A graduation speech is a time to share memories and reflect.
Giving a graduation speech at your school's commencement ceremony isn't an easy task, but executing the job to perfection will help you contribute to the success of the event. If you've been asked to give a speech, it's likely that you're the valedictorian or an otherwise notable member of your graduating class. Remember to put lots of time, effort and consideration into your speech to avoid being unprepared and embarrassed during your big moment.
Instructions
1. Examine the parameters you've been given in regards to the speech. Depending on the nature of your school, the ceremony and your role within it, you may be asked to speak for a few minutes or a lengthier period of time. You may also be required by the school to mention certain topics or avoid other subject matter.
2. Brainstorm an extensive list of thoughts and memories that you wish to include in the speech. Your speech should have a wide scope, so don't make your speech solely about yourself and your educational experience. Of course, you will factor that into the speech, but you should also include other subjects.
3. Group your brainstorming results into sections that work together. Your speech should be reflective, poignant and offer some humor. For example, a series of remembrances about a retiring faculty member may offer some poignant thoughts. Humor is also a useful tool when used tastefully; there are plenty of humorous anecdotes you can share about your educational experience, but remember to keep them tasteful.
4. Write your speech to have a logical introduction, body and conclusion. Many graduation speeches begin with offering a greeting to the faculty, students, parents and guests. Your introduction should also indicate that you are honored to speak to the group. Write the body of the speech to include anecdotes, both humorous and poignant, about your time at the school. If you want to pick a central theme, such as the benefit of getting involved in as many school activities as possible, make sure the body of your speech reflects that theme. Compose the conclusion, offering graduates a famous quote or thought-provoking comment they can carry with them moving forward.
5. Practice reading your speech to students in your graduating glass or even a faculty member. What works for you doesn't necessarily work for others, so it's important to give your words a trial run. Note any elements of your speech that others feel you should change and make the necessary edits.
6. Compose your speech onto letter-sized paper or cue cards, depending on the setup for the ceremony. If there's a podium, you may be comfortable to have the entire speech in front of you, but remember to only use it to find your cue, rather than read it in its entirety.
