Special occasion presentations differ from informative and persuasive presentations along four dimensions.
The purpose of special occasion presentations typically is focused on setting a tone for a ritualized event like a wedding or graduation.
The style of a special occasion presentation is typically more formal and professional. Special occasion speakers might make greater use of ornamentation like metaphors, figurative language, or narratives.
Although special occasion presentations should have clear organization with an introduction, body, and conclusion, they may use more subtle methods for signaling transitions between main points and subpoints.
Special occasion presentations typically try to set a more formal, professional tone. Specific types of special occasion presentations, like the speech to entertain, may emphasize lighthearted humor.
There are nine common types of special occasion presentations:
The welcome presentation sets a tone for an event and invites all participants to share in active participation.
Speeches of tribute offer celebratory praise for a person, organization, or cause. Eulogies, toasts, and retirement farewells are examples of tribute speeches.
Introduction presentations welcome and introduce a primary or keynote speaker. Such speeches tend to be brief and primarily focus on biographical information.
Nomination presentations are persuasive in intent and introduce someone you wish to place in contention for an honor, award, or elected office. Such speeches emphasize qualifications of the nominee.
Dedication presentations honor an individual or organization, usually by dedicating or naming something (a building, an event, a scholarship, etc.) in their honor.
Commemorative presentations include graduation addresses, holiday addresses, and other speeches at festive events.
Farewell presentations occur in situations in which someone is leaving. To say farewell you should highlight the person's accomplishments and wish him or her well. If you are the one leaving, you should discuss your feelings about the time spent with the organization and thank those with whom you worked.
Speeches of recognition typically are presented when people receive awards. To recognize someone you should describe the award and explain why the person is being recognized with the award. If you are receiving an award, you should discuss what the award means and appropriately thank others for their support.
Entertainment presentations use humor and levity to make a somewhat serious point. Such speeches are typically more similar to informative or persuasive presentations, but they use humor to emphasize the point of the speech. Taking time to prepare and practice is essential for a successful entertainment presentation.
