Rhetorical Analysis On Randy Pausch

What an amazing and inspiring speech of Randy Pausch. Not only did I learn about how to put a speech together he also teaches us some valuable life lessons.
I choose to study the message construction: the basic foundations and its parts, the introduction, conclusion and the organization. Secondly, I have chosen to pay attention to the visual aids.
To begin with the introduction, “A good introduction must perform five important functions. 1. Get the audience’s attention. 2. Introduce the subject. 3. Give the audience a reason to listen. 4. Establish your credibility. 5. Preview your main idea’s.” (Beebe, pg.117)
Pausch start to talk about that this lecture used to be called “the last lecture” to grab the attention of the audience he makes a joke that he finally nailed it. He explains that he has cancer but that he is in the best shape of his life. He demonstrates this by doing some push-ups on the stage. “ Because listeners form their first impression quickly, the introduction must capture their attention.” (Beebe, pg.117) As a visual he has a picture of his tumors in his brain. He uses this to establish credibility, he knows about childhood dreams and realizing this because he did so before he looses the fight with cancer. “If you establish your credibility before you begin, your listeners will be more likely to believe what you say.” (Beebe, pg. 55) He states very clear that he don’t want any pity. The cards are dealt and you can’t change it. He uses humor and makes

An illustration or anecdote can provide the basis for an effective conclusion. It can help the audience focus on the main point of your speech and to hold their attention”. (Beebe, pg. 127) The last part of the speech the clincher is absolutely amazing, “This talk wasn’t for you guys. It was for my kids”. (Pausch) “Another way to end your speech is to issue an inspirational appeal or challenge to your listeners, rousing them into a high emotional pitch”. (Beebe, pg.