Public Speaking

168 CHAPTER 13^ Presentation Aids

research does not prove the six-by-six rule,^13 many experts recommend that you use no

more than six lines, no more than six words per line. In addition, always discuss every

point on your visual.

Image-Based Visuals

Image-based visuals rely on some sort of figure or picture to convey meaning. They

include charts, drawings, diagrams, maps, graphs, and photographs.

Charts Flowcharts show the order in which processes occur by using arrows to

indicate directional movement. Flowcharts can include drawings (pictorial flowcharts),

or they may simply be a series of labeled shapes and arrows. Casey used a pictorial

flowchart showing how an underwater breathing apparatus takes oxygen from the

water to create “artificial gills.” See the flowchart in his video on your online resources.

Organizational charts show hierarchies and relationships. A family tree, for example,

depicts relationships among family members.

Diagrams, Drawings, and Maps Diagrams are line drawings or graphic designs

that explain, rather than realistically depict, an object or a process. Drawings or diagrams

can stand alone or be added to lists or other visuals as supplementary support. Substitute

them for illegal firearms, inaccessible motorcycles, buildings that are too large or insects

that are too small to bring into your classroom. Use diagrams to illustrate processes

such as the acid rain cycle or the circulatory system. Consider showing a cartoon that

perfectly illustrates your point and adds humor to your talk, but make sure you read the

caption to the audience.

Maps visually represent spaces such as the heavens, the earth, or the weather. There

are several kinds of maps:

•   Political maps show borders between nations and states. They become outdated

with changing political developments. For example, any map of Africa dated before

six-by-six rule limit informa-
tion to six lines, six words
per line

image-based visuals carry
meaning in visual images;
written words are secondary

flowcharts shows the order
or directional flow in which
processes occur; may simply
be a series of labeled shapes
and arrows

organizational charts
shows hierarchies and
relationships

diagrams drawing or design
that explains, rather than
realistically depicts, an object
or process

political maps shows cur-
rent borders for states and
nations; can be outdated in a
fast-changing world

© iStockphoto.com/Onur Döngel

Figure 13.2
This word list shows the
structure of the speech.
The art is appropriate, but
nonessential to the message.

Copyright 2016 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).

Editorial review has deemed that any suppressed content does not materially affect the overall learning experience. Cengage Learning reserves the right to remove additional content at any time if subsequent rights restrictions require it.www.ebook3000.com