Informative Speech Topics for Teenagers

Teenagers doing research for their informative speech.

Teenagers today do a lot of speaking, but most of it is on a one-on-one basis with new technology devices. Speaking in front of a group is another type of skill. By selecting appropriate topics of interest, teenagers can find that delivering an informative speech can be challenging and exciting. An informative speech shares information about a topic with your audience.

1 Famous People and Events

There are many famous people who can be the topic of an informative speech. The speaker should not only talk about accomplishments, but he should also portray the person as a human being. Alexander Graham Bell is a figure to consider for your topic. If not for the telephone, our lives today would be considerably different. Discussing his contribution to today's world is something teens can relate to. Also, consider Ralph Bunche or Jonas Salk, whose lives are worth sharing.

Famous events in history are filled with relevant material for informative speeches. Some can even supplement ideas that were studied in social studies classes. Paul Revere and his ride warning that the British were coming was a heroic deed that teens enjoy hearing about. The attack on Pearl Harbor can be the basis of an informative speech in which the teenager discusses the effect of the attack on the world and history.The Holocaust and its significance and the Mexican holiday Cinco de Mayo are other possibilities.

2 Sports and Athletic Figures

Teenagers love sports. These are not only enjoyable, but also healthy pastimes. A wrestling demonstration can enlighten teenagers about how to wrestle and can show the dangers, values and confidence that come with the sport. Other possibilities include discussing basketball, with its emphasis on teamwork, or giving a presentation on tennis. Here you can describe the game, tell how to keep score and emphasize the importance of working with a partner when playing in doubles.

Looking for teenage role models is not difficult as many athletes, despite their fame, contribute to society. "Successful Athlete Role Models" is a popular topic for teenagers since athletes can influence teenage behavior. There are many role models to choose from. The Williams sisters, although competitors, support each other. Michael Jordan is known for charitable activities and Lance Armstong, the cyclist, courageously continued with his career despite having cancer.

3 Entertainment

Teenagers spend considerable time enjoying entertaining activities. They love to exchange ideas about them. Talking about movies or analyzing a TV show can lead to an interesting informative speech.

Add to this rock bands, a favorite. The history of some of the bands, what they excel in and where they can be seen are some subjects that can be included in a speech. These, as well as computer games, are part of the teenage culture today and are worthwhile topics for teens.

4 Personal Experiences

Travels or camp experiences make good speech topics. Describe any special places you may have visited and bring pictures and souvenirs to illustrate your material. Not to be overlooked are memorable moments, which can be fun to share. These could include embarrassing moments, funny situations or your most challenging experiences.

5 Other Possibilities

"How Teenagers Live in Other Countries" can work well for a speech. Teens enjoy hearing about other teenagers around the world and their cultures. Other worthwhile suggestions include book reports or holiday celebrations. Describing your favorite hobby can be enjoyable for teens. Consider the value of comic books or potential careers as other possibilities.

  • 1 "Speech for Today"; Hibbs, Fessenden, Larson, Wagner"; 2002
  • 2 "The Art of Public Speaking"; Stephen E. Lucas; 2009

Based in Bellmore, N.Y., Shula Hirsch has been writing since 1960 on travel, education, raising children and senior problems. Her articles have appeared in "Newsday," "Mature Living," "Teaching Today," and "Travel News." She holds a Master of Arts degree from Columbia University and is a retired professor of English.

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