how to write a head student speech

Applying for Head Boy or Head Girl at School – The Comprehensive Guide

In A-Level , GCSE , General by Think Student Editor March 29, 2021 6 Comments

Up and down the country, boys and girls apply to be Head Boy and Head Girl. These roles are common in both secondary schools and sixth form colleges. Of course, there is often competition for these high positions at school, so what is the best way to apply and have a good chance at becoming Head Boy or Head Girl?  

Table of Contents

Why Would You Want  to  Be Head Boy Or Head Girl?  

So, why should you aspire to be Head Boy or Head Girl? There are so many benefits to gaining this role , and here are a few of them:  

• This position looks great on your CV.   When you are applying for a job (especially a position of leadership), being Head Boy/Girl will show your potential employer that you have had experience in leadership and organising things. Not to mention the people skills being Head Boy/Girl will give you.   
• Being Head Boy/Girl gives you experience in leadership and organisation –  you will most likely be asked to attend events outside of school time and play a part in organising these events too, which will give you an idea as to what it is like to have a position of leadership in the future (possibly even your career).  
• The position usually sets your university application apart from the rest.  If you are looking to apply to university (especially Russell Group Universities), being a Head Boy/Girl shows them that you have the enthusiasm to study at their university. However, it is important to remember that being Head Boy/Girl will not guarantee your place at university – academic ability takes precedence.  It is also important to note that certain universities (including Oxford) do not look at whether you were Head Boy or Girl at all on your application.   

Think About What  the  Role May Involve  

The amount of work you are given to do as Head Boy or Girl may differ depending on your school,  and it is important to think about the responsibilities you will have to take on before you  apply.   

Head Boys and Girls tend to be involved with events which happen outside of school time such as networking events and parent’s evenings for any year group.  Being a Head Boy or Girl means that you are setting the example for the school , so you will probably be needed at open evenings for prospective students and subsequently  Year 6 induction days.  You should be willing to turn up to these events, and they should take priority over any extracurricular activities you may be a part of.  Because you are setting the example for younger students, your grades at school may play a part in whether you are picked to be Head Boy or Girl.  

As a Head Boy or Girl, you may also be required to deliver speeches to a variety of people , whether it be staff, your own year group, or those lower down the school than you.  This means that you will need at least basic public speaking skills.  

No matter where you become Head Boy or Girl, it will require dedication to what you are doing . A good Head Boy or Girl will put work into everything they organise and show enthusiasm about their role in the school.  

Before you apply for the role of Head Boy or Girl, you should have a good think about whether it is the role for you. Remember, if you decide it isn’t, there are plenty more positions you could take up which may be more suited to you with the same prestige as Head Boy or Girl.   

What Qualities Do You Need  to  Be Head Boy or Girl?  

The majority of  schools have a good idea/picture as to how they want their Head Boy and Girls to behave, and the qualities that they want them to have.  Firstly, you must be willing to take on the responsibilities that the position would involve – writing speeches, meeting new people and being there when and where you are needed.  The whole point of being a Head Boy or Girl is to take on a huge responsibility for the school, so if you are not willing, then maybe it’s not the position for you.   

One of the most important skills you need to be a Head Boy or Girl are leadership skills.  You will most likely be asked to organise events either by yourself or with the other Head Boy/Girl opposite you, and you will most definitely need resilience and management skills to do this. Of course , being Head Boy/Girl is an opportunity to work on these qualities/skills through experience,  but you must have some idea of what you are to do when you apply for the position.   

Another important skill which schools tend to look for is public speaking.  Head Boys and Girls must deliver speeches to their fellow students, as mentioned above. However, do not worry if you feel like this is a weak spot of yours – there are many ways in which you can improve your public speaking before you apply for your position.  For example,  delivering speeches to your friends or family may improve your confidence in speaking in front of people .  For some  more  ideas about how to improve your public speaking, check out  Better Public Speaking – Becoming A Confident, Compelling Speaker .   

Something which some schools may look at is your involvement with the school in general. You may want to join clubs or other extracurricular activities so that your school knows how you interact with the school as a student before you as a Head Boy or Girl.  Schools often looks for Head Boys and Girls who are very enthusiastic about school both in and out of the classroom.  

If you want to read more about the qualities that schools look for in Head Boys and Girls, I would recommend that you have a read of  this useful article , which discusses the top qualities that a Head Boy/Girl should have.   

Famous Head Boys  And  Girl s  

You may be surprised to find out that  many famous faces have been Head Boy or Girl during their time at school.   For some, it  is possible that  their position  at school  even helped them get to where they are today!  

Famous actors who have been Head Boy and Girl include  Kate Winslet  (Titanic) , Matt Smith  (Doctor Who) , Hayley Atwell  (Captain America) , Jenna Coleman  (Doctor Who)  and Christopher Eccleston  (Doctor Who) .   

Notable politicians who were Head Boy or Girl at their schools were  Jeremy Hunt, Alison McGovern and Margaret Thatcher.  

Other famous faces who were Head Boy or Girl include  J.K Rowling  (author, Harry Potter series) , Leigh-Anne Pinnock ( singer,  Little Mix), Prince Charles and Princess Beatrice.   

These all did it, and so could you!  

Tips  For  Applying For Head Boy or Girl  

Obviously,  the way in which you apply for Head Boy or Girl will determine your chance of getting the position , so it is important to really have a think through each step of the process.  The three most common application techniques for Head Boy or Girl are application letters, in-person interviews and speeches, so here are some ways in which you can polish up your skills for them.   

Effectively Compose Your Head  B oy/ G irl  Le tter  

When applying to be Head Boy or Girl in most schools, you will be asked to write a letter to  a senior staff member stating your reasons as to why you want the position.  This letter could be  written to your Head of Year, Head of Sixth Form, or even your Headteacher – it will all depend on which school you go to, so make sure you check!   

Your letter should show off examples of when you have shown the qualities which your school is looking for in their Head Students.  Perhaps you have shown teamwork skills in your sports team or have shown leadership skills when organising a charity event in the past. You should also mention how being Head Boy or Girl would benefit you personally (try not to make it sound as if you only want the position to put it on your CV). It is good to mention the experiences you are looking to gain by being Head Boy or Girl. You may also want to consider discussing the issues that you would like to face within your school, and what practical solutions you have come up with to improve them (if you are looking for ideas,  this article   could be very useful!).   

Of course,  the application letter should use accurate, good English , and you should  proofread  it multiple times.  Leaving spelling and grammar mistakes in your letter will leave a bad impression on the school  and will significantly lower your chances of being asked back for an interview. The best way to proofread your letter is to read it aloud or get your family and friends to read it  as they are more likely to spot mistakes which you might have missed.  

Most importantly, in your application letter, you should really introduce yourself to the reader. Let them know about your hobbies, interests and possible future career paths. This will bring a sense of uniqueness to your application, and make you stand out from the rest. If you don’t do this, your letter could be boring to read.   

Prepare For Your Head Boy/Girl Interview  

If your letter of application is successful, you will be asked to meet a member of staff for an interview.  This may seem nerve-wracking, especially if you are applying to be a younger Head Boy or Girl at your school, but there is no need to panic!  

You should treat this interview as you would a job interview  – following these simple rules can ensure that you appear as a worthy candidate for the role.  

• Arrive early/on time.  Turning up late to your interview, no matter when it is, will give a bad impression of you to your interviewer. If you cannot turn up on time for your interview, then how are you going to be on time to an open evening or speech in the future? Arriving early will show preparedness for your interview and enthusiasm for the position.  
• Dress appropriately . Again, not doing this will create a bad first impression for your interviewer. You may be asked to wear your school uniform if you have one . Make sure you have the basics covered – shirt tucked in, tie straightened, hair tidied, and shoes polished. If you are in sixth form, you should arrive in clothes which are smart, modest and not too uncomfortable – you don’t want to be distracted by your clothes while talking to your interviewer. For more information about what you should and shouldn’t wear to an interview, check out  What Should You Wear  To  A University Interview.    
• Have a think about what you want to talk to your interviewer about  – they may ask about why you applied for the position again, and past experiences you have had with leadership and public speaking. You will most likely be discussing what you have written in your application letter, so it is important not to lie. By thinking through what you want to say beforehand, you will be giving yourself some confidence for when you walk into the interview room.   
• Thoroughly read the email or letter about your interview . Some schools may ask you to deliver a speech to your interviewer for them to see your public speaking skills. You don’t want to turn up unprepared for something you could have made preparations for beforehand.  Read on for some tips on writing and delivering your speech.  

Write Your Head  B oy/ G irl  S peech  

You may be asked to deliver a speech either before or after you get given the role of Head Boy or Girl . As stated above, some schools get their applicants to show an example of their public speaking through them delivering a speech.   

By the time you are applying for Head Boy or Girl, you will have probably studied speech writing in your English Language classes, but here are a few tips to keep in mind when writing a speech for Head Boy or Girl.   

• Use paragraphs . This may seem obvious, but it is a technique that many students tend to forget when coming up with a speech. Each paragraph you write should have a slightly different topic, however, these topics will of course depend on the general topic of your speech.   
• Use anecdotes and personal experiences to make yourself more relatable to your audience.  By doing this, you are making yourself more likeable, and using an advanced literary technique at the same time.  
• Make sure that you know exactly what your point is and what you want to convey.  There’s no use in writing a speech with no clear conclusion – you should ensure that you know exactly what you want the audience to gain from listening to you. 
• Proofread your speech! The most important thing to ensure when writing a speech is that it makes sense – if you can’t understand your own speech, then how can you expect your audience to? You may want to ask a friend or family member to do this for you as a fresh pair of eyes often helps when spotting mistakes.
• Practice!  It is a bad idea to turn up on the day and recite your speech for the first time. It doesn’t matter if you are memorising your speech or reading it from a script – you will need practice in delivering it. This is another good way to proofread your speech while also practicing the way you want to deliver it.  Perhaps you would like to put emphasis on certain words or phrases, or simply just need to go over it a few times to help with some tricky parts which you find difficult to read aloud.   

What If You Don’t Get It?  

If you don’t end up getting offered the position of Head Boy or Girl, then there is no reason to panic!  You will be given plenty more opportunities in the future for positions and experiences which look just as prestigious on your CV. As stated at the beginning of the article,  being Head Boy or Girl will not swing the decision of  whether or not  you get into university.  

It is also important to remember that if you are applying to be Head Boy or Girl  from Year 7 to 11, then you will most likely have another chance to apply for the position again in sixth  form  –  you could even use this time to prepare for the application process even more!  

If you are looking to apply for Head Boy or Girl, you should definitely consider the tips given in this article as they will boost your chances of being successful by a lot. Remember, there are lots of applicants for this position every year up and down the country, so you shouldn’t be hard on yourself if your application is unsuccessful. If you have applied to be Head Boy or Girl lower down the school, you can always apply again in the future for your sixth form.   

i really like this . it was really creative .

When can you apply to this position? At the start of year, or during summer? Is it okay to apply in the mid term or something ?

in my school they do it near the end of year 10 so around late may to early June

probably you get told when to apply

Wow….this is incredibly helpful. Thank you

Best Head Boy Speech: A Student’s Top 10 Tips

• by Ajah_Excel
• April 11, 2024
• 9 minute read

Getting elected as a head boy in a school is a great honor that shows the trust and respect your colleagues have placed in you. It also comes with a big responsibility to represent your fellow students, contribute to an enriching experience for them, and become a voice for their concerns.

One of the first assignments that comes with it, is to deliver a compelling Head Boy Speech. The Head Boy speech outlines your goals for the coming year and creates a chance to connect with your teachers, staff, and students, to inspire them to join you in creating a vibrant and successful school community.

In this article, we will walk through the step-by-step procedures and important tips of writing an inspiring Head Boy Speech that will reveal your leadership potential and leave your audience engaged.

Table of contents

Head boy speech, what do you say in a head boy speech, what makes a good head boy speech, head boy speech format, how to write a head boy speech, how to start a head boy speech, how to end a head boy speech, what should be in your head boy speech, tips for a head boy speech, recommendations.

A head boy speech is a significant address delivered by a student who has been entrusted with the prestigious role of head boy in a school. It entails a range of responsibilities and expectations, reflecting the highest standard of leadership.

Typically, the speech involves introducing oneself, expressing gratitude for the honor, and outlining a vision for the future. The key elements include inspiring and motivating fellow students, fostering a sense of unity and inclusivity, and addressing issues and concerns within the school community.

An effective head boy speech should be eloquent, sincere, and tailored to resonate with the audience, showcasing qualities of responsibility, empathy, and a commitment to positive change.

Read: Top 15 Head Boy Ideas to Improve School: Ways We Can Improve Schools Today

In a head-boy speech, you want to convey qualities of leadership, responsibility, and a vision for a better school community. Here’s an example of what you might say:

“Good [morning/afternoon/evening], fellow students, teachers, and honoured guests,

First and foremost, I want to express my profound gratitude for entrusting me with the privilege of serving as your head boy. It is both a humbling and exhilarating experience.

As head boy, I pledge to be a dedicated advocate for every one of you. Together, we can create a school environment where every student feels valued and heard. My vision is to foster inclusivity, promote diversity, and champion tolerance. We’ll work on initiatives that enhance our academic and extracurricular experiences, making our school a place where dreams can take root and flourish.

I promise to be approachable and open to your ideas and concerns. Together, we will make our school a better place for everyone.

Thank you for your trust, and I can’t wait to embark on this exciting journey with all of you.”

This speech demonstrates gratitude, a clear vision, and a commitment to inclusivity and collaboration – all essential elements of a successful head boy speech.

A good head boy speech possesses several key qualities that make it effective and memorable. Firstly, it should convey genuine gratitude and humility for being entrusted with the role, as this sets a positive tone.

The speech should also showcase strong communication skills , including clarity, confidence, and the ability to engage the audience.

See the 50 Best Skills to Learn Before College

Moreover, a successful head boy’s speech outlines a clear vision for the school community . It should address current issues or concerns and propose tangible solutions or improvements. This demonstrates leadership and problem-solving abilities. The speech should emphasize inclusivity, encouraging unity among students and fostering a sense of belonging for all.

Additionally, a good head boy speech should inspire and motivate the audience. It should reflect a deep commitment to the betterment of the school and the well-being of its students. Personal anecdotes or experiences can be used to connect with the audience on a more emotional level.

Lastly, a great head boy’s speech is concise, well-structured, and respectful. It avoids negative comments or divisive rhetoric and maintains a positive and respectful tone throughout.

In essence, a good head boy speech combines gratitude, clear vision, inclusivity, inspiration, and effective communication to leave a lasting impression on the school community.

A head boy’s speech typically follows a structured format to convey the speaker’s message effectively. Here’s a suggested format:

• Opening: Begin with a warm and engaging greeting, addressing the audience respectfully. You can start with a greeting like “Good [morning/afternoon/evening], distinguished guests, teachers, and my fellow students.”
• Introduction: Introduce yourself briefly. Share your name, grade, and any relevant personal details or achievements that establish your qualifications for the role of head boy.
• Gratitude: Express sincere gratitude for being selected as the head boy. Acknowledge the trust and confidence placed in you by the school, teachers, and peers.
• Vision: Clearly articulate your vision for the school. Discuss your goals and aspirations for the school community, emphasizing positive changes and improvements you hope to achieve.
• Inclusivity: Address the importance of inclusivity and unity within the school. Discuss your commitment to fostering a welcoming environment where every student feels valued and respected.
• Motivation: Inspire and motivate the audience. Share anecdotes, quotes, or stories that convey your passion for the role and your dedication to making a difference.
• Commitment: Declare your commitment to your responsibilities as head boy and explain how you plan to work collaboratively with students, teachers, and staff to achieve your goals.
• Call to Action: Encourage your fellow students to actively participate in your initiatives and support your vision for the school. Invite them to join you in creating positive change.
• Closing: Summarize your key points and end with a powerful closing statement. This could be a call for unity, a memorable quote, or a personal reflection.
• Thank You: Thank you once again for the opportunity and the audience’s attention. Conclude with another respectful greeting, such as “Thank you for listening, and I look forward to serving you all.”

Also, read: 27+ GCSE Speech Ideas in 2024: English Speaking and Listening Ideas

Writing a compelling head-boy speech involves careful planning and effective communication. Start with a warm greeting and a brief introduction of yourself. Express genuine gratitude for the opportunity and acknowledge the trust placed in you.

Next, outline your vision for the school. Discuss the positive changes you hope to bring and the values you intend to uphold, emphasizing inclusivity and unity. Share personal anecdotes or stories that reflect your passion for the role and your connection to the school community.

Commit to your responsibilities, detailing your plans for collaboration with students, teachers, and staff. Encourage active involvement and support from your peers.

End with a strong call to action, inviting students to join you in achieving your goals. Summarize your key points and conclude with a memorable statement or quote.

Practice your speech to ensure clarity, confidence, and engagement. Tailor it to your unique personality and vision, making it a genuine reflection of your commitment to being a responsible and inspiring head boy.

Starting a head boy speech effectively is crucial to capture your audience’s attention and set the tone for your address. Here are some examples of how to begin:

• Personal Introduction: “Good [morning/afternoon/evening], respected teachers, fellow students, and honored guests. My name is [Your Name], and I stand before you as a proud student of [School Name].”
• Quotation: “I’d like to begin today with a quote that has always inspired me: ‘Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.’ – Simon Sinek.”
• Anecdote: “Let me take you back to my first day at [School Name]. I was nervous, uncertain, but also filled with a sense of wonder about the journey ahead.”
• A Question: “ Have you ever wondered what it truly means to lead, to inspire, and to make a difference?”
• Gratitude: “I am deeply humbled and honored to stand before you today as a candidate for the role of head boy. Thank you for entrusting me with this incredible responsibility.”

Concluding a head boy speech effectively is essential to leave a lasting impression on your audience. Here are some ways to end your speech with impact, along with examples:

• Summarize Key Points: “In closing, remember our commitment to unity, inclusivity, and positive change. Let’s work together to make our school an even better place.”
• Call to Action: “I invite each one of you to join me in this journey of transformation. Let’s take the first step together and make our dreams for [School Name] a reality.”
• Inspiring Quote: “As Mahatma Gandhi once said, ‘Be the change you wish to see in the world.’ Let’s be that change, starting right here in our beloved school.”
• Express Gratitude: “Thank you for your time and attention today. I am excited and honored to serve you as your head boy.”
• Personal Reflection: “I leave you with a promise: I will give my all to this role, just as I have given my heart to this school.”

Your head boy speech should include several key elements to convey your message effectively:

• Introduction: Start with a warm greeting and a brief self-introduction.
• Gratitude: Express genuine thanks for the opportunity and the trust placed in you.
• Vision: Clearly articulate your vision for the school, emphasizing positive changes and values you intend to uphold.
• Inclusivity: Stress the importance of inclusivity and unity within the school community.
• Inspiration: Share personal anecdotes or stories that reflect your passion for the role and your connection to the school.
• Commitment: Declare your commitment to your responsibilities and plans for collaboration with students and staff.
• Call to Action: Encourage active involvement and support from your peers, inviting them to join you in achieving your goals.
• Closing: Summarize your key points and conclude with a strong and memorable statement.

Read also: How to Become a Student Writer in a Short Time

Here are ten tips for delivering a successful head boy speech:

• Start Strong: Begin with a captivating opening that grabs your audience’s attention and sets a positive tone.
• Be Genuine: Speak from the heart, and let your passion and sincerity shine through.
• Articulate Your Vision: Clearly outline your vision for the school and the positive changes you hope to bring.
• Connect with Your Audience: Share personal anecdotes or stories that relate to your vision and resonate with your peers.
• Emphasize Inclusivity: Stress the importance of inclusivity and unity, making every student feel valued and heard.
• Express Gratitude: Thank your audience for the opportunity and the trust placed in you.
• Inspire and Motivate: Use inspirational quotes or stories to encourage your peers to join you in achieving your goals.
• Stay Positive: Maintain a positive and respectful tone throughout your speech, avoiding negative comments or divisive language.
• Be Concise: Keep your speech focused and concise, ensuring it remains engaging and easy to follow.
• Practice, Practice, Practice: Practice your speech multiple times to build confidence and ensure smooth delivery on the day of the speech.

The duty of a head boy typically involves serving as a role model, fostering a positive school environment, representing students’ interests, promoting discipline, and actively contributing to the school’s development and well-being.

To be a good head boy, demonstrate strong leadership, empathy, and responsibility. Communicate effectively, listen to your peers, and foster inclusivity. Uphold school values, lead by example, and work collaboratively to bring positive change to the school community.

As a head boy, you can promote unity, organize events, address student concerns, and champion inclusivity. Encourage academic excellence, lead by example, and work with students and staff to enhance the overall school experience.

Presenting a good head boy speech can create for you an opportunity to lead, inspire, and make a lasting impact on your school community. It is an exciting initial step in your leadership journey because it sets the tone for your term as head boy.

Successful head boy speeches aren’t about eloquent words; they’re about action. You can use your speech as a springboard to actualize your plans and effectively represent your fellow students.

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Head Girl Sample Speech

[Note: The following is a sample speech for the position of Head Girl. Please personalize it with your own experiences and values to make it more authentic.]

Good morning, respected teachers, honored guests, fellow students, and dear friends,

I stand before you today with a heart filled with gratitude and excitement as I accept the great honor and responsibility of being elected as your Head Girl. First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest thanks to all of you who have put your trust in me to serve our school community.

When I reflect on my journey so far, I see a myriad of experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. From the first day I walked through the school gates, I knew this place was special. Our school is more than just a building; it's a thriving community that nurtures not only academic excellence but also character development and personal growth.

As Head Girl, my mission is to be a dedicated and approachable leader, to represent and support each and every one of you. Together, we will build an even stronger school spirit, foster a sense of belonging, and create an environment where everyone feels valued and included.

One of my main goals is to encourage open communication and collaboration among students, teachers, and the administration. I believe that every voice deserves to be heard, and I am committed to being a channel for your thoughts, ideas, and concerns. Together, we can bring about positive change and improvements in our school life.

Academic excellence is at the core of our journey, but it is not the sole purpose of our education. As Head Girl, I will strive to promote a holistic approach to learning. I want us to embrace extracurricular activities, sports, arts, and community service. These experiences not only shape our personalities but also teach us valuable life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and empathy.

Furthermore, I am determined to work with the student body to address important issues that affect us, our society, and our planet. From promoting sustainability to championing diversity and inclusion, we can make a difference and set an example for the world.

I also believe that each of us has unique talents and passions. As Head Girl, I will support and encourage our students to explore and develop their interests fully. Whether it's in academics, sports, arts, or any other field, our achievements should be celebrated, and our efforts should be recognized.

Finally, let's remember that the journey ahead may have its challenges, but together, we are capable of overcoming any obstacle. Let's create an atmosphere of kindness, respect, and understanding, where we uplift and inspire one another.

In conclusion, I am truly honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve as your Head Girl. With your support and cooperation, we can make this academic year memorable and impactful for all of us. Together, let's write a story of success, friendship, and growth. Thank you for your trust, and I look forward to working with each and every one of you.

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How to Write a Student Council Speech

Last Updated: October 17, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Patrick Muñoz . Patrick is an internationally recognized Voice & Speech Coach, focusing on public speaking, vocal power, accent and dialects, accent reduction, voiceover, acting and speech therapy. He has worked with clients such as Penelope Cruz, Eva Longoria, and Roselyn Sanchez. He was voted LA's Favorite Voice and Dialect Coach by BACKSTAGE, is the voice and speech coach for Disney and Turner Classic Movies, and is a member of Voice and Speech Trainers Association. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article has 130 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 2,135,860 times.

Being a member of the student council can help you help your school. However, it takes hard work to get into the student council . You need to craft a good speech that gives your classmates incentives to vote for you.

Your Student Council Speech

Use a strong, attention-grabbing opening. Discuss your qualifications briefly, then move on. Focus your speech on your passion and present a blueprint to achieve your goals. Close with a strong summary and call to vote for you.

Sample Speeches

Writing the Introduction

• Do not merely start by saying, "My name is ___ and I'm running for student council." Your classmates will already know as much and this is not really a unique statement. There will be time to state the basic information after you've got the class's attention. [1] X Research source
• You can open with a question. Something like, "If there was one thing you could change about this school, what would it be?" Or a question that adds some humor , like, "I know what you're thinking. Why should I listen to this person?" and then proceed to lay out your credentials. Quotes on leadership, power, and guidance would also make good openings. However, make sure to double-check your sources and especially if you're finding quotes online. Many online quote databases, like Quote Garden or Brainy Quote, sometimes attribute quotes to the wrong sources. [2] X Research source
• If you're stuck, look up and read famous speeches. You can find many speeches from presidents, world leaders, civil rights activists, and others online. Pay attention to how they opened their speeches and ask yourself, "Was this interesting? Do I want to keep reading/listening? Why?" [3] X Research source

• State your name and grade in school. This may feel somewhat unnecessary if you go to a small school, but it's considered a formality. If you're missing this part of the speech, you may end up looking sloppy in comparison to other students. [5] X Research source
• State what you want. That is, what you're running for. Do you want to be the president , vice president , treasurer, secretary? Even if you think most students are aware of what position you're running for, make sure you state it here to remind them. [6] X Research source
• Try to keep this section brief as it's not as important as your qualifications and plans to improve the school . Even one sentence would suffice. For example, "My name is Ramona Hart, I'm in the 11th grade, and I'm running for treasurer of the student council."

• Any accomplishments relevant to the position warrant mentioning here. If you're running for secretary, for example, talk about your summer job filing papers in your uncle's law firm. If you're running for student council president, talk about your leadership experience being captain of the swim team. [7] X Research source
• While this section is important, try to keep it minimal. A couple of sentences laying out your qualifications is enough as the body of your speech is where you should spend the most time. For example, let's go back to the above example. From there, we could say, "I am currently enrolled in advanced placement algebra and I have been an honor roll student for three years. This knowledge of numbers and diligence qualifies me to have responsibility for finances for our student council." [8] X Research source

Writing the Body of the Speech

• You should list your ideas and then expand on them later in the body. It might take a bit of research to figure out what you want to change. Ask around the school, talking to students and teachers, and see where there's room for improvement. What are the concerns of the students? What are people happy with regarding the school? What would they like to see change? Asking these questions can help you get a sense of your audience and community.
• Remember, you should not make promises you cannot keep. Do not say anything just to get elected. While many students might want gum-chewing policies eliminated or for the lunch period to run twice as long, this is probably not necessary or possible. Try to focus on areas that seem important to keep your school running safely and efficiently. Concerns about things like bullying , academic standards, and extracurricular activities should be your concern over fun and games. [10] X Research source
• A good opening statement for your body would state the causes important to you and what you plan to do about them. For example, if you were running for president, you could say something like, "I understand we need to improve how we handle bullying, increase interest in extracurricular activities, and expand access to AP courses throughout the school. As your president, I would work to bring in speakers to talk about sensitivity in the classroom, increase advertising for basketball games and quiz bowl tournaments, and start a tutoring program to help students struggling with certain subjects." [11] X Research source

• Using the school library or computers, figure out the best means to tackle certain problems many schools face. How have other schools dealt with bullying? Poor test scores? Low interest in extracurricular activities? What can you reasonably do as a student council member to address these problems? [12] X Research source
• You do not have to have a point-by-point plan laid out, but a few sentences on some preliminary ideas can help you stand out from your peers. People are more inclined to vote for someone who's thought about how to solve problems in addition to identifying problems. [13] X Research source

Ending with a Strong Conclusion

• Do summarize, briefly, your qualifications but do not put the main focus on them. This is where you should sincerely state your passion. Students should not just vote for you because you'd do a good job but because you genuinely care about the school. State your passion for your community and how much you want to see other students succeed. Lots of students have high qualifications. You can set yourself apart by being a candidate who really cares. [16] X Research source

• Research what other student council speeches are like on video websites. This could help give you ideas.

Expert Q&A

• Only promise to do things that you really can do. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Practice reading your speech a few times, as you'll likely be nervous before giving it. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Even if you write a great speech, understand you may lose. Be prepared to lose graciously and sincerely congratulate the winning candidate. Thanks Helpful 125 Not Helpful 19
• Unlike in a governmental election, student council candidates should not attack each other, previous leaders, or other students. Otherwise, you could get into trouble and leave a bad impression on voters. Thanks Helpful 95 Not Helpful 16

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.studentcouncilpro.com/student-council-speeches.html
• ↑ http://www.write-out-loud.com/student-council-speeches.html
• ↑ Patrick Muñoz. Voice & Speech Coach. Expert Interview. 12 November 2019.

About This Article

To write a student council speech, start with an attention-grabbing statement such as a question or a powerful quote about leadership. Next, briefly explain who you are, what position you are running for, and why you are running. Then list any relevant qualifications, such as a summer job. In the body of the speech, discuss at least 3 ways to improve the school. For this section, make sure not to make any promises you can’t keep. Finally, end by briefly reiterating your main points and asking for the students’ vote. To learn more about how to support your ideas and research for your speech, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Sep 27, 2017

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Head Boy Speech – How to Write & Deliver an Inspiring Speech

Henry Divine Leave a comment

Table of Contents

Head Boy Speech Introduction

The position of head boy is a very privileged and distinguished one. He is at the helm of his peers and is seen as a role model for the entire school community. A head boy represents the values and ethos of the school and has the opportunity to lead by example and inspire others. More so, he shoulders several important responsibilities. Some of the responsibilities of a head boy include:

• maintaining discipline,
• fostering a positive school culture,
• acting as a bridge between students and the school administration.

Beyond the above responsibilities, there is yet another crucial task that a head boy delivers. That is, writing and delivering engaging and motivating speeches that resonate with other students on various occasions.

Occasions for a Head Boy Speech

As a student leader, here are some occasions where a head boy would need to deliver a speech:

1. Investiture Ceremony

The investiture ceremony is the occasion where student leaders are officially appointed and given their roles. It often marks the beginning of the school year and also happens to be the most common occasion for a Head Boy speech.

2. School Assembly

Head Boys may be asked to deliver speeches during regular school assemblies. The idea might be just to address the student body, share important messages or discuss upcoming events.

3. School Events and Celebrations

Head Boys might also be invited to speak at school events like annual day, sports day, cultural festivals, or graduation ceremonies to inspire and motivate their peers.

4. Open House or Parent-Teacher Meetings

Occasionally, schools invite Head Boys to speak to parents during open house events or parent-teacher meetings. The idea is for them to give insights into student life and the school’s activities.

5. Farewell or Welcome Address

Every new session, most schools bid farewell to their outgoing students as they welcome new students. Head Boys may be given the opportunity to give farewell speeches for outgoing students or welcome speeches for new students and their families.

6. Graduation Speech

In most schools, the Head Boy is often chosen as one of the people to give speeches during graduation. This is especially the case if the Head Boy is also part of the graduating set. So they deliver a speech inspiring fellow graduates and addressing their families.

7. Teacher Appreciation Events

In most events celebrating teachers and staff, Head Boys speak on behalf of other students. They appreciate the teachers and express gratitude.

8. Community Outreach Programs

When the school is involved in community service or outreach programs, the Head Boy can be called upon to speak about the school’s contributions and the importance of community involvement.

9. Sports Events

If the Head Boy is an athlete or if there’s a major sports event, they may give a motivational speech to rally support for the school’s sports teams.

There are many other occasions for a Head Boy speech beyond what we have above. The content and tone of the speech will vary depending on the occasion. However, regardless of the occasion, the Head Boy’s speech should be inspiring, and reflective of the significance of the event or purpose for which they are speaking.

Read Also: Best Opening Speech for Graduation Ceremonies [With Samples]

Steps to Preparing a Head Boy Speech

Before venturing into anything that’d be successful, there is always need for adequate preparation. So before stepping onto the stage to deliver a head boy speech, you need to prepare thoroughly.

In this section, I shall guide you through the essential steps you must go through in your preparation process. Here they are:

• Research and gather relevant information
• Understand the audience
• Set clear objectives
• craft a compelling message

1. Research and Gather Relevant Information

To create a speech that truly connects and resonates with your audience, you need to start by researching and gathering relevant information. The information you should gather might include the history of your school, its achievements and values. Knowing your school’s heritage and accomplishments can help you weave a compelling narrative.

2. Understand the Audience

In the art of speech preparation, understanding your audience is paramount. In this case, your audience is your fellow students, teachers and parents. Consider their expectations and interests, think about the things they value in a leader. Do the best you can to align your speech with their aspirations and values.

3. Set Clear Objectives

What exactly do you want to achieve with your head boy speech? Is it about inspiring your peers, rallying them behind a common cause, or simply introducing yourself as a leader? Is it about appreciating the teachers and staff and expressing gratitude to them? Whatever is the goal, clearly defining it will guide the content and tone of your speech.

4. Craft a Compelling Message

A compelling message is the heart of any successful speech. You should craft a message that connects and resonates with your audience. If it is a head boy speech for investiture ceremony, it must emphasize your leadership qualities and outline your vision as a head boy. If it is a speech to rally support for the school’s sports teams or outreach program, your message must be both inspiring and motivating. And so on.

In all, your head boy speech should be memorable and compelling.

Read Also: The Best Happy Matriculation Wishes, Messages & Prayers

How to Structure Your Speech

It is one thing to understand your audience and know exactly what you want to tell them, but it’s yet another thing to structure your thoughts and ideas well.

A successful head boy speech is not a random collection of thoughts and ideas. It is well-structured, following a logical flow that makes it easy for the audience to follow and engage with.

Here’s a suggested structure for a head boy speech:

Introduction

• Share personal experiences
• State your vision and goals
• Acknowledge supporters and recognize peers

Your introduction is the opening paragraphs of your speech. You can use that to welcome your audience, express gratitude and set the tone for the speech. Here’s how to go about it:

• Warm Welcome: Begin with a warm welcome to the audience as you acknowledge the importance of the occasion.
• Express Gratitude: Show appreciation for the trust and opportunity given to you to serve as the head boy.
• Set the Tone: Use an inspiring quote, anecdote or personal story to set the tone for your speech.

Share Personal Experiences

This should naturally follow the introduction. In so doing, you may share your personal insights, discuss your unique leadership qualities and relate them all to the audience. Here’s a simple way to go about that…

• Share Personal Insights: Offer a glimpse into your journey at the school. Share anecdotes, challenges and achievements that have shaped you as a person.
• Highlight Leadership Qualities: Discuss the leadership qualities you possess. Also emphasize how these qualities have been developed through your experiences.
• Relate to the Audience: Relate your experiences to the experiences of your peers, highlighting that you are just one of them.

Vision and Goals

After sharing your personal experiences, it’s time to share your visions and goals. Start by stating your vision, then lay out specific goals that align with your vision. Finally explain how you plan to achieve your goals in practical terms. Here’s a simple way to go about that:

• State Your Vision: Clearly articulate your vision for your term as the Head Boy. What positive changes do you want to bring to the school community?
• Lay Out Specific Goals: Provide specific, actionable goals that align with your vision. They should be realistic, attainable and time-bound.
• Explain How: Explain, in practical terms, how you plan to achieve these goals and invite collaboration from your peers.

Acknowledgments

At this point, you are heading towards the end of your speech. So you need to acknowledge your supporters and fellow students. Here’s how to structure your acknowledgements:

• Thank Supporters: Express gratitude to your family, teachers, friends and mentors who have supported and inspired you.
• Recognize Peers: Acknowledge the potential and capabilities of your fellow students. Emphasize that as a team, you can achieve greatness.
• Emphasize Unity: Stress the importance of unity and teamwork within the school community.

This is the ending part of your Head Boy Speech. You must appreciate the fact that the way you begin a speech is as important as the way you conclude it. Don’t end your speech on a low note and ensure you don’t leave your audience without a visible impact.

Here is a guide to conclude your speech well:

• End on a High Note: Conclude with a powerful statement that encapsulates your message. This could be a call to action, an inspirational quote or a memorable phrase.
• Reiterate Gratitude: Once again, express your gratitude for the opportunity and trust vested in you.
• Leave an Impact: Leave your audience with something to ponder and remember. Your concluding words should resonate with them long after the speech is over.

Here are some samples of Head Boy speeches that can serve as references as you pen down yours.

Sample Head Boy Speeches

To help you to better understand the structure and content of a head boy speech, I will give you three distinct sample speeches. Each will portray a unique style and approach.

Sample Head Boy Speech 1 (With a Visionary Approach)

I am deeply honored to stand before you as your new Head Boy. I would like to start by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have believed in me and supported me throughout my journey here at Heavenly Academy.

When I reflect on my years in this school, I see not just a series of classrooms and exams, but a tapestry of experiences that have molded me into the person I am today. Each of us has a unique story to tell, but we are all bound by our shared experiences in this incredible place.

My vision for our school is simple yet profound. I want to create an environment where every student can thrive, where every idea is heard and where every dream is supported. To achieve this, I have outlined a few specific goals:

• Fostering a culture of inclusivity, where no student ever feels left out.
• Promoting open communication between students, teachers and parents.
• Enhancing our extracurricular programs to provide opportunities for every talent to shine.

I know these goals can’t be achieved by one person alone. They require the collective effort of our entire school community. We are not just students; we are a team. And together, we can accomplish great things.

Sample Head Boy Speech 2 (Connecting with the Audience)

My journey at Heavenly Academy has been a remarkable one, filled with ups and downs, challenges and triumphs. I share these experiences with you, my friends, my mentors and my inspirations.

As head boy, my aim is to create a strong and unified school community. I believe in the power of unity and in the strength of diverse voices coming together. I want to encourage open dialogue among students, teachers and parents to ensure that our school is a place where everyone feels heard and valued.

Let us work together to make Heavenly Academy a hub of creativity, innovation and compassion. I envision a school where every student’s potential is recognized and nurtured, where we celebrate not only our academic achievements but also our acts of kindness.

In conclusion, I would like to remind you of the words of Mahatma Gandhi: ‘You must be the change you want to see in the world.’ Let us be the change we want to see in our school, our community and our lives. Thank you.

Sample Head Boy Speech 3 (with a Touch of Humor)

First and foremost, I’d like to express my gratitude to all those who have supported me, especially my friends and family. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and I’m grateful for this incredible village that has nurtured and guided me.

Now, let’s talk about our journey ahead. My vision for our school is simple. Let’s have a blast while learning and growing. I want to see smiles on the faces of students, teachers and parents alike. Let’s work hard, but let’s also remember to have fun along the way.

In practical terms, I want to introduce more exciting extracurricular activities, make our classrooms lively places of learning, and create an environment where we’re not afraid to make mistakes. After all, it’s from our mistakes that we learn the most.

In closing, let’s remember the words of Dr. Seuss: ‘Why fit in when you were born to stand out?’ Let’s be our unique, amazing selves, stand out and create a school community that’s as extraordinary as each one of us. Thank you.

Read Also: Post Secondary School Education —Meaning and Opportunities.

Now that we have a firm grip on how to write and structure a compelling Head Boy speech, let’s delve into speech delivery tips.

Head Boy Speech Delivery Tips

The truth is that a well-crafted Head Boy speech delivered poorly will make a bad impression on the audience. So a perfect head boy speech involves more than just the content; it’s also about how you present yourself.

Here are some essential tips for a successful speech delivery:

Body Language and Demeanor

On body language and demeanor as you deliver your head boy speech, focus on the following three things:

• Confidence: Maintain a confident posture. Stand tall and make eye contact with the audience.
• Gestures: Use gestures that emphasize or drive home your points. But avoid excessive or distracting movements.
• Smile: Wear a warm smile on your face. This can go a long way in connecting with the audience.

Voice Modulation

Voice modulation is an important factor for effective speech delivery. Focus on the following three things:

• Clarity: Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. By so doing, you ensure that everyone can follow your speech.
• Variety: Vary your tone and pitch to keep the audience engaged. Don’t speak in a monotone voice.
• Pauses: Use pauses effectively to let your audience absorb your words and create a sense of anticipation.

Connecting with the Audience

Connecting with the audience is very essential as it guarantees that you can sustain their interest throughout the speech. So you have to make every effort to engage them through smile, eye contact and empathy. Here’s how to go about it:

• Engagement: Make an effort to engage with your audience emotionally by sharing stories or anecdotes that they can relate to.
• Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact with different sections of the audience to make them feel involved.
• Empathy: Show empathy and understanding towards the concerns and aspirations of your peers.

Handling Nervousness

Social nervousness and stage fright are daunting challenges in speech delivery especially for introverts. But it’s not an insurmountable challenge. You can handle nervousness and stage fright by rehearsing your speech many times before the delivery day. It would also help to work on your mind by constantly imagining yourself delivering a successful speech. Here are three things you can do to handle nervousness:

• Practice: Rehearse your speech multiple times to build confidence and reduce nervousness.
• Deep Breaths: Before stepping onto the stage, take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves.
• Visualize Success: Imagine yourself delivering a successful speech to boost your confidence.

Here’s where we end this informative article trusting that you got value from it. We explored Head Boy speech trying to learn how best to write and deliver it. We also saw some samples giving different approaches. The approach you decide to use is your choice. The most important thing is to ensure that your speech reflects your authentic self while addressing the aspirations of your school community.

Kindly help us to reach others with this post. Share with friends on Social Media. Just scroll down to see the Facebook and Twitter and other social media buttons. Thank you so much!

See you on the next article.

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How to write a good speech in 7 steps

By:  Susan Dugdale  

- an easily followed format for writing a great speech

Did you know writing a speech doesn't have be an anxious, nail biting experience?

Unsure? Don't be.

You may have lived with the idea you were never good with words for a long time. Or perhaps giving speeches at school brought you out in cold sweats.

However learning how to write a speech is relatively straight forward when you learn to write out loud.

And that's the journey I am offering to take you on: step by step.

To learn quickly, go slow

Take all the time you need. This speech writing format has 7 steps, each building on the next.

Walk, rather than run, your way through all of them. Don't be tempted to rush. Familiarize yourself with the ideas. Try them out.

I know there are well-advertised short cuts and promises of 'write a speech in 5 minutes'. However in reality they only truly work for somebody who already has the basic foundations of speech writing in place.

The foundation of good speech writing 

These steps are the backbone of sound speech preparation. Learn and follow them well at the outset and yes, given more experience and practice you could probably flick something together quickly. Like any skill, the more it's used, the easier it gets.

In the meantime...

Step 1: Begin with a speech overview or outline

Are you in a hurry? Without time to read a whole page? Grab ... The Quick How to Write a Speech Checklist And come back to get the details later.

• WHO you are writing your speech for (your target audience)
• WHY you are preparing this speech. What's the main purpose of your speech? Is it to inform or tell your audience about something? To teach them a new skill or demonstrate something? To persuade or to entertain? (See 4 types of speeches: informative, demonstrative, persuasive and special occasion or entertaining for more.) What do you want them to think, feel or do as a result of listening the speech?
• WHAT your speech is going to be about (its topic) - You'll want to have thought through your main points and have ranked them in order of importance. And have sorted the supporting research you need to make those points effectively.
• HOW much time you have for your speech eg. 3 minutes, 5 minutes... The amount of time you've been allocated dictates how much content you need. If you're unsure check this page: how many words per minute in a speech: a quick reference guide . You'll find estimates of the number of words required for 1 - 10 minute speeches by slow, medium and fast talkers.

Use an outline

The best way to make sure you deliver an effective speech is to start by carefully completing a speech outline covering the essentials: WHO, WHY, WHAT and HOW.

Beginning to write without thinking your speech through is a bit like heading off on a journey not knowing why you're traveling or where you're going to end up. You can find yourself lost in a deep, dark, murky muddle of ideas very quickly!

Pulling together a speech overview or outline is a much safer option. It's the map you'll follow to get where you want to go.

Get a blank speech outline template to complete

Click the link to find out a whole lot more about preparing a speech outline . ☺ You'll also find a free printable blank speech outline template.  I recommend using it!

Understanding speech construction

Before you begin to write, using your completed outline as a guide, let's briefly look at what you're aiming to prepare.

• an opening or introduction
• the body where the bulk of the information is given
• and an ending (or summary).

Imagine your speech as a sandwich

If you think of a speech as a sandwich you'll get the idea.

The opening and ending are the slices of bread holding the filling (the major points or the body of your speech) together.

You can build yourself a simple sandwich with one filling (one big idea) or you could go gourmet and add up to three or, even five. The choice is yours.

But whatever you choose to serve, as a good cook, you need to consider who is going to eat it! And that's your audience.

So let's find out who they are before we do anything else. 

Step 2: Know who you are talking to

Understanding your audience.

Did you know a  good speech is never written from the speaker's point of view?  ( If you need to know more about why check out this page on  building rapport .)

Begin with the most important idea/point on your outline.

Consider HOW you can explain (show, tell) that to your audience in the most effective way for them to easily understand it.   

Writing from the audience's point of view

To help you write from an audience point of view, it's a good idea to identify either a real person or the type of person who is most likely to be listening to you.

Make sure you select someone who represents the "majority" of the people who will be in your audience. That is they are neither struggling to comprehend you at the bottom of your scale or light-years ahead at the top.

Now imagine they are sitting next to you eagerly waiting to hear what you're going to say. Give them a name, for example, Joe, to help make them real.

Ask yourself

• How do I need to tailor my information to meet Joe's needs? For example, do you tell personal stories to illustrate your main points? Absolutely! Yes. This is a very powerful technique. (Click storytelling in speeches to find out more.)
• What type or level of language is right for Joe as well as my topic? For example, if I use jargon (activity, industry or profession specific vocabulary) will it be understood?

Step 3: Writing as you speak

Writing oral language.

Write down what you want to say about your first main point as if you were talking directly to Joe.

If it helps, say it all out loud before you write it down and/or record it.

Use the information below as a guide

(Click to download The Characteristics of Spoken Language  as a pdf.) 

You do not have to write absolutely everything you're going to say down * but you do need to write down, or outline, the sequence of ideas to ensure they are logical and easily followed.

Remember too, to explain or illustrate your point with examples from your research. 

( * Tip: If this is your first speech the safety net of having everything written down could be just what you need. It's easier to recover from a patch of jitters when you have a word by word manuscript than if you have either none, or a bare outline. Your call!)

Step 4: Checking tone and language

The focus of this step is re-working what you've done in Step 2 and 3.

You identified who you were talking to (Step 2) and in Step 3, wrote up your first main point.  Is it right? Have you made yourself clear?  Check it.

How well you complete this step depends on how well you understand the needs of the people who are going to listen to your speech.

Please do not assume because you know what you're talking about the person (Joe) you've chosen to represent your audience will too. Joe is not a mind-reader!

How to check what you've prepared

• Check the "tone" of your language . Is it right for the occasion, subject matter and your audience?
• Check the length of your sentences. You need short sentences. If they're too long or complicated you risk losing your listeners.

Check for jargon too. These are industry, activity or group exclusive words.

For instance take the phrase: authentic learning . This comes from teaching and refers to connecting lessons to the daily life of students. Authentic learning is learning that is relevant and meaningful for students. If you're not a teacher you may not understand the phrase.

The use of any vocabulary requiring insider knowledge needs to be thought through from the audience perspective. Jargon can close people out.

• Read what you've written out loud. If it flows naturally, in a logical manner, continue the process with your next main idea. If it doesn't, rework.

We use whole sentences and part ones, and we mix them up with asides or appeals e.g. "Did you get that? Of course you did. Right...Let's move it along. I was saying ..."

Click for more about the differences between spoken and written language .

And now repeat the process

Repeat this process for the remainder of your main ideas.

Because you've done the first one carefully, the rest should follow fairly easily.

Step 5: Use transitions

Providing links or transitions between main ideas.

Between each of your main ideas you need to provide a bridge or pathway for your audience. The clearer the pathway or bridge, the easier it is for them to make the transition from one idea to the next.

If your speech contains more than three main ideas and each is building on the last, then consider using a "catch-up" or summary as part of your transitions.

Is your speech being evaluated? Find out exactly what aspects you're being assessed on using this standard speech evaluation form

Link/transition examples

A link can be as simple as:

"We've explored one scenario for the ending of Block Buster 111, but let's consider another. This time..."

What follows this transition is the introduction of Main Idea Two.

Here's a summarizing link/transition example:

"We've ended Blockbuster 111 four ways so far. In the first, everybody died. In the second, everybody died BUT their ghosts remained to haunt the area. In the third, one villain died. His partner reformed and after a fight-out with the hero, they both strode off into the sunset, friends forever. In the fourth, the hero dies in a major battle but is reborn sometime in the future.

And now what about one more? What if nobody died? The fifth possibility..."

Go back through your main ideas checking the links. Remember Joe as you go. Try each transition or link out loud and really listen to yourself. Is it obvious? Easily followed?

Keep them if they are clear and concise.

For more about transitions (with examples) see Andrew Dlugan's excellent article, Speech Transitions: Magical words and Phrases .

Step 6: The end of your speech

The ideal ending is highly memorable . You want it to live on in the minds of your listeners long after your speech is finished. Often it combines a call to action with a summary of major points.

Example speech endings

Example 1: The desired outcome of a speech persuading people to vote for you in an upcoming election is that they get out there on voting day and do so. You can help that outcome along by calling them to register their support by signing a prepared pledge statement as they leave.

"We're agreed we want change. You can help us give it to you by signing this pledge statement as you leave. Be part of the change you want to see!

Example 2: The desired outcome is increased sales figures. The call to action is made urgent with the introduction of time specific incentives.

"You have three weeks from the time you leave this hall to make that dream family holiday in New Zealand yours. Can you do it? Will you do it? The kids will love it. Your wife will love it. Do it now!"

How to figure out the right call to action

A clue for working out what the most appropriate call to action might be, is to go back to your original purpose for giving the speech.

• Was it to motivate or inspire?
• Was it to persuade to a particular point of view?
• Was it to share specialist information?
• Was it to celebrate a person, a place, time or event?

Ask yourself what you want people to do as a result of having listened to your speech.

For more about ending speeches

Visit this page for more about how to end a speech effectively . You'll find two additional types of speech endings with examples.

Write and test

Write your ending and test it out loud. Try it out on a friend, or two. Is it good? Does it work?

Step 7: The introduction

Once you've got the filling (main ideas) the linking and the ending in place, it's time to focus on the introduction.

The introduction comes last as it's the most important part of your speech. This is the bit that either has people sitting up alert or slumped and waiting for you to end. It's the tone setter!

What makes a great speech opening?

Ideally you want an opening that makes listening to you the only thing the 'Joes' in the audience want to do.

You want them to forget they're hungry or that their chair is hard or that their bills need paying.

The way to do that is to capture their interest straight away. You do this with a "hook".

Hooks to catch your audience's attention

Hooks come in as many forms as there are speeches and audiences. Your task is work out what specific hook is needed to catch your audience.

Go back to the purpose. Why are you giving this speech?

Once you have your answer, consider your call to action. What do you want the audience to do, and, or take away, as a result of listening to you?

Next think about the imaginary or real person you wrote for when you were focusing on your main ideas.

Choosing the best hook

• Is it humor?
• Would shock tactics work?
• Is it a rhetorical question?
• Is it formality or informality?
• Is it an outline or overview of what you're going to cover, including the call to action?
• Or is it a mix of all these elements?

A hook example

Here's an example from a fictional political speech. The speaker is lobbying for votes. His audience are predominately workers whose future's are not secure.

"How's your imagination this morning? Good? (Pause for response from audience) Great, I'm glad. Because we're going to put it to work starting right now.

I want you to see your future. What does it look like? Are you happy? Is everything as you want it to be? No? Let's change that. We could do it. And we could do it today.

At the end of this speech you're going to be given the opportunity to change your world, for a better one ...

No, I'm not a magician. Or a simpleton with big ideas and precious little commonsense. I'm an ordinary man, just like you. And I have a plan to share!"

And then our speaker is off into his main points supported by examples. The end, which he has already foreshadowed in his opening, is the call to vote for him.

Prepare several hooks

Experiment with several openings until you've found the one that serves your audience, your subject matter and your purpose best.

For many more examples of speech openings go to: how to write a speech introduction . You'll find 12 of the very best ways to start a speech.

That completes the initial seven steps towards writing your speech. If you've followed them all the way through, congratulations, you now have the text of your speech!

Although you might have the words, you're still a couple of steps away from being ready to deliver them. Both of them are essential if you want the very best outcome possible. They are below. Please take them.

Step 8: Checking content and timing

This step pulls everything together.

Check once, check twice, check three times & then once more!

Go through your speech really carefully.

On the first read through check you've got your main points in their correct order with supporting material, plus an effective introduction and ending.

On the second read through check the linking passages or transitions making sure they are clear and easily followed.

On the third reading check your sentence structure, language use and tone.

Double, triple check the timing

Now go though once more.

This time read it aloud slowly and time yourself.

If it's too long for the time allowance you've been given make the necessary cuts.

Start by looking at your examples rather than the main ideas themselves. If you've used several examples to illustrate one principal idea, cut the least important out.

Also look to see if you've repeated yourself unnecessarily or, gone off track. If it's not relevant, cut it.

Repeat the process, condensing until your speech fits the required length, preferably coming in just under your time limit.

You can also find out how approximately long it will take you to say the words you have by using this very handy words to minutes converter . It's an excellent tool, one I frequently use. While it can't give you a precise time, it does provide a reasonable estimate.

Step 9: Rehearsing your speech

And NOW you are finished with writing the speech, and are ready for REHEARSAL .

Please don't be tempted to skip this step. It is not an extra thrown in for good measure. It's essential.

The "not-so-secret" secret of successful speeches combines good writing with practice, practice and then, practicing some more.

Go to how to practice public speaking and you'll find rehearsal techniques and suggestions to boost your speech delivery from ordinary to extraordinary.

The Quick How to Write a Speech Checklist

Before you begin writing you need:.

• Your speech OUTLINE with your main ideas ranked in the order you're going to present them. (If you haven't done one complete this 4 step sample speech outline . It will make the writing process much easier.)
• Your RESEARCH
• You also need to know WHO you're speaking to, the PURPOSE of the speech and HOW long you're speaking for

The basic format

• the body where you present your main ideas

Split your time allowance so that you spend approximately 70% on the body and 15% each on the introduction and ending.

How to write the speech

• Write your main ideas out incorporating your examples and research
• Link them together making sure each flows in a smooth, logical progression
• Write your ending, summarizing your main ideas briefly and end with a call for action
• Write your introduction considering the 'hook' you're going to use to get your audience listening
• An often quoted saying to explain the process is: Tell them what you're going to tell them (Introduction) Tell them (Body of your speech - the main ideas plus examples) Tell them what you told them (The ending)

TEST before presenting. Read aloud several times to check the flow of material, the suitability of language and the timing.

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