Speechwriting Techniques 2

Question 1

Which technique repeats the same word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses for emphasis?

Accepted Answer

Anaphora

Answer

Anaphora repeats the opening words of successive clauses, as in 'We shall fight on the beaches...'.

Question 2

The 'rule of three' in speechwriting works mainly because it:

Accepted Answer

Creates a memorable, satisfying rhythm

Answer

Grouping ideas in threes produces a rhythm that audiences find satisfying and easy to remember.

Question 3

Using a rhetorical question in a speech is most effective when the speaker wants to:

Accepted Answer

Provoke the audience to reflect without expecting an answer

Answer

Rhetorical questions engage listeners by prompting internal reflection rather than spoken replies.

Question 4

Which device reverses the order of words in two parallel phrases, as in 'Ask not what your country can do for you...'?

Accepted Answer

Chiasmus

Answer

Chiasmus inverts the structure of parallel clauses to create a memorable balance.

Question 5

An effective use of the pause in delivery is to:

Accepted Answer

Let a key point land and build anticipation

Answer

A deliberate pause emphasizes important points and lets the audience absorb them.

Speechwriting Practice Test