Writing an Opening Speech:

To write a well-organized and interesting opening speech, follow the steps below:

 Always begin with, “Honorable Chair, Fellow Delegates…”

 You should not write, “I think/believe…” or “We think/believe…” Always write, “The
Delegation of ____________________ believes” or the name of your country such as
“Portugal believes that…”

 Begin with a catchy opening like an interesting quote or fact. For example, “ ‘When
elephant fight it is the grass that suffers’ are the words of an old African proverb…” or
“Glaciers and mountain snows are rapidly melting—for example, Montana's Glacier
National Park now has only 27 glaciers, versus 150 in 1910…”

 Try to include facts, but avoid including too many as it will lose the attention of your
audience.

 Include the main things that worry or concern your country.

 Be sure to represent your country’s attitudes not your own personal beliefs.

 End your speech with, “…the Delegation of _________________ yields the floor to the
Chair.”

 Speeches must be no longer than one minute. Chairs will interrupt any speeches
that are longer.

 Practice your speech to improve delivery.

 Look at the other delegates when delivering.

Remember, most people are nervous about public speaking. By giving this speech you are
accomplishing something very special.

Congratulations 