Chelsea Brenyah

ENG 1121

9/20/2020

Word Count: 326

Discussion on Writing a Speech Vs. Writing a Letter

I felt that it might be a great idea to pen down some words of gratitude for the health care workers who have braved the worst in the front line of the fight against the deadly Coronavirus; in the speech, I would like to convince them not to take any industrial strike during such a critical time like they sometimes do, most importantly now that they have issues with the government over Personal Protective Equipment. I chose to write a speech just like Douglas wrote: “What to the Slave is Fourth of July?” I prefer a speech to the letter in this case because of the nature of the audience that I wish to target, which is wide.

 This genre will help establish grounds and connect with the audience, then finally organize my arguments and present them in a structured and diplomatic way. A letter may be limited since letters are usually brief and formal; therefore, a speech is a better option.

 My target audience is the health care workers whose hands the healthcare system’s fate and that of the people lie on during the pandemic. They are members of a revered profession and may find me less knowledgeable in the medical field, especially when discussing safety concerning Personal Protective Equipment.

In organizing my ideas, I would start with an attention-grabbing introduction, a content-rich body, and a close, following this simple outline;

  • Open with a punch line and ensure I grab the audience’s attention. 
  • I would issue congratulatory remarks.
  • State the main problem that is the issue of strikes during this time
  • I would arrange my points and arguments following a problem-solution order. 
  • Use practical examples to support the main point and to make an emotional appeal.
  • I would close then ask a hard-hitting question that may generate positive feedback.

Works Cited

Douglass, Frederick. What to the Slave is the Fourth of July? Rise of Douai, 2015.