Assignment: Audience Analysis
We discussed how important audience analysis, particularly demographical information, can be to your speech presentation. Knowing the makeup of your audience allows you to tailor your speech. The topic you choose, your word choice, and your examples should all factor in the specific audience you will address.
This assignment will ask you to complete an analysis of a particular audience. The guidelines are outlined below.
Directions
Imagine that you’ve been asked to give a short speech to a group of International students visiting Florida State College at Jacksonville from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Before you do so, surely you’d want to research Dubai in order to relate to your audience. Feel free to research as much as you’d like in order to discuss the following questions. There is a fact sheet with this assignment that you may wish to use as well. Then answer the following discussion questions providing details, examples of your own insight, and analysis. Cite your sources. APA format.
Remember, demographics typically cover gender/gender roles, political affiliations, religious affiliations, age, ethnic background, income level, educational level, etc.
1. What stereotypes might you already have when you consider this audience? It’s okay to be honest here. Once you acknowledge what you believe or have heard/read/been taught, you can better focus on the reality. How would allowing these stereotypes to influence your speech hinder your presentation?
2. List 3 demographics that you feel would differ for these students vs. students originating from the United States. Which of these 3 demographics would you consider most important to keep in mind as you speak to these students? Why?
3. What might you include in this presentation that you would normally not consider relevant or necessary to address for U.S. students? Why? What should you consider as you choose your examples and details? What about the use of slang, idioms, and jargon?
