What! I Have to Give a Speech?

School Library Journal

Gr 6-9-In a straightforward, conversational tone, Murphy and Snyder lead readers step by step through the preparation and delivery of a speech. They provide a simple outline chart-the S-MAP (Speaker's Master Action Plan) and include an entire chapter on the opening or ``grabber.'' Another chapter, entitled ``What Should I Talk About,'' incorporates information gathering, but other than emphasizing not to get everything from an encyclopedia, research is given rather short shrift. The emphasis is on the presentation and in this area the authors do an excellent job. They provide many examples of the techniques they espouse and conclude each chapter with a summary and practice exercises. The text seems a little formulaic but this very aspect might make the prospect of giving a speech less daunting for students.-Kate Hegarty Bouman, Susquehanna Valley Junior High School, Conklin, NY