will show that you understand failure and can provide solutions to prevent similar problems in future projects.

3. State the purpose of your speech.

State the purpose of your speech. This is the essential part of your introduction. It should be short and to the point. The audience needs to know where you are going with this speech, so state your main subject and explain why you chose that subject by explaining what it means.

For example:

I will talk about “Self-acceptance” tonight because I have struggled with this in my life and want to help others who are going through the same thing.

4. Give a brief description of yourself.

You can start by telling us about yourself or even your interests, hobbies, and passions. It will help us get to know you better, and we will feel more comfortable around you. The best thing about this type of introduction is that you can tailor it according to the audience that you are facing.

If there are many people in the room, you can focus on one person and discuss them in detail. You can say something like, “My name is John Doe, I am from X country,” etc., and then go on with your story.

5. Conclude your speech with a call for action or request for feedback.

Conclude your speech with a call for action or request for feedback. To impact, you need to get the audience’s attention. You can do this by concluding your presentation with something that will motivate the audience and make them feel they have been given something valuable. The most effective way to do this is to finish with a request for feedback from the audience.

This technique aims to get people involved in the process of giving feedback and making decisions about their futures. You want them to feel as if they are being heard, so they will want to give you their thoughts on what you have said.

Takeaway:  Good introductions can make all the difference, and it’s easy to do them well.

• 3 Best Self Introduction Template to Introduce Yourself
• 10+ Self Introduction Speech Examples to Introduce Yourself

2 Minute Self Introduction Speech Examples

Hello, I am [name], and I’m here to talk about how we can make this world a better place. I am a recent graduate of [university] with a degree in [subject]. I want to help people like myself who are just starting in their careers and need some guidance. My goal is to provide individuals with the tools they need to succeed in their careers by connecting them with like-minded people who can provide them with the guidance they need.

I have been working for [company name] for over five years. I have worked my way up from interning at [company name] to being a full-time employee, where I currently work as an account manager. I love what we do here because it allows me to help others improve their lives by providing them access to products that help them live happier lives.

You can find me playing volleyball or sitting down for long hours watching movies on Netflix in my free time!

Hi, I’m [name], and I’m a writer. I write about things that make me happy, things that make me think, and things that make me laugh.

I create content for a wide range of digital platforms—including this website—to help people discover the things that improve their lives.

I’ve been writing for over ten years, and I’ve learned so much about what makes people tick. It’s helped me find my voice as a writer and has given me unique opportunities to collaborate with individuals who share my passion for storytelling.

One of my favorite ways to spend time is communicating with other people online through chat rooms or social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter. The connection between us is instant, and it feels like we are having a conversation even when we aren’t speaking directly to each other. It feels intimate somehow—like we’re sharing secrets or sharing our deepest thoughts with someone else who cares enough about us to listen closely enough.

Good morning mam/sir. It’s my pleasure to introduce myself. Well, I’m Rehana born and raised in Anantapur. I have done my schooling in Little flower Montessori English Medium High School with 77%, then I did my plus 12 from S.S.B.N junior college with 77.7% and now I’m pursuing my final year B.tech from Anantha Lakshmi Institute of Technology and Sciences Anantapur with an aggregate of 78.33% My strengths are my attitude that I like to take on challenges that I CAN do, and my way of thinking that I take both success and failure in a balanced manner. I don’t like to say weakness but I like to say scope for improvement that is I won’t leave any ask in completely, I believe in myself and my hard work and I want perfection in everything. My short-term goal is I want such a platform where I can grow my career along with the organization’s growth like yours. My Long term goal is I want to be one of the reasons for the success of the organization and I want to see your organization as a benchmark to other organizations. My ethic is “I never neglect an opportunity for my improvement”. That’s all about me sir….thank you for giving me such a wonderful opportunity.

“Good day. My name is Ellen Davis.

I am 20 years old. I took some time off after high school to figure out what job path I wanted to take, as I was indecisive at the time. I’ve had a few jobs over the year and have given references from a couple of them.

I’ve decided that I want to work with animals and have applied to ______ College to study to become a veterinary nurse. In the meanwhile, I’d like to get started studying the practical side of the job, which is why I was thrilled to see you had an opening for a veterinary assistant.

I realize it will be difficult job, and I don’t have much experience in this industry, but you won’t be disappointed if you take a risk on me.

The Verdict: 2 Minute Self Introduction Speech Examples

As you can see, writing a self introduction speech can be very simple and quick. Just take your time to prepare, write, and then practice until you feel confident enough.

Hi, I a Usmaan Ali, a content writer. I’ve always been passionate about writing and blogging. I hope you enjoy my blog posts as much as I enjoy writing it!

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2-Minute Presentation: How to Prepare a Two Minute Speech on Time

Last updated on April 13th, 2024

You might be in a hurry to deliver a two minute presentation or speech, or you might want to prepare a short speech to give as closing remarks at an event. Whatever the case might be, there are several ways by which you can prepare a two-minute speech on time.

1. Write Down Notes or the Full Text on Your Speech

Some people like to use some notes scribbled on a paper to remember the key aspects of the speech, whereas others like to memorize a speech or read it from a paper or teleprompter. Then there are some people who are simply good at delivering a speech without the need of notes or written text. Whichever type of presenter you may be, you would want to know how much time it takes for you to complete your speech. This is why you can write down your notes or the complete text of the speech and read it out to estimate the time.

2. Use a Timer to Calculate the Time

To estimate the time, you can use a timer. If you’re using PowerPoint slides, you can use a number of add-ins and built-in features to time your slides. Here is a list of PowerPoint timers that you can use for this purpose. Knowing how much time it takes you to deliver your speech will help you ensure that you don’t exceed the allocated time, as well as better outline the content that would be most suitable for your audience.

3. Estimate your Words per Minute using a Words to Minutes Tool

You might want to estimate the WPM (Words Per Minute) for your speech and presentation. Some people like to speak slowly to be clear, whereas others might find it more appropriate to be a little quick in delivering their speech. You can estimate the WPM to understand your ability to deliver a speech in terms of the number of words you use each minute. There is also a free handy free tools that helps you convert speech to minutes online . Using this WPM calculator you can estimate things such as how many words is a 3 minute speech, how long to read a speech might it take you or how many words to pages are you using. This can make your time well spent, then you can use a speech calculator or words to minute tool to calculate the number of words per minute.

Alternatively, you can use our article series in which we present an estimate of how many slides to include for a specific presentation length, for example how many slides for a 30 minute presentation in PowerPoint.

4. Add or Remove Content

If your speech is too long or too short, you can add or remove content, as well as use shorter versions of certain explanations to ensure you don’t exceed the time allocated for your speech. For example, in case you wish to give an example of determination and perseverance, you can mention a famous personality that the audience can relate to rather than using a lengthy explanation as to how the aforementioned can lead to success. Similarly, using abbreviations that the audience is acquainted with can help reduce your WPM and help you explain more details in a short period of time.

5. Practice Your Expressions & Body Language

Once you have your speech ready and you have estimated the time it takes to deliver it, you should refine the way you speak to leave a lasting impression on your audience. You can also use a mirror and try to relax and smile to deliver your speech. Practicing with your body language and expressions will help you make your speech more powerful. However, you don’t always need to smile, as some parts of your speech might require showing resolve, whereas other bits might require a more gentle approach. You can practice your expressions to find the right mix.

The above mentioned tips should help you prepare your speech on time, be it a two minute speech or something much longer. If you have a good tip that our readers can benefit from, share your experience with us by leaving a comment.

You should practice your 3-minute speech as much as possible, until you feel confident enough with the delivery of your presentation. You can try practicing 3 times per day over a course of a week. You can also spread the practice along the day, in the morning, in the afternoon and one more time before end of day.

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Overthinking It

40 Inspirational Speeches in 2 Minutes

Warning: do not watch this rousing montage if you have a heart condition..

So way back in April, I first had the idea of editing together inspirational speeches. Since then, the Dow has dropped 3,000 points and one million jobs have been lost. The people of the United States are now a ragtag bunch of scruffy underdogs, down by three touchdowns at halftime, with a whole horde of orcs waiting for us right outside those locker room doors. Inspiration has become something we need . (By the way, you couldn’t tell because it started the sentence, but “Inspiration” was capitalized.)

What I’m trying to say is, I may have just single-handedly saved the economy with this montage:

[optin-monster-shortcode id=”ll7hbqdkyb3reqr1ue6g”]

TRANSCRIPT:

Shame on you. This could be the greatest night of our lives, but you’re going to let it be the worst. And I guarantee a week won’t go by in your life you won’t regret walking out, letting them get the best of you. Well, I’m not going home. We’ve come too far! And I’m going to stay right here and fight for this lost cause. A day may come when the courage of men fails… but it is not THIS day. The line must be drawn HERE. This far, no further! I’m not saying it’s going to be easy. You’re going to work harder than you ever worked before. But that’s fine, we’ll just get tougher with it! If a person grits his teeth and shows real determination, failure is not an option. That’s how winning is done! Believe me when I say we can break this army here, and win just one for the Gipper. But I say to you what every warrior has known since the beginning of time: you’ve got to get mad. I mean plum mad dog mean. If you would be free men, then you must fight to fulfill that promise! Let us cut out their living guts one inch at a time, and they will know what we can do! Let no man forget how menacing we are. We are lions! You’re like a big bear, man! This is YOUR time! Seize the day, never surrender, victory or death… that’s the Chicago Way! Who’s with me? Clap! Clap! Don’t let Tink die! Clap! Alright! Let’s fly! And gentlemen in England now abed shall know my name is the Lord when I tell our enemies that they may take our lives, but they’ll never take our Independence Day!

Some behind-the-scenes notes for editing nerds only.

• Obviously, there was some fudging to get it all in one aspect ratio. Some clips were 4:3, so I had to blow them up to fill a 16:9 frame. Other clips were 2.35:1, and I had to blow those up too. You don’t really notice, because you’re watching the finished product in a little box.
• The music sort of picked itself. A problem I always run into doing these videos is that you can’t just push a button and make a movie’s soundtrack magically disappear. I actually discarded certain clips because they had loud music I couldn’t cover up ( Starship Troopers : “Everyone fights, no one quits.”) But there were two clips I felt like I needed that had really loud music – Animal House and Henry V . So I got those mp3s, synced them up with those two clips, and then dragged the audio out to underscore the entire piece.
• For a while, I was going to end it with Henry V to ID4 , like this: “… and hold their manhoods cheap, while any speaks who fought with us upon OUR INDEPENDENCE DAY!” But I like going back to Braveheart , because it’s sort of a subtle, subconscious fakeout. The video began with the Braveheart speech, and when William Wallace pops back up, you think it’s going to end there. You don’t expect that last cut to Bill Pullman.
• I’m grateful to Mr. Stokes, who suggested that I use longer clips at the beginning. At the time I had even more movies packed in there, with more cuts. But Jordan is usually right, and it definitely works better with more of a build.
• My favorite cut: Chaplin as a Hitler-esque dictator, to George C. Scott as Patton. Not an accident.
• The clips at the end aren’t exactly in random order. It’s seven shots of characters with arms raised in triumph: the boy from Neverending Story , Rudy, Andy Dufresne, the Grinch, Ferris Bueller, Lincoln, and Rocky.
• My favorite speech? Animal House , actually. Maybe it’s the positive associations we all have with that movie, or the positive associations we all have with Belushi. But by jingo, it works.

If you liked this video–in particular, the rousing, patriotic finale–we suggest you take a deep dive into  Independence Day with our full length feature commentary track that explores the political and sociological themes of this American masterpiece. Download The Overview: Independence Day and find out why a stripper, a cable repair man, and an alcoholic represent the best of post-Cold War, pre-9/11 America.

143 Comments on “40 Inspirational Speeches in 2 Minutes”

Great video.

I have a list of what i think are the movies you used. Still missing a few.

Can you fill them in?

http://paulnich.blogspot.com/2008/12/most-inspirational-movie-ever.html

I love the “peace with/by inches” speech from _Any Given Sunday_, which of course you included in this excellent piece.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rFx6OFooCs

I used to keep an mp3 of that speech on my desktop in college, and when I hit the wall late nights writing a paper or working on a project and couldn’t go any further, I’d play it and recharge.

I remember I played it for the YPMB scriptwriting committee once, I think before we wrote our Harvard script. It seemed to have a pretty powerful effect on everybody.

I haven’t been the annoying feminist in a long while, so here it is: Isn’t it sad that there are only 2.5 women in that video? (The .5 is for Peter Pan.)

What, we’re not allowed to be epic and inspirational? We’re not important enough to make the big, final speeches to rouse up the team or the country or the Ancient Roman armies? Where’s the video for us? Because, I’ll tell you, where would the movie Troy be without Helen? Where would Rocky be without Adrian? Where would Bastian be without that weird princess girl? Where would William Wallace be without that dead wife of his? Where would the president of Independence Day be without that dead wife of HIS?

No. We’re going to fight! We’re gonna live on! Today, my friends, is our Women’s History Month!

I need a name for something. It’s that line that marks where irony and earnestness sort of collide. I can’t be sure how much you intended the earnest side of it, but speaking as someone who has loved and been moved by many of these, I can’t experience it just as irony, and it’s much too smart (Oh my God, Superman with the flag) to experience just as earnest (yes, stating the obvious, sorry). I’m fairly certain that is what you were going for. Good freaking job. For the record, the way I’d refer to that line right now, lacking a name, would be “that space OverthinkingIt occupies most of the time.”

First little gasp/laugh of delight: appearance of Newsies. Another favorite moment: Jimmy Stewart to Return of the King. To Patrick Stewart. Stewart sandwich! (That’s not why, just funny). Keira Knightley, moment I never would’ve remembered, totally working. Maybe that was more inspirational than I realized?

(rewatching)

Jesus, this thing is like bottled happiness. And I don’t even want to keep watching it because I hate knowing climactic scenes from movies I haven’t seen (of which there are a few in here). But I can’t stop! So… thanks?

Letting the sentiment go for a second, it never until now occurred to me how heavily the gender balance of these things is skewed (It’s just Keira and Peter Pan on the other side, right? Heh. Half the female representation is Peter Pan). It’s not surprising, I guess–these speeches are generally given by people at the confluence of leader, authority figure and older, experienced one, all of which are categories we’ve usually associated with men. And there is of course the whole “Henry V was a dude, of course it’s a dude” angle. But, you know, interesting.

So, if anyone else cares, how are inspirational speeches gendered, and why? When I think back to “Strong Female Characters,” there have to be some great ass-kicking lines from, say, Aliens and Terminator 2, but in those cases the women were defending very specific things. Is it easier, culturally, to let women stand up for themselves or specific others like their own children, before we let them crusade for ideas like Jimmy Stewart or lead groups of people like Braveheart? Is there a speech in, say, Norma Rae that totally belongs here?

That’s quite enough for a comment, so I’m going to stop myself. Much food for thought, and very good job!

Mlawski says it better, as I would expect. And doesn’t forget Kirsten Dunst.

@mlawski Good point. Obviously the fact that most of these movies are sports and historically set war/battle movies means mostly men. Valid point though.

I mostly just wanted to make an inspirational speech :)

@Siwi: I love that you said that OTI is where irony and earnestness collide. That is SO AWESOME!*

*Was that irony or earnestness? I’ll never tell.

I’m not sure you even know yourself, I think that’s the secret. The AWESOME secret.

It’s even in sing-along format in the clip I found:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUhwA-C-ACg

This one is one of my favorite political drama ones:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44R5BapEdYY

This one, too:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qw5wetGMCrA

But that makes me realize something along the lines of the already-discussed gender disparity. In the two speeches by men I thought of, the man giving the speech was, in some way, defending a woman. Both women are what I would argue “strong female characters,” yet still are under fire in their movies because of “scandal” and such. Sigh.

Nice job Matt! That is pretty outstanding.

I love that you threw Swingers in there. “You’re a bad man.”

Well done Mr Belinke. Perhaps this falls into one of those ‘on shoulders of giants’ categories.

One big reason Hollywood inspirational speeches are gendered is that they appear primarily in sports movies, war movies, science fiction movies and fantasy movies, which overwhelmingly feature male actors and are overwhelmingly for male audiences.

I guess you could have an inspirational montage of everyone’s wives dying or getting kidnapped (Helen of Troy, Independence Day, etc.), but I suspect it would have the opposite effect of what you’d like. You might be better off making a montage of Stephen Seagal, Jean-Claude Van Damme and Brian Bosworth just saying “NOOOOO!!!!” over and over again.

Yes, they could do a lot more movies about women’s sports – so I guess _Stick It_ is the bold vanguard you’re looking for. They could even get ahead of reality a bit and make more than 45% of the coaches in those movies women.

But yeah, you’re going to have problems finding female field generals to give big inspirational speeches in historical epics.

And sure, you could make _The Mists of Avalon_ over and over and over again, but I suspect it would get tiresome.

Mainly – it’s not that Matt didn’t pick those scenes from those movies, it’s that those scenes disproportionately don’t exist or aren’t interesting, either because of the requirements of the genre, the precedent on which they are based, the audience they are looking for, or that fighting against type just for feministic reasons can be pretty counterproductive, since these speeches are all about “TYPE, TYPE, TYPE.”

Only a few movies and shows have really done this well, and certainly not enough to make a quality montage. This is a fight worth waging going forward, but it is not worth diminishing the brilliant work of Bill Pullman or Charles S. Dutton, who have done nothing wrong (except perhaps _Mr. Wrong_).

If you want big inspirational speeches from women who are in the shit, I’d recommend getting as excited as I am about the new season of _Battlestar Galactica_.

my favorites are henry v, network, and rudy. can you give a list of all the films i would like to see some of them.

_Babylon 5_ has some good speeches by women, too, if we’re talking series, now. I can’t find it, but Delen gives a great speech about the awesomeness of humans in the first season. Here’s a clip of the President of the Earth that is a little depressing, but still rings with the ones ^up there^. (It’s sort of a spoiler, too, just in case anyone cares…)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbBRrK9Q-rw

Susan Ivanovna from B5 is one of the most kickass spaceship flying type people in any media ever.

My favorite speech from her starts about 45 seconds into this clip, although she has others that are of a more inspirational bent:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXyDi_91UXw&feature=related

@Fenzel: The funny thing about that clip is the one guy working in the background who seems to be completely ignoring her awesome speech but once or twice looks over his shoulder. So it’s not that he doesn’t hear her; it’s that he heard her, shrugged it off, and went back to work. “‘God sent me’? That’s interesting. Oh, well. Back to pushing buttons. Push the button. Push the button. Look over my shoulder again. Push the button.”

@Shana: Yeah, that’s sort of how the financial crisis happened ;-)

“and are overwhelmingly for male audiences.”

I’m going to pick on this bit, not because I disagree that they are thought of and marketed that way, but because I wish there were a better way to refer to this–there’s not some even split between movies for guys and movies for girls. What I mean is, I think the proportion of girls who see movies like Mighty Ducks versus the proportion of boys who see movies like, say, Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants is very different. The reason, I think, that the focus has tended to be on “guy’s” genres like sports, war, sci-fi and fantasy is that, for those successful among them, it’s really not just guys going. Had the audience for Lord of the Rings been as gendered in either direction as Sex and the City, it could never have been the hit it was.

The upshot seems to be that girls see guy movies, more than guys see girl movies. This means guy movies are more profitable and tend to dominate the marketplace, because they’re playing to more quadrants or whatever. This also means that I’m not sure we should still be thinking of them as guy movies. I think it plays to a false divide and perhaps limits them from being as good as they can be, as movies. (And I’d say excellent examples are given by series you bring up like BSG… as far as I know, no guys refuse to watch the show because it has kickass women or women in positions of leadership, so why should it follow that putting them there is in opposition to the genre or audience? I’m not saying the traditional association was groundless, just… perhaps unnecessary).

Attempting to be brief: I never had any intention of slamming the montage for this. I just saw it as a jumping off point and excellent gathering of evidence to overthink inspirational speeches in movies and gender. I would never mean that to read as a condemnation of Belinkie, Bill Pullman, or anybody, except the faceless “institutions” that are of course at fault for everything. I only starting looking for suggestions of female speeches because that would tend to weaken my argument that they are disproportionately not there.

Heh. Button-pushing man.

Love the piece. If you ever do one again, throw in something from the speech in Boondock Saints, the speech they give when they kill someone.

@Siwi – Thanks so much for your comment. There are definitely times when you’re tediously ripping DVDs and you think, “Why exactly is this worth it?” But then you read a comment like that, and you remember, “Oh yeah, I heart making cool things and sharing them with thousands of like-minded strangers.” So thanks.

I also think you touch on something very true, about the intersection between irony and earnestness. I once performed a rousing rendition of “Proud to Be an American” in a karaoke bar. After it was done, a guy asked me if the performance had been sincere or ironic, and I sort of shrugged at him. The song is very cheesy, but it’s also kind of awesome. It really does hit this sort of weird sweet spot where I enjoy it simultaneously on two levels.

So Siwi, let me suggest the word “earony,” to mean something which is enjoyed partially earnestly, partially ironically. Let me try and use it. “The South Park movie is an earonic take on musicals.” That is, the movie both mocks musicals and celebrates them.

The disproportionate gender balance is an interesting issue. But I think if you look at how many of these speeches come either from coaches or generals, and then think about how many women have had those jobs historically, it’s not surprising.

Gab – not sure I’d hold Sister Suffragette up as pro-woman. The mom in Mary Poppins pretty much just exists to give feminists a bad name.

The Babylon 5 speech is indeed cool. But for this montage, I had a loose rule to use only movies, no TV shows (I cheated a little with Charlie Brown and Peter Pan). Otherwise, there definitely would have been Buffy in there.

So people, what are the great inspirational movie quotes by women? IS there anything from T2 or Aliens? I actually watched G.I. Jane recently, and didn’t see anything that jumped out at me as an uplifting speech.

cool vid….what’s the music playing in the background? (could only identify the music from ID4 in the end)

Good stuff starts a bit more than a minute in —

**STEEL MAGNOLIAS SPOILERS**

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-Ai4SUrj8w

is there anyway to download a copy of the movie?

Trey Parker and Matt Stone are the masters of “earony.” See also _Team America: World Police_ for another outstanding example of such.

what is the music during the clip? the high strings part. what score is that?

The music is from Branagh’s “Henry V,” composed by Patrick Doyle. The soundtrack is full of stirring, inspirational stuff like that.

Fenzel: Ivonovah is probably my favorite character in the series.

Belinkie: I think “Sister Suffrogate” is pro-woman in a comical way. I find it refreshing. “[a]s a group/ They’re rather stupid.” Kills me. And really, the lyrics are pretty tongue-in-cheek. The crazy feminists like her in the suffrage movements both in Europe and here helped drive the men in power holding back their right to vote over the edge. THIS “daughters’ daughter” surely “adores” them for it. Thus, and in answer to your last question, check out _Iron Jawed Angels_ about Alice Paul and the women involved in the American movement for women’s suffrage under Wilson, the wave of feminism that finally got us the vote. No, it’s not an action flick, but it’s a great movie, imo.

Another strong Joan Allen performance, her portrayal of Goodie Proctor in _The Crucible_. I haven’t seen it in a while, but I do remember her having a number of really big/heavy scenes. Hm, and she was also in _Mists of Avalon_ too… Now that I think about it/ IMDB her, she seems to play awesome women fairly frequently. I mean, c’mon, I haven’t seen _Death Race_ yet, but I’m sure she’s scary-cool in it. Patty Nixon, Betty Parker, Pamela Landy… Maybe a Joan Allen montage of some sort would be fun, if I was able. Alas, I’m clueless as to how to make a YouTube video.

I heart Joan Allen.

I’ll admit it, this made me cry.

The ending speech of “The American President”

And I’ll second anything from Babylon 5.

Spectacular! The only improvement I have found would be to let the music complete or fade more gracefully at the end. Right now, it’s rather abrupt.

Powerful – but just too short! These are awesome clips that because most are familiar leave me wanting about 20 seconds more of each one! It is interesting how some of these story lines become a part of our lives. I’ve used Mel Gibson in Braveheart as a metaphor at least twice this week.

Nice compilation job. I liked how you built the story line clip by clip. Your efforts are appreciated! And your site name gives me a good smile as well!

Linked from Lifehacker. I agree-it’s a great way to end the week.

FWIW, you could also put Natalie Portman with her arms up in the rain in V for Vendetta.

Hey that is cool. what program do you use to edit that? i need a editing program close to that. free or for a coupe of bucks,lol. any help here,thanks.

Brilliant. Just, brilliant.

Ok, here’s an inspirational line from a woman:

“Imagine, in the midst of all this slaughter, to die in a way that means something.”

aww, sweet this is just what we need in Digital Movie Processing in college. We’re in Post Production of an ad we’re working on, and we’ve got until Wednesday to get it finished [we’ve only just moved into Post Production – and we’ve 15-30 mins of footage, where most is definitely goin to be thrown out]. We needed inspiration. And we get it in spades. You sir, are a legend :)

That’s amazing, but no Frank Slade is borderline unforgivable. If I was half the commenter I was six years ago, I’d take a FLAAAMEthrower to this place.

@BothTeamsPlayedHard – Yeah, I thought about Scent of a Woman. But one of the rules I was trying to stick to is no actor appears more than once. And there was really no place for the flamethrower line.

But of course, this is one of these projects where there’s no right or wrong answers – I’m sure if I’d started on a different day, everything would have come together differently, with different clips.

Even though I had no idea what they were talking about, that was the most inspirational thing I’ve ever seen. Also, points for using Street Fighter.

I would like to see a list of the movies these clips are from. I recognize plenty of then (braveheart, newsies ;), etc.) but some I didn’t recognize and would like to see.

Amazing job! I’d love tho share this with my Brazilian friends!

I made Portuguese subtitles for the video, but I can’t put them on Youtube because I’m not the author. They’re in the srt format; to upload them choose Captions and Subtitles on the Youtube video page.

http://www.brabo.ppg.br/files/not-an-option.srt

Cheers from Brazil

thanks… posted this to my facebook page… people like it.

I have another line: “Dodge this.”

I really love the speech in Newsies! It’s my favourite child movie, I think i’ve seen it for at least 30 times.

clever. really unique, but i feel you are missing one crucial cinematic staple in american culture… you left out star wars….. some dorks might be offended that star trek and LOTRs got in there…. give luke some love bud

and everyone commenting on the whole feminist argument really knows how to ruin a funny thing. way to be a downer and spoil a good time.

someone who actually knows how to enjoy life

What’s the freakish looking guy in a Superman shirt on a pirate ship? I don’t remember a scene like that in The Elephant Man…

@phil: I guess it’s a perspective thing. I think Overthinking Things ™ makes them more fun, but I can see how others would think it sucks the fun out. You say potato, I say potato.

@phil: Can you see the problem in complaining that people who analyze things are being “downers” in the comments of a blog called *Overthinking It*? Can you?

Internet high five, Clara. No, make that ten.

@Mike G, the guy in the Superman shirt is Sloth Fratelli from “The Goonies”, love that movie.

@Matthew you did an outstanding job, as soon as I saw the title of the video I knew I’d see Henry V, you can’t get a more inspirational speech than that. Thanks for sharing.

thank you so much for this! its 4 am and finals, and some inspiration was SO necessary. im sure there are 100 other clips that could have been inspirational and im not going to sit here and argue for them, but i just reallyyyy need to thank you for this extra push…

now back to studying, or as i like to say “second star to the right, and straight on till morning!”

B-I-T-C-H-I-N !!!

How about the ‘life is like a mop’ speech in UHF by Stanley Spudowski (Michael Richards)…”I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it any more.”

Great stuff u got there guys!! it surely overthinking of it cos i never thought bout this would be exsisted. haha honestly I’m touched by this clip. it sure lots hardwork and dedication to made this clip. really appreatiate it. my fav speech is the braveheart scenes. I still love to watch it till todays. Thanks again for the Inspirational Speeches.

I heart Jimmy Stewart and Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. I can’t watch that movie without crying.

For fun I subtitle vids for the Deaf and Hard of hearing. Can I use the transcript to subtitle your vid? Would like to give it a try please.

Thanks, Subtitleman

Give it a shot, Subtitleman!

YOU FORGOT THE BEST ONE; FAR SUPERIOR TO ALL YOU MENTIONED: THINK “GLADIATOR” DUMB ASS

Oh Rick you charmer, I didn’t forget anything. I took a look at the ol’ “what we do in life” speech, but it’s got this driving music behind it. Like “BUH dadadadad BUH dadadada BUH.” So I had to leave it out.

And leave my ass out of this.

That was great. Should have been way longer and it needed the Paul Newman Slpashot speech as as well as a speech from Mick in Rocky.

Very well done. I do wish that Warriors would have gotten in there.

Can you dig it? Caaaaaaaaaannnnnnnnnn yooooooooouuuuuuuuuu diiiiiiiiiiggggggggggg iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiitttttttt?

This is way cool and so freaking creative!!! Thank you so much for sharing this with everyone. I do believe your inspirational objective was achieved. Awesome Job!!! Happy Holidays to everyone.

Matthew- this is unbelievable. I don’t know if appreciation levels ever jump the shark for you to where “if you’ve seen one anonymous internet stranger thanking you and appreciating your work, then you’ve seen them all”, but count me in as one more to top the pile.

Thanks again and thanks for the first free sample of my newest addiction to OTI.

I think the reason this works so effectively, and why such speeches in movies work in general, is because they ARE so silly; so bombastic. From a fundamental standpoint, self-aggrandizing bombast tends to come from one of two places: either a feeling of inherent superiority or from a desire to become bigger than one’s self. The kind of movies whose speeches are collected in this 135 seconds of joy here celebrate the latter while condemning the former, in some plot related way.

Aragorn could’ve done what Sarumon did and conceded to Sauron, but he didn’t. He stood and fought, even when hopelessly outnumbered, and never gave up.

The boys from Old School could’ve just given up on their fraternity, but they didn’t. They worked hard and fought against the evil Jeremy Piven, and didn’t give up. And so on.

We all know it’s silly, but at the same time it moves us, because it strikes at a central chord of what makes us human: If we didn’t believe that we could dig down deep and make it through, regardless of odds, how the hell could we get out of bed in the morning?

And I think that, more than any innate sexism in society is why a girls will see “guy” movies, but not the other way around. When the women buy shoes in Sex and The City, it’s pretty much just women buying shoes. At best, you could argue it’s a metaphor for consumerism, but even then it’s just buying something as a metaphor for buying things in general. From a basic standpoint, women buying shoes is something that is really only interesting to women.

Conversely, when Rocky goes the distance with Apollo in Rocky, it’s boxing as a metaphor for damn near anything you want it to be. Everyone, man or woman, can relate to needing redemption, to being an underdog, to wanting just one more shot, etc.

I must admit, also, I’d been searching for a way to communicate what I’d described as “Loving something for it’s strengths, while knowing of it’s faults and loving those too” while trying to describe the appeal of Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ On a Prayer”, which I feel like is the musical equivalent of one of these speeches. I think earony is absolutely a perfect term for it. So thanks for that as well.

Baha. As a Robert Sean Leonard fangirl, I watched the entire thing just to see if Mr. Keating’s speech from Dead Poet’s Society was in there. Also, I’d like to point out that DPS and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off were the only movies in there that I recognized and have seen. I feel pathetic.

@Ben – Living on a Prayer definitely invokes strong earony. Great example!

This was just…AWESOME…I can’t quit watching it…nuff said.

What was the whole Charlie Brown speech?

“So people, what are the great inspirational movie quotes by women?”

The only real ‘on the verge of battle’ inspirational speech by a woman I can think of is Elizabeth I: The Golden Age (or Elizabeth I, HBO series) both scenes from Tilbury.

From the movie with Cate Blachete: “My loving people. We see the sails of the enemy approaching. We hear the Spanish guns over the water. Soon now, we will meet them face-to-face. I am resolved, in the midst and heat of the battle, to live or die amongst you all. While we stand together no invader shall pass. Let them come with the armies of Hell; they will not pass! And when this day of battle is ended, we meet again in heaven or on the field of victory.”

@Janadr13 – That DOES seem like a good speech. Is the movie good? It’s got Clive Owen, who is awesome.

it reminded me of my childhood(:

Whats the name of that song that plays through the whole thing? I need it.

GREAT VIDEO, Belinks! I love it.

Hey Paul or any of you , do you know where to find the full speeches in Audio or on clips? thanks Kevin

Way cool! You should have ended it with “Caaaaaaaan youuuuu dig iiiiiiiiiit!”

Thanks so much for making this video montage (sp?)! I’ve added it to my blog (philipandfamily.blogpsot.com) after finding it on msn.com. It motivated me to “seize the day” or actually this whole new year! Wanted my friends and family to be movitated too. Kim

What an awesome compilation! At first I sort of smirked at the over-the-top cheesiness of the Big Speeches, but by the end, I was truly moved. I think that’s my own personal definition of ‘earony’ in this case – to start out feeling cynical about and almost scoffing at the “We Can Do It!” theme, but then falling under the spell of that very theme and feeling my heart swell and my eyes mist.

I was especially tickled to see the clips from The Goonies and The Neverending Story, partly b/c you wouldn’t necessarily expect to see them in a montage like this. Matt Belinkie, you rock!

It also gives you a warm feeling about the movies, and how much uplift we can get from them when they’re at their best. Even the lesser movies represented here are exciting to see. This should be an Oscar show clip montage.

Great video. Does anyone know the piece of music in the background??? HELP!!!!!

you should get that thing on i tunes

Is this video download-able? I would love to use this in my video class.

my guesses for the clips:

braveheart/muppets take manhattan/animal house/rudy/ dunno /dunno / dunno / lord of the rings: return of the king/startrek next generation/dunno/stand and deliver/newsies/your a good sport charlie brown/apallo 13/ rocky / kingdom of heaven/nute rockney all american/alexander/dunno/hang em high or high plains drifter/ robin hood prince of thieves/ lil dictator/patton/any given sunday/pirates : at world’s end/300/troy/dunno/miracle/dead poets society/galaxy quest/star wars/ the untouchables/dunno/peter pan/hoosiers/mighty ducks/henry v/pulp fiction/ braveheart again/independance day/free willie/angels in the outfield/cool runnings/dead poets society/animal house/spartacus/goonies/never ending story/rudy/shawshank redemption/grinch christmas/ferris bueller/bill and teds excellent adventure/rocky

how’d i do?

P.S. I really liked what you put together.. well done

is there a way to download to a windows machine, 40 inspirational sppeches? my wife wants to use it for a presentation.

jonathan katz

Hi Matthew,

This is perfect! You did an exceptional job and the overall message is great. Is there anyway of downloading for use in a office presentation/pep talk. Appropriate credit would be given to you, Overthinkingit.com and the films included. I would really appreciate any feedback you could provide.

Thank you! Judy

Wow, as soon as the footage for Free Willy and the Goonies came up on there I laughed out loud for nearly 2 minutes straight! Great Job!

Is there a list of the movies used and where the background music is from? Thank you

To Matt, I really, really loved this. Just wanted to say thank you! Mark G.

i hate your site

Yeah, I know I’m a little late to the party, but I had to throw this out there. I was hoping to see a clip from “The Warriors” of Cyrus shouting, “CAAAAN YOOOUUUU DIIIIGGGG IIIITT!!!!” near the end.

Hi, I want to use in my prensentation. I need to download it. Please help!!! How can I download?

I would love a list of the movies as well and the name of the soundtrack pieces. Great compilation.

EPIC but whats that weird flying dog thing betweem superman and the football player? and you are amazing the movie get a 100/10 for the most EPIC scenes fomr any movie ever! MAKE MORE it;s great

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Mahavishnu arrested two days after casteist, pseudoscientific claims at Chennai schools

Motivational speaker Mahavishnu, who drew widespread criticism for his speech at a school blaming “past life sins” for poverty and verbally abusing a teacher with disabilities, has been arrested by the Chennai police. He was arrested at the airport upon his landing from Australia on Saturday, September 7 and was produced before the court which remanded him to judicial custody.  

According to reports, Mahavishnu has been booked under sections 192 [provocation with intent to cause riots], 196 (1) (a) [promoting enmity], 352 [insult], and 353 (2) [spreading false information] of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 92 of the Disabilities Act, 2016.

Mahavishnu, who runs the organisation Paramporul Foundation, had delivered a speech to the students of The Saidapet High School and Ashok Nagar Girls' High School in Chennai on September 5 to commemorate Teachers Day. He had claimed that people are born poor or with disorders because of "what they did in their past lives" and that "you have been given things in this life based on what you did in your past lives." Mahavishnu also went on to blame the British for allegedly "destroying" the Gurukulam system, a system that essentially permitted education on the basis of caste and gender.

Mahavishnu also claimed that there had been shlokas that could cause a rain of fire, cure ailments and even enable a person to fly. “All these were written as scriptures by our ancestors but the British erased them,” he said at his speech. 

When a teacher with disabilities, Shankar, protested against Mahvishnu’s unscientific and regressive claims, the speaker resorted to verbally abusing and humiliating him. 

After clips of Mahavishnu’s speech went viral, netizens, activists and politicians alike were furious at his statements and at his behaviour with the teacher. Many have slammed the Tamil Nadu government for allowing such an incident to take place in government schools and questioned the DMK’s secularist stance. 

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James Earl Jones, iconic voice of Darth Vader and Mufasa in ‘The Lion King,’ dies at 93

You can’t think of James Earl Jones without hearing his voice.

That booming basso profundo, conveying instant dignity or menace, was Jones’ signature instrument. It brought power to all his stage and movie roles, most indelibly as Darth Vader in “Star Wars,” Mufasa in “The Lion King and as the voice of CNN.

That remarkable voice is just one of many things the world will miss about the beloved actor, who died Monday, according to his agent. He was 93.

Jones had a distinguished career that spanned some 60 years and took him from a small-town theater in northern Michigan to the highest reaches of Hollywood, where he appeared in dozens of movies and TV series. (He also lent his voice to CNN’s tagline, “This is CNN,” complete with a dramatic pause after “This …”)

Voicing Darth Vader

In the mid-1970s “Star Wars” creator George Lucas cast towering British actor David Prowse as the guy inside Darth Vader’s black suit, but decided he wanted someone else to voice the character.

“George thought he wanted a – pardon the expression – darker voice,” Jones once told the American Film Institute . “I lucked out.”

Back then nobody imagined “Star Wars” would become a blockbuster, let alone an enduring franchise and cultural phenomenon. Jones recorded all his lines in a few hours and was not listed in the film’s credits. He said he was paid just $7,000 for the movie, “and I thought that was good money.”

The actor and Lucas had disagreements about how he should voice the villainous Vader.

“I wanted to make Darth Vader more interesting, more subtle, more psychologically oriented,” Jones said . “He (Lucas) said, ‘No, no … you’ve got to keep his voice on a very narrow band of inflection, ‘cause he ain’t human.”

Darth Vader’s climactic duel with Luke Skywalker in 1980’s “The Empire Strikes Back” became a dramatic high point in the “Star Wars” series – punctuated by Jones’ delivery of one of the most famous lines in movie history: “ No, I am your father! ”

Jones said that almost two decades later, when he was voicing the dignified Mufasa for Disney’s animated “The Lion King,” it took him a while to strike the right tone.

“My first mistake was to try and make him regal,” Jones said of the 1994 film.  “And what they really needed was something more like me. “They said, ‘What are you like as a father?’ and I said, ‘Well, I’m really a dopey dad.’

“And so they began to impose my facial expressions onto Mufasa, and a different tone of voice. Yeah, he was authoritative, but he was just a gentle dad.”

A prolific career

Jones was born in 1931 in Mississippi. His father, Robert Earl Jones, left the family before James was born to become an actor in New York and Hollywood, working with playwright Langston Hughes and eventually earning supporting roles in hit movies including “The Sting.”

Jones’ family moved from Mississippi to Michigan when he was 5, a traumatic upheaval that caused him to develop a stutter. His fear of speaking rendered him almost mute until he got to high school, where a poetry teacher helped him overcome his disability by encouraging him to read his poems aloud.

“He began to challenge me, to nudge me toward speaking again … toward acknowledging and appreciating the beauty of words,” Jones said .

Jones studied drama at the University of Michigan, served as an Army Ranger and then moved to New York, where he soon landed lead roles in Shakespearean stage productions. He made his film debut in 1964 as a bombardier in Stanley Kubrick’s “Dr. Strangelove.”

In 1967 Jones was cast as troubled boxer Jack Johnson in a theatrical production of “The Great White Hope,” a career-changing role that won him a Tony. He reprised the role three years later in the film adaptation, becoming only the second African American man, after Sidney Poitier, to be nominated for an Academy Award.

By the mid-1970s Jones was working steadily in movies and TV – a prolific run that never slowed. Over the next five decades he appeared in many memorable roles: As Alex Haley in TV’s “ Roots: The Next Generations ,” warlord Thulsa Doom in “Conan the Barbarian,” an African king in “Coming to America,” Kevin Costner’s reluctant recruit in “Field of Dreams,” Admiral Greer in “The Hunt for Red October” and “Patriot Games” and a South African preacher in “Cry, the Beloved Country.”

The power of speech

In 2019 he again voiced Mufasa in Disney’s remake of “The Lion King,” becoming the only cast member to reprise his role from the first film.

Over the years he also guest-starred in dozens of TV series, from “L.A. Law” to “Sesame Street,” appeared regularly on the stage and lent his deep, rumbling voice to everything from “The Simpsons” to a popular audio recording of the King James version of the Bible.

Jones said people in public sometimes didn’t recognize him until they heard his voice.

“When you don’t talk it’s like going ninja,” he told Rachael Ray in 2016. “You get in the taxi and say where you’re going and the guy turns around and says, ‘Hey, aren’t you that Darth Vader guy?’”

Over his long and prolific career Jones won three Tonys, two Emmys, a Grammy, a Golden Globe and numerous other awards.

“It wasn’t acting. It was language. It was speech,” he said when asked what aroused his passion for acting. “It was the thing that I’d … denied myself all those years (as a boy). I now had a great — an abnormal — appreciation for it.

“And it was the idea that you can do a play — like a Shakespeare play, or any well-written play, Arthur Miller, whatever — and say things you could never imagine saying, never imagine thinking in your own life,” he told the Academy of Achievement in 1996.

“You could say these things! That’s what it’s still about, whether it’s the movies or TV or what. That what it’s still about.”

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Trump suggests tariffs can help solve rising child care costs in a major economic speech

Former President Donald Trump Former tells business leaders he’ll lead a “national economic renaissance” by slashing regulations to boost energy production, drastically cutting government spending and reducing taxes for companies that produce in the US.

Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump answers questions during a campaign event at the Economic Club of New York, Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump responds to questions during a campaign event at the Economic Club of New York, Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign stop at the Throwback Brewery, in North Hampton, N.H., Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign event at the Economic Club of New York, Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Pamela Smith)

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NEW YORK (AP) — Former President Donald Trump suggested to business leaders Thursday that his plans to increase tariffs on foreign imports would solve seemingly unrelated challenges such as the rising cost of child care in the U.S.

The GOP presidential nominee promised to lead what he called a “national economic renaissance” by increasing tariffs, slashing regulations to boost energy production and drastically cutting government spending as well as corporate taxes for companies that produce in the U.S.

Trump was asked at his appearance before the Economic Club of New York about his plans to drive down child care costs to help more women join the workforce.

“Child care is child care, it’s something you have to have in this country. You have to have it,” he said. Then, he said his plans to tax imports from foreign nations at higher levels would “take care” of such problems.

“We’re going to be taking in trillions of dollars, and as much as child care is talked about as being expensive, it’s — relatively speaking — not very expensive, compared to the kind of numbers we’ll be taking in,” he said.

Trump has embraced tariffs as he appeals to working-class voters who oppose free-trade deals and the outsourcing of factories and jobs. But in his speech Thursday and his economic plans as a whole, Trump has made a broader — to some, implausible — promise on tariffs: that they can raise trillions of dollars to fund his agenda without those costs being passed along to consumers in the form of higher prices.

His campaign attacks Democratic nominee Kamala Harris ’ proposals to increase corporate tax rates by saying they would ultimately be borne by workers in the form of fewer jobs and lower incomes. Yet taxes on foreign imports would have a similar effect with businesses and consumers having to absorb those costs in the form of higher prices.

The United States had $3.8 trillion worth of imports last year, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. Trump in the past has talked about universal tariffs of at least 10%, if not higher, though he has not spelled out details about how these taxes would be implemented.

Kimberly Clausing, an economist at the University of California, Los Angeles, has repeatedly warned in economic analyses about the likely damage to people’s finances from Trump’s tariffs. She noted that Trump wants tariffs to pay for everything, even though they can’t.

“I believe Trump has already spent this revenue, to pay for his tax cuts (which it doesn’t), or to perhaps end the income tax (which it cannot),” she said in an email. “It is unclear how there would be any revenues left over to fund child care.”

Trump was asked to talk about child care

Child care is unaffordable for many Americans and financially precarious for many day care operators and their employees. Democrats in Congress have long argued the child care industry is in crisis and requires a drastic increase in federal aid — and some Republicans have joined them. Trump pointed to his tariff ideas as well as efforts he announced to reduce what he described as “waste and fraud.”

“I want to stay with child care, but those numbers are small relative to the kind of economic numbers that I’m talking about, including growth, but growth also headed up by what the plan is that I just told you about,” he said.

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Trump’s running mate JD Vance was also asked about proposals to lower day care costs earlier this week, and he suggested making it easier for families to keep the kids at home with a grandparent or another relative.

“Make it so that, maybe like grandma or grandpa wants to help out a little bit more,” he said. “If that happens, you relieve some of the pressure on all the resources that we are spending on day care.”

Vance also suggested training more people to work in day cares, and said some states required what he called “ridiculous certification that has nothing to do with taking care of kids.”

Trump laid out a series of economic proposals

In his speech, Trump said he would immediately issue “a national emergency declaration” to achieve a massive increase in the domestic energy supply and eliminate 10 current regulations for every new regulation the government adopts. He said Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has agreed to head a commission to perform a financial audit of the federal government that would save trillions of dollars.

“My plan will rapidly defeat inflation, quickly bring down prices and reignite explosive economic growth,” Trump claimed.

Trump has previously floated the idea of chopping the corporate tax rate to 15%, but on Thursday clarified that would be solely for companies that produce in the U.S. The corporate rate had been 35% when he became president in 2017, and he later signed a bill lowering it.

Harris calls for raising the corporate tax rate to 28% from 21%. Her policy proposals this week have been geared toward promoting more entrepreneurship, a bet that making it easier to start new companies will increase middle-class prosperity.

On Thursday, Trump attacked Harris’ proposals on banning price gouging and accused her of embracing Marxism and communism.

“She wants four more years to enforce the radical left agenda that poses a fundamental threat to the prosperity of every American family and America itself,” he said.

He also vowed to end what he called Harris’ “anti-energy crusade,” promising that energy prices would be cut in half, although energy prices are often driven by international fluctuations. He said an emergency declaration would help with rapid approvals for new drilling projects, pipelines, refineries, power plants and reactors, where local opposition is generally fierce.

And he also said he would ask Congress to pass legislation to ban the spending of taxpayer money on people who have entered the country illegally. He specifically said he would bar them from obtaining mortgages in California, targeting a bill passed in that state last week. Throughout his campaign, Trump has railed against the economic impact of the influx of migrants that have entered the country in recent years and their strain on some government services.

The Harris campaign issued a memo accusing Trump of wanting to hurt the middle class, arguing his ideas would expand the national debt and shrink economic growth and job creation.

“He wants our economy to serve billionaires and big corporations,” the campaign said in a statement.

Their dueling economic proposals are likely to be central to the upcoming presidential debate on Tuesday. Harris arrived Thursday in downtown Pittsburgh to devote the next several days to preparing for the debate. She intentionally picked a key part of the battleground state of Pennsylvania to hone her ideas ahead of their showdown.

Trump plans to rely heavily on tariffs

In June, the right-leaning Tax Foundation estimated that Trump’s proposed tariffs would amount to a $524 billion yearly tax hike that would shrink the economy and cost the equivalent of 684,000 jobs. After Trump floated tariffs as high as 20% in August, the Harris campaign seized on an analysis suggesting that figure would raise a typical family’s expenses by almost $4,000 annually.

The money raised by tariffs would not be enough to offset the cost of his various income tax cuts, including a plan to whittle the corporate rate to 15% from 21%. The Penn Wharton Budget Model put the price tag on that at $5.8 trillion over 10 years.

Economists have warned about Trump’s plans to impose tariffs that he says would return manufacturing jobs to the U.S. Some have said such taxes on imports could worsen inflation, though he is vowing to cut down costs. Inflation peaked in 2022 at 9.1% but has since eased to 2.9% as of last month.

“Some might say it’s economic nationalism. I call it common sense. I call it America First,” he said on Thursday.

Gomez Licon reported from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Boak reported from Pittsburgh. Associated Press writers Moriah Balingit and Amelia Thomson-DeVeaux in Washington contributed to this report.