how to write speech igcse

10 BEST WAYS TO WRITE A SPEECH: IGCSE ENGLISH

• Author: Litera Centre
• Updated: June 22, 2023
• Language: English

IGCSE – ENGLISH:

IGCSE – English, part of the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) curriculum, is a comprehensive English language program designed for students aged 14 to 16. It aims to develop essential language skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening while also fostering critical thinking and analytical abilities. The IGCSE English curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including literature, language analysis, and communication. Students engage in various language activities, explore literary texts, and develop their writing skills through different genres. IGCSE English provides a solid foundation for further academic pursuits, as well as effective communication in real-life situations.

Speech in IGCSE?

In the context of the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) exam, a speech is a form of oral communication that requires students to present a prepared topic or theme clearly, structured, and engagingly. It allows students to showcase their communication skills, critical thinking, and ability to convey their ideas effectively to an audience. A speech in IGCSE exam typically follows a specific format: an introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction captures the audience’s attention, establishes the purpose of the speech, and introduces the main points that will be discussed. The body paragraphs delve into these points, providing supporting evidence, examples, and arguments. Finally, the conclusion summarizes the key points and leaves a lasting impression on the audience. The IGCSE exam assesses various aspects of a speech, including content, structure, language, delivery, and overall impact. Students must demonstrate their ability to articulate their thoughts, organize their ideas coherently, use persuasive language and techniques, and engage the audience effectively. Moreover, students should exhibit confidence, clarity of expression, and an understanding of the audience’s needs and interests. Preparing for a speech in IGCSE exam involves extensive research, planning, writing, and practice. Students must select a relevant and compelling topic, gather supporting materials, craft a well-structured speech, and refine their delivery through repeated rehearsals. By mastering the art of delivering a powerful speech, students can excel in the IGCSE exam and develop valuable communication skills that will benefit them in various aspects of their academic and professional lives.

Importance Of Writing Good Speech in IGCSE:

Writing a good speech for the IGCSE exam holds immense importance. It is an opportunity to showcase not only one’s knowledge and understanding of the subject but also their communication and presentation skills. A well-crafted speech captivates the audience, effectively delivers key points, and leaves a lasting impact. It demonstrates the ability to organize thoughts coherently, utilize persuasive techniques, and engage the listeners. A good speech can elevate an individual’s performance, earning them higher marks and distinguishing them from their peers. Moreover, it cultivates essential skills like critical thinking, research, and public speaking, which are invaluable in academic and professional settings.

Speech, besides, is a powerful tool for influencing opinions and promoting change. Public speaking, for instance, has been used throughout history to rally crowds, inspire movements, and advocate for social justice. Individuals can raise awareness about important issues by delivering persuasive speeches, challenging prevailing norms, and igniting positive societal transformations. The impact of influential speeches can be seen in historical figures such as Martin Luther King Jr ., whose “I Have a Dream” speech fueled the Civil Rights Movement. One of the most iconic speeches in Indian history, Jawaharlal Nehru’s “Tryst with Destiny ” emphasizes the significance of the historical moment and outlines the country’s vision for the future. Similarly, “Quit India” by Mahatma Gandhi, and “Tryst with the Past” by B.R. Ambedkar are a few examples of exemplary speeches.

10 Best Ways To Write A Speech in IGCSE:

Whether you are presenting to your classmates or in front of an examiner, a well-crafted speech can leave a lasting impression. To help you excel in your IGCSE exam,

Here are the 10 best ways to write a good speech for IGCSE English:

1. Understanding the Purpose:

Before you start writing, clearly understand the purpose of your speech. Are you informing, persuading, or entertaining your audience? Identifying the purpose will guide your speech’s tone, structure, and content.

2. Knowing the Audience:

Tailor your speech to suit your audience’s interests, knowledge, and expectations. Consider their age, background, and specific characteristics that influence how they receive and respond to your message.

3. A Captivating Opening:

Grabbing attention from the beginning. Begin with a powerful quote, an intriguing question, a personal anecdote, or a thought-provoking statement. This helps engage your listeners and makes them eager to hear more.

4. Structure Of Speech:

Organize your speech logically and coherently. Use a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a strong conclusion structures the speech organically. Each section should flow smoothly, transitioning from one idea to the next.

5.  A Strong Thesis Statement:

The thesis statement of your speech is its central idea or the main argument. Clearly state this in your introduction, previewing the key points you will discuss throughout your speech.

6. Persuasive Language and Techniques:

To effectively convey your message, use persuasive language and techniques such as rhetorical questions, anecdotes, statistics, and emotional appeals. These devices will enhance your speech and make it more compelling.

7. Support Your Points with Evidence:

Support your statements with credible evidence, examples, and facts. This will add credibility to your speech and make your arguments more persuasive. Use reputable sources and cite them appropriately.

8. Vivid Language and Imagery:

Make your speech memorable by using vivid language and imagery. Paint a picture with your words, appealing to the senses and evoking emotions. This builds connectivity between you and your audience with your message on a deeper level.

9.  Practice Delivery and Timing:

After writing your speech, practice delivering it aloud. Pay attention to your tone, pace, and body language. Aim for a natural and confident delivery. Time yourself to ensure that your speech fits within the allocated time limit.

10. Craft a Powerful Conclusion:

End your speech with a strong and impactful conclusion. Summarize your key points, restate your thesis, and leave your audience with a lasting impression. Consider ending with a memorable quote, a call to action, or a thought-provoking question.

Excel in Your IGCSE English Exam with Litera Centre:

Master the art of persuasive writing:.

Do you want to excel in your IGCSE English exam and master the art of writing persuasive speeches? Litera Centre will support you every step of the way.

Comprehensive IGCSE English Program:

Our comprehensive IGCSE English program, aimed at students aged 14 to 16, focuses on:

Personalized Coaching:

Our expert tutors will help you with a range of language activities, explore literary texts, and refine your written expression. Preparing for the language component of the IGCSE exam? We offer personalized coaching to help you deliver well-structured, engaging speeches that captivate your audience.

Expert Guidance:

Our experienced teachers will guide you from choosing an exciting topic to mastering delivery techniques. You’ll learn to:

• Structure Your Thoughts
• Use Persuasive Language
• Deliver Your Speech with Confidence and Clarity

Valuable Resources and Support:

By joining Litera Centre, you’ll gain access to valuable resources and support tailored to your needs. Our curriculum not only prepares you for academic success but also equips you with communication skills invaluable in real-life situations.

Take the First Step Towards Success:

Don’t miss this chance to improve your performance and excel in your IGCSE exam. Book a free demo class with Litera Centre today and take the first step towards achieving your goals!

Conclusion:

Writing a compelling speech requires careful thought and consideration. It is to be noted that writing a good speech requires careful planning, practice, and attention to detail. By following these 10 best ways, you can write a compelling speech that showcases your communication skills, knowledge, and ability to engage an audience. Remember to practice your delivery and be authentic in your delivery. With these strategies, one can be well-equipped to write an exceptional speech that will engage and move your audience. To ace the art of writing a good speech, head to our Litera Center IGCSE English curriculum and book a free demo class. Good luck with your IGCSE exam!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

WAIT BUT WHY ?

When your demo class is free , international baccalaureate tuition with top ib certified tutors.

• IB Tutors in India
• IB Tutors in Singapore
• IB Tutors in Malaysia
• IB Tutors in Bangladesh
• IB Tutors in Nepal
• IB Tutors in UAE
• IB Tutors in Bahrain
• IB Tutors in Saudi Arabia
• IB Tutors in Thailand
• IB Tutors in France
• IB Tutors in Netherlands
• IB Tutors in USA
• IB Tutors in Denmark
• IB Tutors in Spain
• IB Tutors in Oman
• IB Tutors in Qatar

IGCSE Tuition with Experienced Cambridge Certified IGCSE Tutors

• IGCSE Tutors in India
• IGCSE Tutors in Singapore
• IGCSE Tutors in Malaysia
• IGCSE Tutors in Bangladesh
• IGCSE Tutors in Canada
• IGCSE Tutors in Nepal
• IGCSE Tutors in Saudi Arabia
• IGCSE Tutors in UAE
• IGCSE Tutors in Bahrain
• IGCSE Tutors in United Kingdom
• IGCSE Tutors in Thailand
• IGCSE Tutors in France
• IGCSE Tutors in Netherlands
• IGCSE Tutors in USA
• IGCSE Tutors in Japan
• IGCSE Tutors in Denmark
• IGCSE Tutors in Spain
• IGCSE Tutors in Oman
• IGCSE Tutors in Qatar
• IGCSE Tutors in South Korea

AS/A Level Tuition with Experienced Cambridge Certified AS/A Level Tutors

• AS/A Level Tutors In UAE
• AS/A Level Tutors In Mauritius
• AS/A Level Tutors In Singapore
• AS/A Level Tutors In UK
• AS/A Level Tutors In USA
• AS/A Level Tutors In Spain
• AS/A Level Tutors In Malaysia
• AS/A Level Tutors In Thailand
• AS/A Level Tutors In Saudi Arabia
• AS/A Level Tutors In Hong Kong
• AS/A Level Tutors In Indonesia
• AS/A Level Tutors In Hungary

We bring you a world-class international (both Indian and expat) team of highly experienced and qualified faculty.

• IBDP Tuition
• IB MYP Tuition
• IGCSE Tuition
• IB Retake Tuition
• AS/A Level Tuition
• SAT Exam Prep
• Meet Our Experts
• Litera Fee Plan
• University Guidance

Quick Links

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Refund Policy
• Refer a Friend
• Referral Terms of Use
• Enrollment Form

Have Questions ?

• 011-43632823
• +918505898888
• [email protected]
• Noida, UP India

Copyright 2024. All rights reserved with  Litera Centre , part of Socratic Education powered by Socratic Education Pvt. Ltd.

Get Amazon Voucher $25

Refer a friend and earn Amazon Voucher Worth $25(or equivalent to your local currency)

10 Best Ways to Write a Speech - IGCSE English

What is a speech.

Speech is the delivery of a message to an audience via the spoken word. It is often used to persuade the audience to support an idea, or to explain/describe an interesting topic or event.

This question mostly appears in Paper 1 of your English Language and Literature question paper .

Features of Speech Writing

You will be given a reading booklet insert containing the passage for the speech writing. Read through the passage carefully. The adjacent question will be provided in the question paper booklet.

You would have to choose relevant points from the passage after having a thorough understanding of the question.

Now, convert the passage's selected points into your own words. After that, you can start putting the points together in a cohesive manner in the form of an effective speech.

Let’s take a look at how to convert the selected points from the passage into your own words.

“We could only see barren mountains despite walking for four hours. There were no other travellers on the mountain except a few lonely dwellings.”

"Four hours had passed, and all we could see were barren mountains. The route was devoid of other travellers; the only sign of human habitation was a couple of tiny, isolated dwellings."

Can you see how I modified the sentence structure and words from the highlighted section without altering the paragraph's meaning? This is how it's done; it's not easy at first, but with practise, it will become easier.

• A speech shouldn't be a stream of consciousness, it should rather be well planned out. It should seem effortless and smooth. Make sure that you bring out a strong sense of voice and use words that are simple yet impactful.

Let’s look at an example of an impactful and powerful speech from history and analyse it to understand better.

“we shall defend our Island, whatever the cost may be, we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender.”

Winston Churchill, 4 June, 1940

This speech was delivered by Winston Churchill in 1940 during adverse situations to inspire people to come together and fight on. If we take a closer look at the highlighted text we see repetitions of phrases and a rhyme scheme cleverly embedded into the speech. This evokes feelings of awe in us. We are automatically drawn to the articulation and our hearts pound in patriotism.

This is precisely the effect a speech should have on people. Your speech need not necessarily evoke awe but it should convey the message in an effective and efficient manner.

Always write your speech in the first person point of view . Since you are the person who is delivering the speech in front of an audience.

You may need to refer to the audience at times during your speech; in those situations, it is better to use the term we . Why, you may wonder, because it evokes a sense of unity rather than division. When giving a speech, this is a vital consideration. As seen in the example above, Churchill uses we repetitively thus inspiring the listeners. It unites the crowd and creates a sense of oneness in them.

Have clear topic sentences with separate ideas for each paragraph. It need not be mentioned but should have an idea what each paragraph should be about. This helps your speech be coherent and not mixed up.

Use informal language to connect with the audience, using high diction will create no effect in the minds of the audience. The message may be unclear, misconstrued or confusing.

Usage of emotive language, rhetorical questions, comparison are advisable. As seen in the example above Churchill has used emotive language via rhythm and repetition.

Keep the sentences short so you don’t deviate from the topic. This makes sure that the listener is following you and you don’t lose track of your sentence. It also ensures your sentence structure is perfect.

Here’s an Example:

Read Passage A in the insert and answer this question

You are the Head Guide, Chris (Peter’s boss). You are responsible for training the safari guides. When a group of new trainee guides arrives at the camp, you give a talk to prepare them for what lies ahead.

Write the words of your talk.

In your talk, you should:

• describe the range of attractions Idube Camp and the area around it have to offer and how these might appeal to guests
• explain what being a trainee guide is like – the kind of activities they will be asked to do and what they should and should not do as trainees
• suggest what makes a good safari guide, the challenges of the job and the personal qualities they will need to develop.

Welcome to Idube Camp! I hope you are excited for the new experience of the camp. There are many exciting things ready for you to explore, one of them is the safari drives where you can see dangerous animals in their habitat and how they interact with each other. Secondly, there will be guided walks where the safari guides will explain the surroundings and tell what you missed during the walk. Lastly, there are dinner nights with delicious food and service with socializing under the starlight. The place is decorated with lanterns.

Being a trainee guide one should remain calm at all times. You should always be the ones to lead the group. Trainees are also required to carry liquid drinks to Bush Camp. My advice to you is to never run whatever you do. Try to never forget this point as it is essential and crucial.

What makes a good safari guide are the little things which are often overlooked. The in-depth knowledge of trees, birds and insects will help you. You should also be aware of taking shortcuts and changing paths when required. There are also some challenges guides should overcome first of all, carrying cans when they happen to let go of the wheelbarrow. It is also important to know the different bird calls to know whether they are alarm calls against predators or you. This will help you in navigation and protection.

So, I hope you are excited to begin this journey with us. We welcome you to Camp Idube with all our hearts! Thank you!

Are you having trouble understanding these concepts? Do you want assistance from a subject matter expert? Here, at Vidyalai we help your child achieve the grade they aspire for. Our SMEs are trained and experienced tutors who will provide you with each and every help when required. We are just a click away. Request your first lesson now. . We guarantee 100% satisfaction on your first session, if you are not satisfied,the session will be absolutely free.

Whatmakesagoodspeech?

A speech is a planned and practised text that you will need to perform in front of other class members. It should be approximately two minutes, although your teacher will make this clear. Speech topics range from the more serious ‘Present a global issue affecting the planet in the twenty-first century’, or the light-hearted ‘Persuade the class to watch a film of your choice.’ No matter what the topic, you will need a clear message with a concise argument. It is no use shrugging your shoulders and saying ‘I don’t know.’ You will need to be proactive with your research and opinions.

Watch the following video on Michelle Obama:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-YYnz7JHVc

How well written is the speech?

How does she perform the speech?

Obama has clearly structured her speech. She has memorised the planned words.

• Use of pauses

Obama allows for audience reaction and response. It is is easy to fear pauses, but let the audience have time to consider the message of your speech. Note that she does not stutter or stumble over her words.

• Use of voice

Obama considers where the emotion in her voice should lie. As she is discussing her children, her voice sounds warmer and more emotional.

• Use of hand movement

Obama does not keep her hands still. She allows herself to show her emotion through her hand gestures. You need to keep still but allow yourself to express feeling.

How should you structure your speech?

You must structure your speech according to purpose and topic:

• Introduction - clearly state your view and
• Arguments - provide 3 clear arguments. They should all strengthen and build upon your introduction. Think of each argument as a hamburger:

Each detail should be well researched. Provide statistics for your audience that are useful and support your argument. Your ‘colourful vocabulary’ should adhere to the purpose of your speech.

• Conclusion - reiterate your argument clearly. Ensure you end with a strong finish.

What is Standard English?

There are two types of English: Standard English and non-Standard English. Standard English is widely considered to be the ‘correct’ form of the language, whilst the non-Standard form is a more informal form of the language.

Look at these two sentences:

• 2mrw I go 2 the cinema 4 my brthday.
• Tomorrow, I will go to the cinema for my birthday.

Which is Standard and which is non-Standard?

• 2mrw I go 2 cinema 4 brthday (non-Standard)
• Use of numbers instead of letters
• Incorrect spelling
• Use of tense is incorrect
• Lack of accurate grammar
• Lack of accurate punctuation
• Tomorrow, I will go to the cinema for my birthday (Standard)
• Letters are used
• Correct spelling
• Tense is correct
• Accurate grammar
• Accurate punctuation

It is incredibly important that the speech is written in Standard English, so that you sound professional and formal.

It’s important to practise your speech and not just use the tips for memorising:

• Use a video recorder or phone and record yourself. Watch the tape and ensure you are looking still and confident.
• Practise in front of the mirror. You can add different body movements to show your confidence.
• Ask the family to be an audience. They will probably love to be involved in your school project. It does not matter how well they speak English but they can tell you if you are standing still and looking confident!

Remember to write a list of possible questions down that you might be asked by your teacher or fellow students. You must plan the answers.

You will be nervous on the day and the words will probably escape you. Your classmates will all be feeling exactly the same.

• Stand confidently
• Do not fidget
• Speak loudly and clearly
• Do not be scared to show emotion in your voice
• Do not laugh

You need to look professional when you are performing your speech.

You will be assessed immediately and feedback should be provided straight away. There are a few official forms to complete, so try not to be surprised if your teacher is writing lots of notes. You may even be asked to peer assess other members of the class.

Writing Speeches for IGCSE First Language English

What will this course cover.

On this course, we will examine how to write a speech. This could appear on your First Language English IGCSE Paper 1 (Q3).

Study with me for free today!

This course includes:

• A video lesson
• A* Exemplar
• Review quiz

Course Content

Sarah O’Rourke

I’ve been teaching for nine years, working in the UK and in China. I have a Master’s degree in Education and an Undergraduate degree in English language and literature.

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

Best Ways to Write a Speech in IGCSE English

Home » Blog Microsite » Best Ways to Write a Speech in IGCSE English

Table of Contents

  3723 Reads     Updated on: May 6, 2024

       Updated on: 

IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) offers up to 70 subjects to its students, including more than 30 languages. Students can take them in any combination. The groups under which the subjects are ordered are

• Group 1 – Languages
• Group 2 – Humanities and Social Sciences
• Group 3 – Sciences
• Group 4 – Mathematics and Business
• Group 5 – Creative and Professional and Vocational

Students have to choose 2 languages, one subject each from groups 2 to 5. The 7th subject can be chosen from any group 2 to 5. Apart from giving an international education certificate, high scores on the IGCSE have other benefits too.

• High job opportunities and expertise
• Higher education in countries abroad
• Work skills to adapt to social life

There are two options for the language English – English as the first language (EFL) and English as the second language (ESL)

Cambridge IGCSE First Language English (EFL) is curated for students whose first language is English. The course enables the students to

• Enhance their speaking and writing skills
• Expand their vocabulary, and use correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation
• Develop a personal style
• Develop an awareness of the audience being addressed

Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English (ESL) is curated for students whose native language is not English but have a working knowledge. The course enables the students to

• Understand and use English in a range of situations
• Enhance the awareness of the four language-learning skills – reading, writing,
• listening, and speaking
• Focus on the use of the language in everyday communication
• Learn to complement the other areas of the curriculum by developing the transferable skills

Thus, the students improve their communication abilities in this language, increasing their opportunities for further studies or for a planned career.

To choose the right option, consider two major parameters

• How comfortable and fluent are you in the English language
• What your future goals – either academic or career are

Assessments of EFL and ESL – Writing

Paper 1 and Paper 2 of the EFL require the students respond to texts provided in the examination

Paper 1 – Extended Response to Reading

• Requires the students to respond in 250–350 words to one of the following text types – speech, letter, report, journal, interview, and article

Paper 2 – Directed Writing – Two Questions

• Evaluate the information in the text to write a 250-350 worded
• discursive/argumentative/persuasive speech, letter, or article
• Descriptive or Narrative 350-450 worded composition

ESL Require the Students to Attempt the Following

• Make brief notes related to a text printed in the paper
• Write 80-word summary related to a text printed in the paper
• Write 100-150 words of continuous prose in response to a picture and/or short prompts printed in the paper
• Write a 100-150 review, report, or an article in response to a picture and/or shore prompts printed in the paper

Let us dig deeper into the component – Speech writing – which is one of the tasks in the paper. Speech is the expression of or the ability to express thoughts, ideas, and feelings by articulate sounds.

If you have not written any speech, then surely writing one will be intimidating. But with the right techniques, anyone can write a speech. The main purpose of giving/writing a speech is making the audience buy your idea or pay attention to your thoughts and ideas.

Features of a Good Speech Writing Task

• The student will be given a reading booklet insert containing the passage for the speech writing. Questions related to the passage also will be provided. The student needs to read the passage carefully.
• After thoroughly understanding the question, he needs to select the relevant points from the passage.
• He then needs to convert the selected points into his own words.
• Finally, he needs to put the points and put them together to create an effective speech

Picking The Relevant Points of The Passage

The large variety of plants in Hawaii must have spread over considerable distances because the Hawaiian Islands have never been connected to other land masses. This necessitates a method of transportation as well as ecological parity between the source area and the recipient area.There is some debate around the involved transit technique. Some biologists claim that air and ocean currents transport plant seeds to Hawaii.

The results of flotation experiments and the brisk air currents, however, call into doubt these presumptions. Transport by birds is more likely to happen, either externally through unintentional feather attachment of the seeds or inside through fruit digestion and subsequent seed release. Even though it’s likely that fewer kinds of plant seeds have traveled to Hawaii externally than internally, more plant species are known to be suited to external than to internal travel.

The passage talks about the plantation in Hawaii islands. Since it is an island, the author emphasizes the long-distance dispersal of seeds for the growth of the plants.

He then talks about the dispute in the methods of seeds dispersal – ocean and air currents, and birds. He also discusses the reasons causing doubts on the hypotheses.

Paraphrasing The Points

Let us consider a few examples for paraphrasing the chosen relevant points:

• My business partners and I are currently working to secure funding for a brand-new firm we are launching.
• I’m currently looking for capital for my new company with my business partners.
• This brand is preferred by most plumbers.
• Many plumbers favor this brand.
• The still waters of the Caribbean were teal in color.
• The turquoise Caribbean waters were beautifully calm.
• In the first season of the program, Mary’s brother and sister banded together to oppose her.
• Earlier on in the show, Mary’s sister and brother struck a bargain. logically putting everything together

Putting The Points Together in a Cohesive Manner

The speech should be well planned out and smooth. The essence of your idea that you want to share with the audience should be strong and firm and use words that are simple yet impactful.

1. Always write the speech in the first -person point of view, as you are the person delivering your idea in front of the audience. Use of personal pronouns is a strong way to connect. For example

“I am sure that you would agree with me…” “I believe that you would have come across…’ “We all follow the same…”

2. Use anecdotes – philosophical, inspirational, or humorous. These can be used to – convey messages or for motivational purposes or deter the audience from doing something rather than handing over a list of rules.

3. Use Rhetorical questions – By bringing out the questions, you are not expecting any answers rather sets your audience thinking on your idea.

4. Clear Paragraphs – Have clear topic sentences with separate ideas for each paragraph though they are not mentioned. Each paragraph has to have the path indicators depending on whether it is in line with the previous paragraph or contradicting the previous idea. For example, ‘Another’, ‘In addition to’,

5. ‘Furthermore’, ‘Additionally’ – all these are indicators that you are conveying the same idea present in the previous paragraph. And ‘Yet’, ‘But’ ‘In contrast’,

6. ‘Contrary to’ – all these indicate that you are deviating or giving the other version of the idea presented in the previous paragraph. Each paragraph should have a topic sentence, supporting details, colorful vocabulary, and a concluding sentence.

7. Range of vocabulary – Sometimes a range of vocabulary included in your speech can take care of repetitive words and make your sentences stand out. Also building vocabulary helps in the paraphrasing task.

Keep the sentences short to avoid deviating from the topic. This makes sure that the reader/listener is on the same page as you are.

8. Appropriate closing – A good speech as it should have a strong opening should have an appropriate closing too with a small reiteration of your idea and a thanks to the audience.

Manya – The Princeton Review

Manya – The Princeton Review offers end-to-end study abroad services encompassing  admissions consulting services , test preparation, English language training, career assessment, and international internship opportunities to study abroad aspirants. Founded in 2002, Manya holds an impeccable track record of enabling more than 4 lac students to accomplish their study abroad dreams through its network of 47+ centers across India.

Manya has formed long-lasting global alliances with several market leaders in the education industry in order to maximize the benefits of its large service portfolio. Their list of esteemed partners and affiliations includes – The Princeton Review (TPR), Cambridge University Press (CUP), Cogito Hub, British Council, Tuding to name a few. Manya has also forged 600+ partnerships with international universities across top study abroad destinations.

Are students allowed to bring dictionaries to the IGCSE english exam?

No, dictionaries are not allowed to bring in the IGCSE english exam.

Can a student use the British language English rather than American and Australian language English?

Yes. Students can use the British language, American and Australian languages in the IGCSE English exam.

How to write a speech for the IGCSE English exam?

To write a speech one needs to point out the relevant information from the passage. The student needs to put and complete the sentence in a logical manner. There must be a flow in the passage. And with the appropriate closing to end the speech.

What is Speech Writing?

Speech writing is the art and process to write a summary in a logical manner. In order to describe a topic for 5-10 mins of duration. Thus, This is called speech writing.

What is the format of speech writing?

First, start with the introduction. Second, followed by the body (main content). Last, End with a conclusion. Thus this is the format of speech writing.

Previous Blog

Related Blogs

Points to Know About Your Article Writing – IGCSE English

How to Use and Construct a Mathematics Cheat Sheet?

Tips for IBDP-TOK and a Sample Essay

Just One Step Away! Our Experts require more information to assist you in a better way.

Your privacy is important to us

Admissions Consulting Packages

Trending Blogs

• Study abroad
• Study Abroad UK
• Study Abroad US
• Study Abroad Canada
• Study Abroad Australia
• Study Abroad Germany
• Study Abroad South Korea
• Study Abroad Spain
• Study Abroad Netherlands
• Study Abroad Switzerland
• Study Abroad Japan

Just One Step Away!

Our Experts require more information to assist you in a better way.

Testimonial

Download Form

Privacy overview.

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.

FirstLanguageEnglish.com

Your key to IGCSE First Language English!

• Your Profile
• Membership Signup
• Publications
• Descriptive and Narrative Essay Bank
• Directed Writing Sample Responses – EnglishFirstLanguage.net
• Writer’s Effect – Sample Answers
• Summary – Sample Responses for Question 1(f)
• Mission and Motivation
• Live Tuition Class Interest Form

Search Here ….

Paper 2: directed writing (question 1) – how to excel.

Hello there! Today, we’re going to introduce you to the wonderful practice of *drumroll* directed writing!

Here’s what that’s all about!

In directed writing…

So why is this directed writing? It’s directed writing because it’s specifically directing you to create a particular type of text – either a discursive/argumentative/persuasive speech, letter, or article.

By the fundamental counting principle, there are a grand total of 9 types of things that you can be asked to do, then.

i) Discursive speech ii) Discursive letter iii) Discursive article iv) Argumentative speech v) Argumentative letter vi) Argumentative article vii) Persuasive speech viii) Persuasive letter ix) Persuasive article

But you’re not just going to write these essays offhand!

Have a look at a sample question below, from Summer 2021, Paper 2, Variant 3.

Question 1 Write a speech to give to an audience of young people suggesting how they can make changes effectively in their lives. In your speech you should: • evaluate the views given in both texts about making resolutions • give advice, based on what you have read, about how young people might manage the changes they want to make in their lives. Base your speech on what you have read in both texts, but be careful to use your own words. Address both of the bullet points. Write about 250 to 350 words. Up to 15 marks are available for the content of your answer, and up to 25 marks for the quality of your writing.

As you can see, the question is asking you to write a speech. Moreover, it is asking you to make a speech to young people – how incredible! What a privilege you have in front of you to influence the next generation!

…Does this mean that you can go ahead and tell people that they should all go on TikTok and achieve their dreams by doing the magic bomb dance?

…Unfortunately no, because the text is also asking you to evaluate the views in both texts about making resolutions, and it is asking you to give advice, based on what you have read, about how young people might manage the changes they want to make in their lives.

That is very specific, and you can’t go against that, but there is plenty of excellence that you can achieve!

Well, how do we do that? We have to read the text! Have a look here:

Text A: Anyone up for a New Year challenge? The article below discusses some strategies for keeping resolutions. No one seems sure when the idea of making resolutions at the turn of a new year began. The ancient Babylonians are believed to have celebrated the beginning of a new planting season by resolving to make changes for the better. The Roman god Janus – the one that looks both backwards to the past and forwards to the future – inspired citizens to promise improvements in the coming year. In the modern world, many countries and cultures celebrate their new year with ‘wishes’ rather than resolutions, but social media, perhaps inevitably, has ensured that personal struggles to exercise more / study harder / eat more healthily / be kinder have become collective experiences. Most people will not succeed with challenges for more than a few weeks: willpower is not a talent that a lucky few are born with, according to some research. Willpower is a skill to be practised. Frank Ryan, author of ‘Willpower for Dummies’, explains: ‘Our level of willpower fluctuates according to our motivation in any given situation. Everybody can learn to use their willpower more effectively.’ To maximise our chances of sticking to resolutions, Ryan says, we should identify our ‘willpower profile’. ‘Some people are more impulsive than others. That comes down to personality. For some, scheduling time to reflect on your progress by keeping a diary can be helpful. For others, signing up for a group where everyone has a common goal can help to strengthen your resolve, as can sharing even small progress with others.’ Magdalena Bak-Maier, a neuro-scientist and coach, encourages people to make a written plan which sets specific goals. ‘You might have announced: this year I’m going to write a novel or I’m going to run a half-marathon, but those are just ideas, not plans. A plan is: I’m going to get up at 6:30 Monday to Friday and write 500 words of my screenplay before I leave for work. Or I’m going to sign up for 10 water-colour classes and go every Monday at 18:00.’ Finally, be kind to yourself. ‘Anticipate lapses and plan for them,’ says Ryan. ‘Changing habits, or establishing new ones, is a motivational marathon, with inevitable trips along the way.’ It’s important to stay optimistic. ‘Feeling negative and self-critical actually reduces your willpower,’ says Ryan. ‘Negative moods are the enemy of willpower and self-blame is the main culprit.’ Text B The article below is about some of the benefits of making resolutions. I like a challenge, and what better way to push myself than at the start of the New Year with wholly ridiculous resolutions? One year, I randomly decided I’d practise yoga every day for the following 12 months without ever having tried yoga before – very ambitious. Last year I promised myself I’d go bouldering every single Thursday … indefinitely. And of course, for the past two years, I’ve attempted to have a plant-based diet for the first month of the year knowing I love cheese more than most things in this life. Needless to say, all my grandiose New Year’s resolutions have been a tremendous flop. Essentially every year I set myself up for failure. Normally I feel exceptionally guilty about how much of a slob I’ve become by the end of the year and try to rectify it by attempting resolutions that are ambitious at best and delusional at worst. Luckily, I’m not alone with my futile declarations as 80 per cent of New Year’s resolutions fail within weeks. I lasted 27 days the first time I attempted a plant-based diet – all it took was one encounter with a margherita pizza and all my hard work was undone 4 short days before the end of the challenge. And when it came to bouldering, I got a (not so cheap) 10-day pass to a climbing centre, and let’s just say a year later there’s still about four visiting passes left to use. Yes, my resolutions never go to plan, but they have taught me a wealth of new, sometimes pointless, skills. I’m often too hard on myself and forget all the days I did actually stick to my challenges and what I’d gained from them. I lasted 27 whole days as a vegan yet I was more upset about the four days that I didn’t manage. I stuck at it the next time though, learning from my mistakes. The fully vegan diet didn’t stick but I now know how to realistically work more plant-based meals into my diet rather than going cold turkey (excuse the pun) and spending a whole month in near starvation. And I didn’t do yoga every day, because that’s ridiculous, but I did practise it daily for the first few months and continued on and off long after that – it truly made me feel stronger and happier in myself. I definitely don’t go climbing as often as I’d like to but the point is I still go when I can. Being realistic in my expectations is where I really fail every year. Daily challenges, massive changes to my diet and physical activity can’t just happen overnight.

Okay, so here’s how you do well on this.

Let’s start.

• Understand the question: Before you start writing, read the question carefully and understand what you are being asked to do. Look for specific details, such as the audience, purpose, and format of the writing. Keep these in mind throughout your writing process and make sure to refer back to the question time and time again as you write. The reality is that many students actually lose track of the writing prompt as time goes by, and thereby become unable to write coherent or correct responses – not just because they don’t understand what the prompt was in the first place, but often because they just lost track after a while!
• Plan your response: To ensure that your writing is well-organized and coherent, create a brief outline or plan before you begin. This can include jotting down the main points you want to cover and the order in which you want to present them. Planning will help you maintain a clear focus and avoid straying off-topic.
• Use the appropriate format and register: IGCSE directed writing tasks may come in various formats, such as letters, articles, reports, or speeches. Be familiar with the conventions of each format and adhere to them in your writing. Moreover, consider the register (formal or informal) required by the task and ensure your language, tone, and style match the intended audience and purpose.
• Develop strong arguments: Make sure to develop strong and relevant arguments to support your ideas. Use a combination of facts, examples, and personal experiences to make your arguments persuasive and engaging.
• Use varied sentence structures and vocabulary: To achieve a high mark, demonstrate a wide range of vocabulary and sentence structures. This will not only make your writing more engaging but also showcase your linguistic abilities. Avoid using clichés, jargon, or overly complex language that may confuse your reader.
• Maintain coherence and cohesion: Ensure that your writing flows smoothly from one point to another by using appropriate linking words and phrases, such as ‘however,’ ‘in addition,’ ‘on the other hand,’ etc. This will help create a coherent and cohesive piece of writing that is easy to follow and understand.
• Proofread and edit: Once you have finished writing, take the time to proofread and edit your work. Check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, and make sure your writing is clear and concise. Don’t be afraid to make changes if necessary.
• Practice and seek feedback: The more you practice, the better you will become at directed writing. Try completing past IGCSE directed writing tasks and ask your teachers, peers, or tutors for feedback. This will help you identify areas for improvement and gain valuable insights on how to enhance your writing.

We will update this post a little later with an example directed writing sample, written to the prompt but we hope that you’ve enjoyed this piece so far!

Look forward to it!

victortanws

Leave a comment cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Recommended Posts

Welcome to FirstLanguageEnglish.com!

Welcome to the ultimate guide to conquering the 0500 First Language English exam! Whether you’re a student or a teacher, we are confident that you’ll find some value here. The materials on this site will break down the IGCSE First Language English curriculum for you, offer you some helpful tips, […]

Learning Isn’t Easy

You wake up in the morning and you realize that it’s a new day. Oh my god, do I really have to do this again? That’s probably the first thought that comes to your mind. You already did this yesterday. But now everything’s starting again. That whole cycle of going […]

Best of luck for Paper 1 tomorrow!

Good luck to all of you out there who are taking your 0500 paper 1 tomorrow! I trust it’s going to be an interesting experience, and as you go into the exam, go in the knowledge that you have already prepared your very best, but do remember some of the […]

Narrative Essay Composition Bank Updated! (7th May, 2024)

Dear all, The Descriptive essay compilation has been updated! Want to gain the exact examples you need for that A*? Sign up for a Premium membership so that you don’t miss out, today! V. We hope you enjoyed these essays! If you want to join our IGCSE First Language English […]

Descriptive Essay Composition Bank Updated! (30th April, 2024)

Dear all, Wow! The IGCSE is coming up quick! With that in mind… The Descriptive essay compilation has been updated! Want to gain the exact examples you need for that A*? Sign up for a Premium membership so that you don’t miss out, today! V. You’ll find the new essays […]

Learning English is often thought of as something daunting, a chore, an annoyance maybe, especially if you’ve come from a background where your first language isn’t English, but you’ve been forced to take this accursed paper because you need it for a scholarship, a university replacement, or just because your […]

Narrative Essay Composition Bank Updated! (April 23rd, 2024)

Dear all, The Narrative essay compilation has been updated! Want to gain the exact examples you need for that A*? Sign up for a Premium membership so that you don’t miss out, today! V. We hope you enjoyed these essays! If you want to join our IGCSE First Language English […]

Insert/edit link

Enter the destination URL

Or link to existing content

IGCSE REVISION

A fine wordpress.com site, guide to writing persuasive speeches.

Purpose of Speech

Speeches are usually formal spoken presentations for a particular purpose—often to persuade an audience to support an idea, or to explain or describe an interesting topic or past event.

An effective speech

• engages the audience straight away through personal reference or surprising information.
• uses humour, powerful ideas, imagery, rhetorical questions and repetition to make a point.
• uses a range of sentence lengths for effect

Successful Persuasion

Successful persuasive language appeals to:

• LOGIC Reasoning is clear and consistent. Logic may be real or false (i.e. giving the appearance of logic)
• PERSON Know and understand the audience. Knowledge of personal motivations and history can be used to good effect.
• EMOTION Use emotional appeal, highly emotive words, images, and colours to stir an effective response.

Structure of a persuasive speech/ speech

• Captures audience’s attention;
• Start with yourself and why you are speaking.
• Include an interesting fact or item of information.
• Clearly state your opinion.
• Developing your ideas;
• Using questions to engage listeners.
• Your argument.
• Acknowledgement of the other argument/ opinion.
• Summarise your speech.
• Conclude the speech memorably.

Useful words:

Adverbs : evidently; understandably; reasonable; undoubtedly; clearly; finally; strongly; adamantly

Verbs: to challenge; to oppose; to question; to implore; to urge; to condemn; to propose; to support

Adjective s: Vital; important; essential; biased; dishonest; inappropriate; controversial; brave; foolish

Transitional words and phrases : In addition,…; Furthermore,…; Above all… It goes without saying…; Of course,…; Decidedly…; Undoubtedly…; Indeed…; In fact… Specifically,…; More importantly,… Yet,… ; However,… In summary…

Useful phrases :

This needs to be dealt with…; Some people feel that…; How could you possibly…; What would happen if…; This would mean that…; Is it really worth…/ Do you really think…; Just think about…; I believe that…; Although not everybody would agree, I want to argue that…; There are several points I want to make to support my point of view. Firstly…; I have several reasons for arguing for this point of view. My first reason is…; Therefore, although some people argue that…; think that I have shown that…; We can solve this by…; If these plans go ahead…

Read the following speech identify the persuasive P IN A FOREST techniques (personal pronouns, alliteration, fact, opinion, rhetorical questions, repetition, emotive language, statistics, rule of three)

Ladies, Gentleman and Children, lend me your ears! I am here today to express my utter disgust at the so called ‘sport’ of fox hunting. Some of these rich, posh, toffee-nosed public school boys in tights say that shooting foxes does not always kill the fox outright and that hunting with dogs is actually more humane. However, that could not be further from the truth. Fox hunters chose foxes purely for puerile pleasure; not because they want to help farmers. Indeed, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals reported a case of a twelve year old girl and her ten year old brother being traumatised at the sight of a fox being torn limb from limb by a pack of blood-thirsty hounds. Does this sound like humane pest control to you? Furthermore, being hunted by a wild pack is not a humane way to die. Statistics show that 92% of foxes killed in the hunt have a longer, more agonising death than these killed by more traditional methods of pest control. Stop the murder,stop the violence, stop fox hunting!

Share this:

One response ».

what a lovely, concise speech! It gives all the points it should, too.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

IGCSE Writing Skills text types - generic

Topic outline.

This resource has been developed to support your teaching of writing skills, including teaching learners how to create and compose a variety of text types. 

The text types focused on in this resource are: article, email, report, letter, speech, essay and blog. 

 As the resource focuses on the text type rather than the assessment no marks are given for example texts included.

Please note: These resources were not written for a specific syllabus so it  is v ery important to check which of the writing skills and text types are covered in the syllabus you are teaching. The example s  may not match the requirements in every Cambridge syllabus, for example word count and audience. The examples are not marked and do not demonstrate the standard required in the examinations.