How does a speaker properly conclude a debate speech?

The elements involved in properly concluding a debate speech include:

1. Referencing the introduction

Hearkening back to the opening of the speech adds cohesiveness to the overall speech. It gives the listeners, at the speech’s closing, a familiar reference point so that it is easier for them to see the logical progression of the speech and tie up any loose ends at the speech’s closing. They revisit the talk’s original purpose, consider the points presented...

The elements involved in properly concluding a debate speech include:

1. Referencing the introduction

Hearkening back to the opening of the speech adds cohesiveness to the overall speech. It gives the listeners, at the speech’s closing, a familiar reference point so that it is easier for them to see the logical progression of the speech and tie up any loose ends at the speech’s closing. They revisit the talk’s original purpose, consider the points presented in the speech, then see the logical conclusion that is the result of this flow of ideas from the introduction through the body of the speech to the closing. This is how a speech is presented in an orderly and coherent manner.

2. Reusing the title

Have a compelling title to your speech to spur your audience’s interest so that they desire to hear your entire talk. Then, consider reiterating this title at the close of your speech. This has the dramatic effect of emphasizing the importance of your topic as you are at least twice referencing the title of the speech and what your speech is focusing on.

3. Making it appropriate

This may seem redundant to say. However, think of speech conclusions you may have heard where the conclusion strayed from the original intent of the speech as espoused at its beginning. Your debate speech conclusion must be attuned to all of the speech that preceded the conclusion.

Do not go off on a tangent in your conclusion. Make your conclusion precise, concise, and clear, and have it be a fitting close that leaves the listener satisfied. You want the listener to think, “Yes, that ending resolves everything nicely and fulfills my reasons for listening to the speech in the first place!”

4. Summarizing

It’s a good idea to summarize the main points of your debate speech in your conclusion. It jogs listeners’ memory of all they heard prior to the conclusion. It’s a good way to re-emphasize your important points. You subsequently present a sound conclusion to your audience with the main points the underlying structure that makes your conclusion credible – as long as the conclusion references these chief points somewhat.

5. The climax

A resonating ending to a speech, in essence, is the culmination or climax of the speech. This is where the orator closes his or her speech with words that resonate often long after the speech is delivered and everyone is on their way home. A quality closing to a speech leaves listeners wanting more and asking questions and pondering the ideas that were put forth in the speech.