10.1: Speaking to Inform

Basic Principles of Public Speaking

Informative speaking is the art of clearly and effectively sharing knowledge with an audience. Unlike persuasive speaking, the goal is not to convince others but to educate them on a topic using facts, examples, and explanations. Whether you're explaining how to make a delicious quesabirria taco or describing how a electronic music producer uses chord progression, drum beats, and synthesizers to craft an catchy dance song, your job is to make complex ideas easy to understand. In today’s world, informative speaking happens everywhere, from TED Talks on YouTube to explainer videos on TikTok. Strong informative speakers use organization, clarity, and credible sources to help their audience learn something new. For example, popular science communicators like Bill Nye and Emily Graslie make science accessible by combining accurate information with relatable examples. Research shows that clear communication improves understanding and retention of information, especially when visual aids and storytelling are used (Reynolds, 2019). Mastering informative speaking is also a key part of becoming a confident public speaker. Whether you're presenting a class project, leading a student club, or preparing for a career, being able to speak clearly and confidently is a skill that opens many doors. Public speaking isn't just for politicians or actors, it’s a vital tool for everyday life and future success.

Informative Goals of Public Speaking

The main goal of informative public speaking is to help the audience gain a clearer understanding of a topic without trying to influence their opinions. Good informative speakers focus on four key goals: to clarify, explain, describe, and demonstrate (Lucas, 2020). For instance, a student might give a speech on how a Las Vegas casino or Disneyland theme park attracts their guests, breaking down their hidden business strategies. Another example could be a podcast host explaining the science behind dreams and what it tells us about our subconscious mind. Informative speaking is also common in workplaces, such as when a police officer explains how to deescalate a tense situation or a new father shows the audience how to change a diaper. Research shows that audiences learn better when information is presented with structure, repetition, and visual support (Mayer, 2009). Additionally, using real-world examples can help listeners connect new information to things they already know (Lucas, 2020). A well-crafted informative speech helps people build knowledge and make informed decisions, whether in a classroom, on social media, or during everyday conversations. These goals remind us that informative speaking is not just about giving facts, it's about making those facts meaningful and easy to understand.

Types of Informative Speaking

Informative speaking can be broken into three main types: speech of description, speech of demonstration, and speech of definition. A speech of description helps the audience visualize something, such as a place, person, or event. For example, a student interested in the animation of Hayao Miyazaki, could describe what it’s like to visit Ghibli Park in Japan. A speech of demonstration shows how something works or how to do something, like showing the audience how to use breath control and grounding techniques when having a panic attack or experiencing high levels of anxiety. A speech of definition helps the audience understand a complex idea, such as defining what cryptocurrency is and how blockchain technology functions. Each type of informative speech serves a unique purpose but all aim to expand the audience's understanding of the topic. In today’s digital age, these skills are especially relevant, since people often share information through videos, presentations, and social media posts. Being able to clearly explain or describe something is a valuable skill in school, the workplace, and everyday life. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (2023), oral communication is one of the top skills employers seek in new hires. Learning to organize and present information effectively can also build confidence and improve critical thinking (Lucas, 2020). By practicing all three types of informative speaking, students can become more thoughtful, effective communicators.

Examples 10.1

Speech of Description

Topic: The Amazon Rainforest
Purpose: To describe the physical and ecological features of the Amazon.

Outline:

1. Location and size of the rainforest
2. Types of plants and animals found there
3. The climate and environmental importance of the region

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Speech of Demonstration

Topic: How to Make a Healthy Smoothie
Purpose: To show the steps for making a nutritious smoothie at home.

Outline:

• I. Choosing ingredients (fruits, vegetables, and proteins)

• II. Using a blender safely

• III. Tips for customizing smoothies for different needs (energy, protein, etc.)

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Speech of Definition

Topic: What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
Purpose: To explain the concept and relevance of AI.

Outline:

• I. Define AI and its key components (e.g., machine learning)

• II. Common uses of AI today (Siri, ChatGPT, recommendation systems)

• III. Ethical and future considerations

Key Takeaways

• Informative speaking is about clearly explaining a topic to help others understand, not to change their opinions.
• There are three main types: description, demonstration, and definition, each helping the audience learn in different ways.
• This skill is useful in everyday life, school, and careers, especially since clear communication is one of the top abilities employers look for (National Association of Colleges and Employers, 2023). 

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Exercises

• Students pair up and take 2 minutes each to teach their partner something they know well (e.g., how to make ramen, how to use a study app, or how to change a bike tire). Practice clear, short explanation using demonstration or description.
• Students choose an app they use often (e.g., Duolingo, Grammarly, Spotify) and give a short demonstration speech showing how it works and why they like it. Practice demonstration skills using something relevant to their lives.
• Students go around the room (or in small groups) sharing a 60-second speech on their favorite book, show, hobby, or meme, then explain it so others understand what it is and why they love it. Practice concise speaking and connecting information to passion.