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Special Occasion Speeches

Special events present special speaking opportunities. This manual provides instruction in giving toasts, speaking in praise/giving a eulogy, “roasting” someone, and presenting and accepting awards.

1. Mastering the Toast

Time: 2 – 3 minutes
Objectives:
  • Recognize the characteristics of a toast.
  • Present a toast honoring an occasion or person.

2. Speaking in Praise

Time: 5 – 7 minutes
Objectives:
  • Prepare a speech praising or honoring someone, either living or dead.
  • Address five areas concerning the individual and his/her accomplishments.
  • Include anecdotes illustrating points within the speech.

3. The Roast

Time: 3 – 5 minutes
Objectives:
  • Poke fun at a particular individual in a good-natured way.
  • Adapt and personalize humorous material from other sources.
  • Deliver jokes and humorous stories effectively.

4. Presenting an Award

Time: 3 – 4 minutes
Objectives:
  • Present an award with dignity and grace.
  • Acknowledge the contributions of the recipient.

5. Accepting an Award

Time: 5 – 7 minutes
Objectives:
  • Accept an award with dignity, grace and sincerity.
  • Acknowledge the presenting organization.