Reading historical speeches develops a foundation of understanding for what makes an effective speech, analyzing for rhetorical appeals, structure and style.

Listening to public figures, colleagues or classmates deliver speeches develops understanding for the elements of effective public speaking, such as pace, eye contact and tone. Learning to offer specific, constructive feedback strengthens this understanding and develops skills for civil classroom conversations.

Speeches by their nature are meant to be spoken aloud. Students and teachers alike “walk the walk” by learning to perform speeches and become familiar with identifying and crafting their words for specific audiences.

As teachers become more comfortable with their skills for teaching oratory, many are interested in students learning to write their own speeches. Students understand the importance of speech on a deeper level, as they strengthen their own skills to write and speak about issues that matter to them.