Question 1

Distinguish between captive and voluntary audience members. Provide an example of each, and explain why it is important for a speaker to recognize whether his or her audience is captive or voluntary.

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Question 2

Discuss the criteria for composing a specific purpose statement. Using the thesis statement, "Insomnia can be caused by stress, diet, and pre-bedtime habits," provide an appropriate specific purpose statement. Your answer should demonstrate an understanding of the various guidelines discussed in the text.

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Question 3

Why is group membership an important demographic characteristic associated with audience analysis? What groups do your classmates belong to? How can you tailor your speech to fit the groups your classmates are a part of?

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Question 4

You've been assigned a five-minute persuasive speech on the topic of your choosing, although it must represent a controversial subject. You will be delivering this speech to your communication class and have the opportunity to gather information about your audience before developing your speech. First, provide a specific purpose statement for your intended topic. Then using the guidelines discussed in the text, design a brief (5 to 10 question) questionnaire to help you gain information about your audience.

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Question 5

The general purpose of a speech is usually to perform one of three overlapping functions: to inform, to persuade, or to entertain. Briefly define each type, and using the general topic of "Careers," provide an example of an appropriate speech title for each.

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Question 6

Summarize four general strategies for selecting an appropriate topic.

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Question 7

Discuss strategies you could use to gather information about your audience. For your upcoming speech, which strategy do you think will be most useful?

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Question 8

Why is cultural or ethnic background an important demographic characteristic associated with audience analysis? What could happen if a speaker does not consider the cultural or ethnic background of an audience?

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Question 9

You've been assigned a three-minute informative speech on a topic of your choosing. Explain at least three different methods you might use to begin the topic selection process.

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Question 10

What is psychological analysis? What types of information can be provided to the speaker using this type of analysis?

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Quiz 8: Selecting a Topic and Connecting to the Audience