Strategies of Effective Argumentation Speech

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Three Main Approaches of Persuasion

In a nutshell, these are:

1. Ethos — credibility and character
2. Pathos — emotional bond with your listeners
3. Logos — logical and rational argument

Ethos-Based Argumentation

Ethos-based argumentation is a persuasive method that relies on the credibility of the speaker in order to convince the audience. An effective speaker will demonstrate their expertise in the subject matter, building trust with the audience and showing that their opinion is worth considering. Furthermore, they may also cite sources that have already established credibility, such as studies or experts in the field. This approach relies on the rhetorical appeal of ethos to build a strong argument.

Pathos-Based Argumentation

Pathos-based argumentation is a persuasive method that relies on an emotional connection with the audience. This approach uses language and stories that evoke an emotional response in the audience, creating a connection between the speaker and the audience and ultimately leading to a more successful argument. By speaking to the heart of the audience, rather than simply presenting facts and figures, a speaker can create a more powerful and effective argument.

Logos-Based Argumentation

Logos-based argumentation is a persuasive method that relies on logical and rational arguments. This approach involves presenting facts and figures, as well as logical reasoning and analysis, to support the speaker’s point of view. It is important to be able to provide evidence and data to back up the argument, as well as to make sure that one’s conclusions are logically sound. This approach relies on the power of logical argumentation to build a strong and convincing case for the speaker’s point of view.

Strategies

1. Prepare your speech. Make sure to master your presentation and practice as much as you can, learn everything there is to know about your topic.
2. Know your audience. Remember that you cannot persuade a group of people if you do not know how to appeal to them. Do you research on your audience (Audience Analysis) and know what they like and dislike, what interests them, what they value, what they know about the topic of your presentation.
3. Exude confidence. When you give your presentation confidently, you will give me a “Trust me, I know what I am talking about” vibe and your audience will be more likely to trust you. It will be much easier to persuade an audience that trusts you.
4. Make eye contact. When giving your presentation, make sure to make eye contact with your audience. This will help you to connect with them and will also demonstrate confidence. Additionally, make sure to pause and allow the audience to ask questions and engage with your argument. This will show that you value their opinion and that you are open to dialogue. Finally, be sure to end your presentation with a strong conclusion that summarizes the main points and reinforces your argument.
5. Combine Ethos, Pathos, and Logos. When you give your speech, appeal to your audience’s ethics, morals, and emotions using logic and reasoning.

Effective Non-Verbal Communication

What is Non-Verbal Communication?

Non-verbal communication is a form of communication that does not use words or language, but instead utilizes body language, facial expressions, and gestures to convey a message. Non-verbal communication can be used to enhance verbal communication and add emphasis to a message. It is important to be aware of non-verbal communication, as it can be used to add meaning to a verbal message and help create an emotional connection with the audience. Additionally, non-verbal communication can be used to emphasize or add emphasis to a message, as well as to demonstrate confidence and show respect for the audience.

Types of Non-Verbal Communication

1. Kinesics | Kinesics is a form of non-verbal communication that involves body movements and gestures, such as facial expressions, hand gestures, and posture. By using kinesics, a speaker can emphasize a point and create an emotional connection with the audience. Additionally, it can be used to show empathy, express interest, and demonstrate confidence.
2. Proxemics | Proxemics is the study of how people use space to communicate. It is the study of how people use physical distance to communicate with each other, as well as how they use physical space to establish relationships. Proxemics can be used to express intimacy, dominance, and respect, and can be an effective way to communicate with an audience.
3. Haptics | Haptics is the study of how people use touch to communicate. Touch is a powerful form of communication, as it can be used to express feelings of comfort, love, and empathy. A speaker can use haptics to create an emotional connection with their audience, as well as to demonstrate respect and to emphasize points. Additionally, touch can be used to create a feeling of trust, which can help to make an argument more effective.
4. Artifacts | Artifacts are objects that can be used to communicate non-verbally, such as clothing, jewelry, and other items. These items can be used to communicate a variety of messages, including social status, membership in a group, or other values. Additionally, artifacts can be used to emphasize a point or to add emphasis to a message. For example, a speaker may use a prop or an object to draw attention to a certain point in their speech, or to emphasize the importance of a particular argument. In this way, artifacts can be an effective way to communicate with an audience.
5. Paralanguage | Paralanguage is the study of how people use vocal elements to communicate non-verbally. This includes elements such as the volume, pitch, and speed of one’s voice, as well as pauses, intonation, and other vocal elements. It is important to be aware of how these elements can be used to communicate a message, as they can be used to add emphasis or to create an emotional connection with an audience. Additionally, paralanguage can be used to demonstrate respect or to show confidence in an argument.

• Articulation — means how your total vocal process works.
• Pronunciation — pronounce each word, avoid slang, except to make a point, and do not slur your words. Avoid things like, “you know”.
• Pitch — refers to the highs and lows of your voice. Whatever you do, avoid a monotone.
• Speed — your pace is an important variable to control. Between 140–160 word per minute, or just make sure that you are not going to slow or too fast. Be in the Goldilocks Zone in a way that your audience is comfortable of your pace.
• Pause — caesura; is a critical persuasive tool when you want to emphasize words.
• Quality — is gauged by the overall impact that your voice has on your listeners.