Planning and delivering a presentation - Use of rhetorical d...

Learning Outcomes

After reading this article, you will confidently plan and deliver an effective presentation for the AQA GCSE English Language 8700 exam. You will use a range of rhetorical devices, select and organise clear examples, and explain the effect of your choices (AO5/AO6). You will be able to structure engaging presentations, analyse your language and delivery, and respond directly to exam prompts that require spoken or written persuasive speech.

AQA GCSE English Language 8700 Syllabus

For AQA GCSE English Language 8700, when preparing a presentation, you must:

• Show clear organisation and sequencing of ideas (AO5)
• Use a range of persuasive and rhetorical devices to engage the audience (AO5)
• Demonstrate precise vocabulary and sentence control, adjusting tone and style as needed (AO5)
• Use examples to support your points and evidence your arguments (AO5)
• Speak clearly and use standard English, with effective control of vocabulary and grammar (AO6)

Test Your Knowledge

Attempt these questions before reading this article. If you find some difficult or cannot remember the answers, remember to look more closely at that area during your revision.

1. List two rhetorical devices you can use to persuade an audience. Give an example of each from a presentation or speech.
2. How would you structure a short presentation to ensure clarity and impact?
3. Why is it important to use examples when explaining your point in a speech or presentation?
4. What is the effect of using direct address in a presentation?

Introduction

Delivering a successful presentation at GCSE means you must communicate your ideas clearly, use persuasive language techniques, and structure your message for maximum effect. This article will show you how to plan your main points, integrate rhetorical devices naturally, and use examples that demonstrate your argument in line with AQA assessment objectives. Whether you are preparing for a spoken or written persuasive task, these techniques will equip you for top marks.

Key Term: rhetorical device
A technique that uses language to persuade or influence an audience, such as rhetorical questions, repetition, or emotive language.

Key Term: direct address
Speaking to the audience or reader directly using pronouns like "you," helping to engage and involve them in your message.

Key Term: example
A specific detail, quotation, fact, or scenario used to support, clarify, or prove the main point being made.

Planning Your Presentation

Strong presentations always begin with a clear plan. You must identify your topic, decide on your purpose, and select your main supporting points. Plan where to include rhetorical devices, and make note of where examples will be introduced for clarity and emphasis.

Worked Example 1.1

You are asked to argue for longer lunch breaks in schools. How might you plan the structure and rhetorical devices for this presentation?

Answer:

• Opening: Grab attention with a rhetorical question: "Have you ever tried to learn on an empty stomach?"
• Main Points: List benefits of longer breaks: improved focus, wellbeing, better behaviour.
• Use repetition for emphasis: "We need time to eat, to relax, to recharge."
• Examples: Include statistics from studies or personal experience: "Last year, schools that trialled longer breaks saw a 15% rise in concentration."
• Closing: Finish with a call to action or memorable statement – "It's time we put students first!"

Using Rhetorical Devices

Rhetorical devices give your speech or writing power. They help persuade your audience, create memorable moments, and show precise control over your language.

• Rhetorical Questions: Spark thinking or agreement.
• Repetition: Stress key points, make your speech memorable.
• Emotive Language: Pull on the audience’s feelings.
• Direct Address: Involve your listeners using "you" or "we".
• Lists of Three: Add impact and rhythm.

Worked Example 1.2

How does the phrase "Isn’t it time we listened to students, respected their needs, and changed our approach?" use rhetorical devices?

Answer:
The phrase opens with a rhetorical question, encouraging the audience to reflect. By using a list of three ("listened to students, respected their needs, and changed our approach"), it creates emphasis and rhythm. This combination makes the message more persuasive and memorable.

Exam Warning

Do not "feature-spot" by simply naming rhetorical devices—always explain their effect. For example, do not just say, "The speaker uses a rhetorical question." Say how it persuades or involves the audience.

Using Examples to Support Your Points

Each key point in your presentation should be backed by a clear example. Examples provide evidence, add credibility, and help your audience understand your argument. Use facts, statistics, anecdotes, or quotations as examples.

Key Term: anecdote
A short, relevant personal story used to illustrate a point and help the audience connect with your message.

Worked Example 1.3

You claim that exercise improves mental health. How might you use an example in your presentation?

Answer:
Support with a fact: "According to a 2022 survey, students who exercised three times a week reported 30% lower stress levels." Alternatively, use an anecdote: "I used to feel tired during lessons, but since joining a sports club, my energy and confidence have improved noticeably."

Revision Tip

Before your presentation, write down at least one specific example to support each of your main points. Practise explaining exactly how each example proves your point.

Delivering Your Presentation Effectively

Delivery matters. Use clear, confident speech and body language to help your rhetorical devices have full effect. Make eye contact, vary your tone for emphasis, and pause after important points. If presenting in writing, vary your sentence structure and maintain a persuasive, formal style.

• Start with a strong opening (rhetorical device or challenging statement)
• Move through your points logically, using examples for each
• End with a memorable closing (call to action or striking image)

Worked Example 1.4

How might you begin and end a short speech arguing for more recycling bins in your school?

Answer:
Opening: "How much waste do we send to landfill every day? Would you believe it's enough to fill half our hall by Friday?" Closing: "Together, we can turn our school into a cleaner, greener place for all—if we just take the first step today."

Summary

For top marks in AQA GCSE English Language presentations, plan your structure, embed rhetorical devices for persuasive effect, and always support your points with relevant examples. Explain not just what devices you use, but how and why they persuade your audience.

Key Point Checklist

This article has covered the following key knowledge points:

• The importance of planning structure and main points for a presentation
• How rhetorical devices such as rhetorical questions, repetition, and direct address improve audience engagement (AO5)
• Using examples (anecdotes, statistics, quotations) to support each key point (AO5)
• Explaining the effect of each rhetorical device and example, not just naming them
• Delivering with clarity and persuasive intent, meeting AO6 for clear, accurate communication

Key Terms and Concepts

• rhetorical device
• direct address
• example
• anecdote