COMM 15000: Informative & Persuasive Speeches  

The purpose of this guide is to assist you in locating information for informative and/or  persuasive speeches.

Click the tabs across the top of the page to learn about searching for different types of resources. 

To access the Salem Campus Library web site, try one of these options:

1. Click here.
   
2. Go to the Columbiana County Campus webpage at http://www.col.kent.edu.  From the "Academics" tab choose "Library at Salem"
   
3. Salem Campus Library Guide

Other Library URLs:

1. University Libraries web page click here
   
2. KentLINK, click here..  

Information about Off-Campus Access to Library Resources 

Informative speeches typically seek to share knowledge and information about objects, processes, events, or concepts.

In a persuasive speech, a speaker

• Takes a position on an issue
• Uses arguments to convince an audience
• Understands the audience
• Knows the various viewpoints on an issue
• Presents information and facts in support of the argument
• Anticipates objections to the argument.

 Remember, your persuasive point must be debatable.  You want to change people's minds and/or moticate them to act.

Opposing Viewpoints and CQ Researcher are online resources that can give you an overview of a topic,and the issues rinvolved. They can also suggest arguments to be made.Click the Finding Articles tab to access these resources. 

Research enables you to become more knowledgeable about a subject.  For a persuasive speech, it can help you understand the issues and find support for your perspective. It can also help you to understand your audience's point of view, anticipate counter-arguments, and find strategies that will persuade them.   

Do additional research to find the information that best makes your case.  Different arguments require different kinds of support. 

Send library-related questions to Salem Campus Library staff by e-mail, or take advantage of the online reference services listed below. The Library's direct phone number is 330-337-4213. 

Lilith Kunkel
Library Director
Associate Professor, University Libraries
330 337-4215 / Campus 74251
lkunkel@kent.edu

Maegan Richards
Senior Library Assistant
330 337-4211 / Campus 74211
mrichar4@kent.edu