Composing Your Speech

How long should it be?

Usually, each speaker is granted 1 minute to address his/her speech during the General Speaker’s List. However this may vary for different conferences. Anyhow, we’d say about 140 words is perfect for a 1-minute speech; maybe 160 words if you’re a fast speaker, and 120 if you’re a slow speaker. But really it’s not necessary to count the words of every speech you write; we know you’ll be able to estimate the length once you’ve gotten enough practice writing speeches.

What should I include in my speech?

Really, anything. Well, maybe not what you had for breakfast. Or lunch. But anything you think that’ll keep the committee engaged and is topic-related is allowed. We suggest your first speech (also known as an opening speech) to be about your country’s position, such as its attitude toward the issue, actions it’s taken before to improve the situation, its current priorities… etc. Delegates of other nations will decide whether it is possible to collaborate with you depending on whether their countries’ policies are similar to those of yours.

Degree of Formality

Your speech should be solemn and formal. It’s okay to add some humor to it, but don’t overdo it! Also keep in mind that you should always refer to yourself in third person when giving a speech. For example, I would call myself “the delegate of Egypt” if I were representing Egypt. So it would be smart to draft your speeches in third person– that way you’re less likely to make the mistake of saying “I” on stage.

Writing Techniques

We’re no English teachers, so we’re not going to give lectures on writing. We’re just going to tell you that if you want to make your speech sound interesting, it would be a good idea to use metaphors, similes or other techniques in your speech. You’ll be able to catch the attention of more delegates this way (though not always)! Let’s just say that it’ll make you sound more… fancy.

Structure

You should start your speech by saying “Honorable Chair and distinguished delegates,” then introduce which country you represent. When you end your speech, you should say “Thank you” and how you would like to yield your remaining time to let others know that your speech has come to an end.

Giving Your Speech

Voice

You want the whole committee to be able to hear you as you give your speech. So don’t be shy, go ahead and speak up. Speak loud. But this shouldn’t be a problem because most conferences provide microphones for delegates.

Speed

Some people start talking really fast when they’re nervous. Butwhenyoustarttalkingreallyfastnoonereallyunderstandswhatyousay. Okay? Okay. So take deep breaths and slow down. If you’re still concerned that about it, practice with a friend or practice with your family. Read your speech out calmly and slowly, and ask them for their feedback when you’re done.

Posture

When you’re giving your speech, you want to be making a good impression on others. You want others to remember your speech, tour face, and your country. So don’t sway as you talk, don’t look down, and look at your audience. Don’t fumble with the microphone as you speak and use hand gestures to support your speech.

(If you’d like to look for some sample Model UN speeches, you know that your best friend Google is available 24/7. That said, I think you know what to do now. Huehuehue…)

Have any questions or suggestions? Email us at themunual@gmail.com