Question

learning objective: explain how to craft and utilize an effective introduction in a speech.

samantha is delivering a speech on the benefits of yoga for stress reduction to a group of adults who are interested in improving their wellness. the purpose of her speech is to persuade the audience to consider practicing yoga.

which of the following should samantha not include in her introduction?

a.) a list of her main points, including mentioning that neuroscience supports practicing yoga because it reduces blood pressure in adults.
b.) an anecdote about her father, who used yoga to improve his well-being after a stroke
c.) evidence from a scientific research study about how yoga improves concentration in elementary school students
d.) her main argument that practicing yoga regularly can significantly reduce stress and promote overall wellness in adults

Explanation:

Analyze the audience and speech purpose

The target audience consists of adults interested in improving their wellness, and the speech topic is the benefits of yoga for stress reduction in adults.

Evaluate the relevance of each option

• Option (a) previews main points relevant to adults (blood pressure).
• Option (b) provides a personal, engaging anecdote about well-being.
• Option (c) cites evidence regarding elementary school students, which does not align with the target audience of adults.
• Option (d) states the core thesis/argument tailored to adults.

Identify the inappropriate element

Option (c) is irrelevant to the specific adult audience and should NOT be included in the introduction.

Answer:

• a.) A list of her main points, including mentioning that neuroscience supports practicing yoga because it reduces blood pressure in adults.
• b.) An anecdote about her father, who used yoga to improve his well-being after a stroke
• c.) Evidence from a scientific research study about how yoga improves concentration in elementary school students (Correct answer)
• d.) Her main argument that practicing yoga regularly can significantly reduce stress and promote overall wellness in adults