Speechwriting Terminologies 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does the term 'anaphora' refer to in speechwriting?
- Repeating a word or phrase at the start of successive clauses (Correct answer)
- Ending a speech with a question
- Pausing for dramatic effect
- Quoting an external authority
Correct answer: Repeating a word or phrase at the start of successive clauses
Anaphora is the deliberate repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses for emphasis.
Question 2: The 'rule of three' in speechwriting refers to:
- Grouping ideas in threes for rhythm and memorability (Correct answer)
- Limiting a speech to three minutes
- Using exactly three rhetorical questions
- Citing three sources per claim
Correct answer: Grouping ideas in threes for rhythm and memorability
The rule of three groups ideas into triads because three items are inherently satisfying and memorable.
Question 3: A 'call to action' in a speech is intended to:
- Prompt the audience to do something specific (Correct answer)
- Summarize the speaker's credentials
- Introduce the next speaker
- Provide statistical evidence
Correct answer: Prompt the audience to do something specific
A call to action directs the audience toward a specific behavior or response.
Question 4: What is 'antithesis' as a rhetorical device?
- Juxtaposing contrasting ideas in parallel structure (Correct answer)
- Repeating the final word of each line
- Asking a question with no expected answer
- Exaggerating for emphasis
Correct answer: Juxtaposing contrasting ideas in parallel structure
Antithesis places opposing ideas together in balanced grammatical structure for contrast.
Question 5: The term 'cadence' in a speech refers to:
- The rhythmic flow and modulation of the delivery (Correct answer)
- The opening greeting
- The factual accuracy of claims
- The length of the conclusion
Correct answer: The rhythmic flow and modulation of the delivery
Cadence is the rhythmic rise and fall of the voice and word patterns that shape delivery.
Question 6: What does 'ethos' establish in a persuasive speech?
- The speaker's credibility and character (Correct answer)
- An emotional appeal to the audience
- A logical chain of reasoning
- A vivid sensory description
Correct answer: The speaker's credibility and character
Ethos is the appeal based on the speaker's credibility, trustworthiness, and authority.
Question 7: A 'soundbite' is best described as:
- A short, quotable phrase designed to be memorable and shareable (Correct answer)
- A technical audio glitch
- The microphone check before a speech
- A transition between paragraphs
Correct answer: A short, quotable phrase designed to be memorable and shareable
A soundbite is a brief, punchy phrase crafted to be easily quoted and remembered.
Speechwriting Terminologies 2
What does the term 'anaphora' refer to in speechwriting?