Lesson 3: Speech Writing

🟦 Introduction

Have you ever stood in front of a class or crowd to speak? Whether it’s a debate, school assembly, or prize-giving event, your words need structure and impact. That’s what speech writing is all about.

WASSCE may ask you to:

• Write a speech for a specific audience and occasion

• Use persuasive and engaging language

• Organize ideas clearly with an introduction, body, and conclusion

• Sound natural — as if you’re speaking directly to a crowd

In this lesson, you’ll learn how to write a speech that sounds confident, convincing, and clear — just like a real speaker.

🟩 Key Concepts and Explanations

1. What Is a Speech?

A speech is a piece of writing meant to be delivered aloud. Unlike an essay, a speech should feel personal and engaging — as if you’re speaking directly to the audience. It combines information with inspiration.

2. Structure of a Good Speech

3. Sample Speech Format

Let’s say you are writing a speech as school prefect, addressing new students at orientation.

4. Tone and Language Tips

5. Common Speech Topics in WASSCE

• As school prefect, addressing new students

• Giving a farewell speech at graduation

• A campaign speech for election

• A speech to create awareness about health, discipline, or the environment

• A welcome speech at an event

🟨 Practice Exercises

✏️ Exercise 1: Identify the Speech Elements

Which of the following sentences would likely appear in a speech?

A. “In conclusion, let us work together for a better future.”
B. “It is hereby stated that all applications must be submitted.”
C. “Dear classmates, have you ever felt left out at school?”
D. “This letter serves as an application for the position.”

✏️ Exercise 2: Rewrite as Speech Lines

Rewrite the following formal sentence as if speaking to an audience:

“Students are advised to maintain discipline within the school premises.”

✏️ Exercise 3: Write It Yourself

Write a speech to be delivered on your school’s Clean Environment Day, encouraging students to keep the school tidy and protect the environment.

(Length: 150–200 words)

✅ Answers and Explanations

Exercise 1: Speech Elements

✅ A – Typical speech conclusion
❌ B – Official/formal writing (e.g., memo or notice)
✅ C – Rhetorical question; speech style
❌ D – Letter style

Exercise 2: Rewritten Line

“Let’s all remember to stay disciplined and keep our school environment safe and respectful!”

Exercise 3: (Students’ answers will vary. Key: clear structure, friendly tone, motivational content.)

🔁 Recap

Today, you learned:

• What makes speech writing different from essays or letters

• How to structure a speech with introduction, body, and conclusion

• How to write in a way that sounds like real speaking

• Tips to engage, inspire, and connect with your audience

🪞 Reflection Prompt

Think of an event in your school where you had to listen to a speech. What made it memorable or boring?
Now, write two sentences you would say at the start of your own speech to grab attention.