How do I write a Valedictory speech?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around writing a valedictory speech for a high school graduation. Participants share advice and perspectives on content, structure, and themes suitable for such speeches, touching on both personal reflections and future aspirations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about how to begin writing the speech and seeks advice on content.
  • Another participant suggests that valedictorian speeches can cover a variety of topics, including motivational themes and reflections on high school experiences.
  • There is a mention of the importance of checking with teachers regarding content restrictions, such as avoiding controversial issues.
  • A participant shares specific instructions from their school indicating that salutatorians should reflect on the past while valedictorians should focus on the future.
  • One participant cautions against feeling restricted by their school's guidelines, indicating that such instructions may vary.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that valedictory speeches can encompass a range of topics and that checking with school administration for guidelines is advisable. However, there is no consensus on the best approach, as different schools may have varying expectations.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention specific instructions from their school regarding the focus of the speeches, indicating that these guidelines may not be universally applicable.

Who May Find This Useful

Students preparing for graduation speeches, educators providing guidance on speech writing, and individuals interested in public speaking may find this discussion relevant.

sheldonrocks97
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I know this is a little bit off-topic, but I need some academic advice:

I was officially named the valedictorian of my high school class today so now I have to start writing my valedictory speech. I honestly have no idea where to start. I was just wondering what I should say and where I should start.

Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!
 
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sheldonrocks97 said:
I know this is a little bit off-topic, but I need some academic advice:

I was officially named the valedictorian of my high school class today so now I have to start writing my valedictory speech. I honestly have no idea where to start. I was just wondering what I should say and where I should start.

Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

Congrats! That's impressive. :smile:

Valedictorian speeches can be over a broad range of topics. I've heard motivational ones, "looking back at the best times in high school" ones, addressing current events, etc. I think it can be a mix of your passions and memories of HS, as well as encouraging your fellow classmates to carry on and do great things in their next few years...

You should be able to find some good ideas with Google. Also, be sure to check with your teachers to find out what the rules are about the speech content. They may not allow controversial issues to be brought up, for example.
 
Thank you! I suppose I possibly could address a couple of topics in the speech. That'll work if it's allowed.
 
We were given specific instructions in our salutatorian/valedictorian speeches. Salutatorian should reflect back on what has already passed and valedictorian should speak about the future and things to come.

You could always ask your school administration for suggestions if you are lost.
 
That makes things pretty clear, thanks!
 
Don't feel pigeonholed into that suggestion, though. That was just my school's instruction.
 
Okay, I'll see what they have to say.
 

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