Public Speaking and Rhetoric Flashcards

Aristotle's concept of 'logos' in rhetoric refers to:

Answer: Using logical argument and evidence

Logos is the appeal to reason and logic, employing evidence, statistics, and structured argument to persuade.

A speaker who tailors vocabulary, examples, and tone to match a specific audience is demonstrating:

Answer: Audience analysis and adaptation

Audience analysis and adaptation means studying who will hear the speech and adjusting content and delivery to suit their knowledge, values, and expectations.

Which breathing technique helps speakers maintain voice control and prevent breathlessness mid-sentence?

Answer: Diaphragmatic breathing

Diaphragmatic (belly) breathing engages the diaphragm fully, providing a steady airflow that supports vocal power and control.

The rhetorical term for a question asked to make a point rather than to receive an answer is:

Answer: Both B and C

A rhetorical question (also called erotema) is posed for effect rather than information; both terms describe the same device.

In terms of gesture use during public speaking, what does 'open palm' body language typically convey?

Answer: Honesty, openness, and invitation

Open-palm gestures signal transparency and approachability, making audiences feel the speaker is trustworthy and inclusive.

What distinguishes a 'motivated sequence' speech structure from a standard problem-solution format?

Answer: It includes a visualization step showing life with and without the solution

Alan Monroe's motivated sequence adds an attention step, a need, satisfaction, visualization, and action — the visualization stage is what distinguishes it.

A speaker who consistently uses 'um,' 'uh,' and 'like' is exhibiting:

Answer: Disfluency

Disfluencies are filler sounds or words that interrupt fluent speech and can undermine a speaker's perceived confidence and preparation.