What should be a primary focus when assessing a student's persuasive speech?

When assessing a student's persuasive speech, the clarity of the argument should be a primary focus because a persuasive speech aims to effectively convince the audience of a particular viewpoint or action. A clear and well-structured argument ensures that the audience can understand the speaker's point of view, the reasons supporting that view, and the overall message being conveyed.

Without clarity, the audience may become confused about the argument's main points, which can hinder the speech's persuasive power. A clear argument includes defined claims, sufficient evidence, and logical reasoning, which are essential components for persuading an audience. It allows listeners to follow along easily, grasp the significance of the argument, and ultimately be more receptive to the speaker's message.

Factors such as the length of the speech, the use of technical jargon, and the number of visual aids can influence a speech's delivery, but they are secondary to the clarity of the argument. An effective speech can be brief and still impactful if the argument is clearly communicated, while excessive length, complex terminology, or an overreliance on visual aids might distract from the message rather than enhance the persuasiveness of the argument.