MY TOPIC SHOULD BE WRITTEN ON Teen drug and/or alcohol abuse**** DO NOT USE THE EXAMPLES IN DIRECTIONS FOR THE TOPIC
THESE ARE DIRECTIONS ON HOW THE PAPER SHOULD BE WRITTEN
The pattern for development for this speech is simple:
The Introduction
Identify the problem. This is usually a societal problem, but it can be discussed on a more individual level. For instance, childhood obesity might be localized in your focus. Start with a definition of the problem, then provide statistical evidence of the existence of that problem. Close with a thesis statement that promotes the notion that our concern about this problem should be very real and the time for action is at hand.
Source of the Problem
Profile how this problem came to be.
Is the origin a genetic one (e.g., breast cancer that results from a genetic line that has had frequent victims within that family lineage)?
A behavioral one (e.g., anorexia brought on by peer and social pressure which promotes one standard of physical appearance)?
An organizational one (e.g., social welfare fraud brought on by organizational structures that lend themselves to bilk the government of important resources for personal rather than societal gain)?
Explain the key factors that contribute to the problem
III. Impact/Effects of the Problem
Profile what dramatic impacts this problem is having on the larger society.
Are there physical ramifications?
Are there emotional impacts?
Are there societal impacts?
This is the section of the speech where you provide the audience with a clear awareness of the impact the problem is having on us individually and societally.
Treatments and/or Solutions
Profile the intervention efforts we do take, we need to take, and/or we ought to consider in combatting the problem. Are there current efforts being waged? What new efforts need to be taken? Is there a range of treatment options? Does an individual have some measure of control in treatment or solution?
Conclusion
Explain what the government or social forces should do to mitigate or eliminate the problem. Call the audience to take action on a personal level if such efforts can make a difference. Close with a forecast for the future if we deal with the problem in the time ahead of us.
Clearly, you can think of ten quick topic areas. Online research is readily available. This speech option is a relatively easy one to tackle.
