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Discussion 4: Creating the Components of an Outline
by Vanessa Dunkley - Monday, 27 January 2025, 6:55 AM
Number of replies: 0
Effective Introductory and Concluding Techniques for a Speech on Budgeting

Choosing efficient opening and closing strategies in giving a speech regarding budgeting and financial management to first-year college students is very important to capture this audience's attention and deliver meaningful final words that can impact the audience’s perception regarding the topic being discussed. Using a startling statistic or anecdote would be most effective for the introduction. For the introduction, I would recommend using attention-getting techniques: a startling statistic about student debt or financial stress among college students, followed by a relevant personal anecdote demonstrating the real-world impact of poor budgeting habits. As illustrated by Beebe & Beebe (2020), starting with statistics can help capture the listener’s attention by pointing out the relevance of the issue at hand, while using their own stories can help acquire trust from the audience. For instance, starting the speech with a question like “Did you know that the average college graduate in the U.S. leaves school with nearly $30,000 in student loan debt?” will draw the attention of the audience and place much emphasis on the necessity of creating a budget (Beebe & Beebe, 2020). On the other hand, describing one’s own experience or that of a fellow student who initially was a poor money manager but changed for the better and started to budget would be more natural, informal, and friendly.

The speech's conclusion should include a call to action and a memorable closing statement. Summary points like setting realistic financial goals, tracking costs, and prioritizing needs over wants emphasize the speech's core concepts. A call to action, such as downloading a budgeting tool or making a monthly financial plan, pushes the viewer to act after this summary. An encouraging quotation or forward-thinking statement can create a lasting impression. The ending statement, “Budgeting is not about limitation; it is about freedom—freedom to pursue your goals without financial stress,” is hopeful and optimistic (Beebe & Beebe, 2020). Adding a call for participation and explicitly encouraging the students to practice one of the depicted budgeting methods the following week would be most helpful. This makes it easy to establish an instant connection and thus creates the need to use the knowledge gained. Besides, it is essential to make a firm recommendation at the end of the speech to help the audience understand the concept of continuing healthy financial behaviour, especially during college years, to motivate them to achieve a better life. In the same regard, Beebe and Beebe (2020) indicate that conclusions should feature content summarizing the passage while encouraging action by the audience on the content presented. These strategies work because they match the audience's interests and circumstances. First-year College students are likelier to listen to a lecture that addresses their issues and offers solutions. With an engaging introduction and inspiring conclusion, the speech can inform and excite the audience.

1 answer

I completely agree with Vanessa on the significance of opening and closing techniques in a speech about budgeting for first-year college students. Capturing the audience’s attention right from the start is crucial, and using a surprising statistic about student debt is a compelling way to do that. A statement like “Did you know that nearly 70% of college graduates have student loans?” can really set the stage, making the audience aware of the pressing issue at hand. This approach not only highlights the relevance of budgeting but also encourages students to reflect on their own financial situations.

Additionally, sharing a personal story about my own budgeting challenges could enhance my connection with the audience. It’s important to present budgeting not just as a theoretical concept but as something relatable and actionable. I can think of a time in college when I struggled to manage my expenses, and sharing that experience may help students see the practical implications of good budgeting habits.

As for the conclusion, I agree that including a call to action is essential. Encouraging students to download a budgeting app or set up a financial plan can empower them to take control of their finances. I also like the idea of wrapping up with an inspiring quote about budgeting being a path to freedom rather than limitation. Something like, “Budgeting is your ticket to financial freedom” could resonate well with them.

Overall, the effectiveness of any speech, particularly on a topic as crucial as budgeting, hinges on how well it speaks to the specific needs and concerns of the audience. By intertwining attention-grabbing elements in the introduction and motivating ideals into the conclusion, I’m confident that I can create a meaningful impact.