Speaking to persuade: Motivating audiences with solid arguments and moving language

Washington develops persuasion through argument structure and the language used to convey it. Speech design connects with motivation and delivery practice. It suits learners who want to present a case an audience can assess, with reasons and evidence that support the proposed action rather than simply asking for agreement.

What you will learn

• Develop and organize a persuasive argument.
• Use language to clarify reasons and motivation.
• Practice delivery for a persuasive occasion.

Who this suits

Beginners and developing speakers preparing a reasoned persuasive speech.

Before you enroll

Practice aloud and allow time to revise after feedback. A speaking technique needs to fit the audience, occasion and available time. Course completion is different from demonstrating the skill in a live setting, and improved confidence depends on practice rather than a promised immediate result.

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Put it into practice

Prepare a fictional proposal, state its strongest counterargument fairly, and revise the speech so the supporting evidence answers that objection.

Source and review

This overview is based on the provider's published information, checked on 12 October 2026. It is an editorial assessment, not a claim that we completed the resource. Time filters are approximate study ranges; projects and exercises can take longer.

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