Speaking to Persuade and Methods of Persuasion
Study Questions (10 Minutes)
1.- What is persuasion? Why is speaking to persuade more challenging than speaking to inform?
Persuasion is the process of creating, reinforcing, or changing people’s beliefs or actions. When persuading people tend to oppose you because they stand by their own opinions.
2.- What is the target audience for a persuasive speech?
The portion of the whole audience that the speaker most want to persuade.

3.- What does the article mean when it says that a persuasive speech is a kind of mental dialogue between the speaker and the audience? Why is it important for you to keep this mental dialogue in mind when you prepare a persuasive speech?

Because if you prepare with a mental dialogue you will be prepared for the most obvious objections and have counter arguments prepared.


4.- What is credibility? What can you do to enhance your credibility during your speeches?

The audience’s perception of whether the speaker is qualified to speak on a given topic. The two major factors influencing a speakers credibility are competence and character.


5.- What is evidence? Why do persuasive speakers need to use evidence?

Supporting materials used to proof or disproof something. It can enhance your credibility.