COMM 101 Informative Speech Assignment For the informative speech, you are going to research and write a 5-6 minute speech.  You will select a topic that is interesting to both you and the audience, and present your research as a speech.  The goal is to teach the audience about a  topic that they may be unfamiliar with.   You will not have to memorize the speech, and you are only allowed to use note cards.  You must also have visual aid.

QUESTION

COMM 101

Informative Speech Assignment

For the informative speech, you are going to research and write a 5-6 minute speech.  You will select a topic that is interesting to both you and the audience, and present your research as a speech.  The goal is to teach the audience about a  topic that they may be unfamiliar with.   You will not have to memorize the speech, and you are only allowed to use note cards.  You must also have visual aid.

Step 1:

Select a topic.  Choose one that interests you and the audience.  You are going to be working on this quite a bit over the next week, so it needs to be something you don’t mind working with, and the audience does not want to be bored.

Step 2:

Start researching.  You need at least three (3) sources for the speech.  You will cite the sources in your speech.

Remember what we discussed from chapter 13.  Use credible sources, and use a variety of sources.  All of your citations should not be from the internet.

Step 3:

After you have compiled the research, you will begin writing the speech.  The structure of the speech will be based on the parts of a speech in class.  Use the outline as your template.

Step 4:

Find presentation media to use.  The presentation media can be a video, music, Power Point, Prezi, Keynote, a handout, or even an object you bring in.  You must use presentation media.

Step 5:

Rehearse.  Timing is important.  It MUST be between 5 and 6 minutes.  No less, no more.  You will lose 21 points for time if you fall fifteen seconds below 5 minutes, or fifteen seconds above 6 minutes.

Step 6: 

Deliver your speech!

The outline is due on noon. If it is submitted later than noon, I will not get to it and back to you by the speech. (50 points)

ANSWER

The Power of Mindfulness: Cultivating Presence in a Busy World

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen! Today, I am delighted to share with you the transformative practice of mindfulness. In this fast-paced world, where distractions abound and stress prevails, cultivating mindfulness can offer us a much-needed respite. By the end of this speech, you will understand what mindfulness is, its benefits, and how to incorporate it into your daily life.

Mindfulness is the practice of intentionally focusing one’s attention on the present moment, without judgment or attachment to thoughts and emotions. Its roots can be traced back to ancient Buddhist traditions but have been adapted into secular contexts, making it accessible to people of various backgrounds and beliefs (Schuman-Olivier et al., 2020). Mindfulness involves heightened awareness of bodily sensations, thoughts, and emotions, fostering a non-reactive and non-judgmental mindset.

So, why should we embrace mindfulness? The benefits are numerous. Research shows that mindfulness-based interventions can significantly reduce stress levels and enhance overall well-being. By training our minds to be present, we can alleviate anxiety, depression, and feelings of overwhelm. Moreover, mindfulness improves cognitive abilities. Studies demonstrate that regular mindfulness practice can enhance attention span, memory, and decision-making skills. Being fully present allows us to engage more effectively in tasks, leading to improved productivity and focus.

Furthermore, mindfulness enhances emotional regulation. By cultivating mindfulness, we develop emotional intelligence. We become better equipped to recognize and regulate our emotions (Jiménez-Picón et al., 2021). Mindfulness encourages us to observe our feelings without judgment, fostering a compassionate and balanced approach to challenging situations.

Now that we understand the benefits of mindfulness, let’s explore how we can incorporate it into our daily lives. One simple and effective way to practice mindfulness is through conscious breathing. Taking slow, deep breaths while focusing on the sensations can bring us into the present moment and calm our minds (Hoshaw, 2022). Mindful eating is another powerful practice. By paying attention to the colors, smells, textures, and tastes of our food, we transform a mundane activity into a mindful experience. Savoring each bite cultivates gratitude and helps us nourish our bodies more mindfully.

Additionally, engaging in activities like yoga, tai chi, or walking meditation can help integrate mindfulness into our physical movements. By being fully present in our bodies and noticing the sensations, we foster a sense of groundedness and relaxation. Mindfulness is not limited to these practices; it can be incorporated into any aspect of our lives.

To ensure the credibility of my research, I have consulted various sources. “Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and Health Benefits: A Meta-Analysis” from the Journal of Psychosomatic Research provides insights into the scientific evidence behind mindfulness. “The Science of Mindfulness: A Research-Based Path to Well-being” from the University of Massachusetts Medical School delves into the benefits of mindfulness. For a practical and accessible understanding of mindfulness, I have referenced “Mindfulness in Plain English” by Bhante Henepola Gunaratana.

In conclusion, mindfulness offers a powerful antidote to the distractions and stresses of modern life. By practicing mindfulness, we can develop a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us, leading to greater well-being, improved cognitive abilities, and enhanced emotional regulation. Remember, mindfulness is not a destination but a journey—a journey that starts with a single breath and can transform our lives if we commit to cultivating presence in each moment. So, let us embrace the power of mindfulness and embark on this transformative journey together!

References

Hoshaw, C. (2022, March 29). What is Mindfulness? A Simple Practice for Greater Wellbeing. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/mind-body/what-is-mindfulness 

Jiménez-Picón, N., Romero-Martín, M., Ponce-Blandón, J. A., Ramirez-Baena, L., Palomo-Lara, J. C., & Gómez-Salgado, J. (2021). The Relationship between Mindfulness and Emotional Intelligence as a Protective Factor for Healthcare Professionals: Systematic Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(10), 5491. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18105491 

Schuman-Olivier, Z., Trombka, M., Lovas, D., Brewer, J. A., Vago, D. R., Gawande, R., Dunne, J., Lazar, S. W., Loucks, E. B., & Fulwiler, C. E. (2020). Mindfulness and Behavior Change. Harvard Review of Psychiatry, 28(6), 371–394. https://doi.org/10.1097/hrp.0000000000000277