Beginning and Ending

Everyone knows that the hardest part (other than delivering) in writing a speech is writing the beginning and ending it properly. Being able to get the attention of the audience is the first goal, if no one is interested who will you speech be directed to? There are certain ways that are appropriate to begin a speech with. For example:

Start off with Humor- tell a funny story or a joke to get their attention but make sure that it is related to your speech

Begin with a brief story- this could be a personal story, why this subject is important to you, what changed your views on the subject, or just a story you feel is appropriate

Ask a rhetorical question- ask a question that will either allow the audience to question what they know or want to learn more about it.

Begin with a definition- say for example your speech is on cheating, the audience may have different definition for cheating so it's up to the speaker to state the definition and let them know what you are talking about

Begin with a startling statement- State a fact that will startle that audience, something that big that surprises that audience enough to want to hear more

Start with a quotation- Quoting someone shows that you have done your research. Also some quotes spark the audience's interest and they want to learn how the quote connects to your speech

That of course is to name a few. There are many ways to get the audience's attention, it's up to you how you want to do it without losing sight of the subject you are going to discuss. Along with Introductions there are also many ways that you could end the speech and once again get the attention from the audience.

Conclusions:
End with a Call to Action- Lead your speech to an action, challenge your audience to make a difference and take action for something they believe in

End with a Rhetorical question- by questioning the audience they will think about the questions you asked and remember your speech along with the message you are trying to give

End with a positive vision of the future- an example of this would be Martin Luther's "I have a Dream" speech. He envisions a better future for his children

End with a restatement of your central idea- remind the audience of why you are there

Beginning and ending speeches are sometimes difficult but always remember that there is a reason for your speech and no matter what at least one person will get something out of your speech.