How to Write a Speech for GCSE (AQA GCSE English Language) : Revision Note

Writing a speech is a common task which could appear in Paper 2, Section B of your AQA GCSE English Language exam. It’s therefore essential to understand how to structure your speech. 

The following guide to writing a speech in your AQA English Language GCSE exam includes:

• Key features of a speech

• Persuasive writing

• Speech sample questions

Key features of a speech

• A speech is written to be spoken aloud

• It is usually given to an audience, which could be:

  • Your fellow students

  • A teacher

  • A wider audience

• You may be asked to inform, persuade or argue

• Your tone and language you use will depend on the purpose and topic

• Even though you are writing it down, your speech should sound natural and engaging

Paragraph structure for a speech

Persuasive writing

A speech is often one of the most persuasive forms of writing as it allows you to directly connect with your audience. Your aim is to convince your audience that your perspective is valid and, in some cases, motivate them to support your views, change their thinking or take action. 

To make your speech more persuasive, try these tips:

• Write using the first person, speaking from your own experience and perspective:

  • Using pronouns like “I” and “we” will make your speech feel more authentic and personal

  • This language encourages the audience feel they are part of the conversation

• Present your opinions clearly and portray them as facts:

  • Speaking with certainty can make your argument more convincing and authoritative

• Be passionate by using emotive language and imperatives to inspire your audience:

  • Avoid sounding confrontational as this could weaken your argument

• Maintain a clear stance and remain focused:

  • Ensure each part of your speech supports your position on the topic

  • Confidence and clarity are key to persuading your audience

As an example, let’s consider the following introduction to a speech about GCSEs:

This example makes use of several persuasive techniques in a sophisticated way to clearly establish the purpose of the speech. It engages the audience directly through the use of inclusive pronouns, but only uses one rhetorical question, which makes it more impactful.

Speech sample examples

Here are some examples of the type of question you might be asked:

Key features the examiner is looking for

• An effective introduction:

  • Your opening should be engaging and inspiring, capturing the audience’s attention from the beginning

  • Clearly introduce your topic, speaking directly to the audience

• A well structured argument:

  • Each paragraph should begin with a clear topic sentence that introduces a new idea

  • Use connectives to link your ideas together and guide your audience

  • Include a variety of persuasive devices to strengthen your argument

  • Include a counter-argument in its own paragraph to show you have considered alternative viewpoints

• A powerful and memorable conclusion:

  • End by summarising your keep points in a clear and confident way

You can find a full model answer on our AQA GCSE Speech: Model Answer page.