General Function

Invitations to speak outside class will usually indicate the general function for your speech.
In class, the general function is often assigned. The general functions of speeches are to inform, to persuade, or to celebrate. The general function of a speech to inform is to share knowledge with listeners. If your general function is to persuade, you will advise listeners how to believe or act, and give them sound reasons to accept your advice. A speech of celebration emphasizes the importance of an occasion, event, or person. Speeches of celebration include toasts, tributes, eulogies, after-dinner speeches, and’ inspirational messages. Although it is easy to separate these functions on paper, they sometimes overlap in practice.
For example, a speech celebrating the end of the twentieth century may also inform you of the major accomplishments of that century and urge you to strive for certain goals in the twenty-first century.
As we noted earlier, people who invite you to speak outside the classroom will usually suggest the general function for your speech.
One of your authors was recently invited to speak to the county historical society on his work with the Tennessee Humanities Council. He knows that this audience will be most interested in the council’s grants for local activities in the humanities.
His speech will be largely informative, but he will also introduce himself and try to create good feelings toward the council. Were he to launch an attack on senators who want to reduce financial support for the arts and humanities, he would violate the audience’s expectations by presenting a persuasive speech. That would be his last invitation to address the Decatur County Historical Society!