Quick Links
Getting Started: Topics and Research
Pick a topic that you are interested in. It will make it easier to find information. The research goal for your sources is finding information that is factual and interesting.
Remember that just finding a website about your topic is not a source. For example, finding a webpage about how to make chocolate cheesecake or one with a recipe is not in and of itself a source (unless it does provide some interesting historical or statistical fact or perhaps a quote). You need to find historical or statistical information or perhaps a quote about your topic
If you have trouble finding information about your topic, you may need to be less specific in your search. For example, if your topic is "How to defend yourself against an attacker" or "How to make sunscreen" you might need to find history about more general topics such as crime statistics or how many people go on vacation each year or how much sunscreen is purchased each year.
A good general database to use for facts - Credo
A good source for food topics - foodtimeline.org
Here are some of the types of factual information that you can use in your speech:
Strong Sources (and Examples)
A bad speech will include little or no evidence to support the message. For the audience to buy into what you are saying your must provide facts that support your statements.
Without these facts, your speech is simply your opinion and adds little credibility to your cause. Including direct and indirect quotes and references to research in your speech is a good idea. For example, if you say, "According to the results of a study by the American Red Cross, regular exercise can lower cholesterol levels and help reduce plaque in arteries," then you are supporting your message with research-based facts.
Examples of sources in speeches:
