Rick Rigby\'s Speech Question and Answer Reflection PDF

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This document answers the common questions about Rick Rigby's iconic speech delivered during the commencement exercises at California State University....

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Rick Rigby’s Speech A. Read the text and answer the questions that follow. Based on the principles of communication, evaluate Rick Rigby’s commencement speech. Answer these questions: 1. What is the purpose of the speech? Rick Rigby delivered an inspirational speech to the graduates of California State University. The goal of his speech was to motivate and inspire the university's graduating class. He talked about his various life experiences, most of which he learned from his father.

2. What specific experiences did he share? What is the significance of these experiences to the purpose of the speech? He specifically shared his father's words of wisdom and quotes with him. These inspirational words from his father helped him cope with the death of his wife and rise beyond his failures in life. Sharing his own experiences with the graduating class was undoubtedly important in reaching the purpose of his speech, which was to inspire the graduates. Telling personal stories in front of a crowd implies that a person is opening himself to the audience, therefore, developing trust and connection between the speaker and the audience.

3. What are Rick Rigby’s powerful statements that could influence the audience? Rick Rigby recited numerous remarkable words that influenced and enlightened the California State University graduating class. He concluded his lecture with numerous statements: Do not judge, arrive early, be kind, be a servant, and always do the right thing. Additionally, he frequently reiterated his father's remark, "How are you living?" It is unimportant how long you live in this world; what counts is how you lived your life. These words influenced the graduating class of California State University because they are words of wisdom from his father that have helped him tremendously in dealing with some of the most trying moments of his life.

4. Did Rick Rigby adapt his speech to his audience (college graduating class)? Justify your answer. Rick Rigby did, in fact, adapt his speech to his audience. Adapting the message to one's audience is essential because it aids in the achievement of the goal of the speech. It also improves understanding between the speaker and the audience. Rick Rigby clearly tailored his speech to the college graduating class, as evidenced by the language he used, which was appropriate for the audience's age range. He also employed humor and made powerful statements that contributed significantly to his speech's success.

5. Assume that you were one of the listeners of Rick Rigby’s speech in that commencement rite. Describe yourself as a listener. Why did you respond that way?

I am a continuous listener of motivational speeches and TED Talks because they inspire me to be a better person and level up my game. If I were a graduate of California State University listening to Rick Rigby's address, I would feel inspired, emboldened, and motivated because he delivered a number of powerful lines that struck me and brought numerous realizations to mind. Additionally, he shared his personal experiences, which I can relate to because I have personally experienced them. He spoke of being at "rock bottom," something I had also experienced. That phrase impacted me deeply and has inspired me to never surrender, regardless of how difficult life becomes. It taught me that nothing in life is easy. We should strive for our goals and aspire to be the best versions of ourselves. With his speech, he taught me several life lessons in a single sitting, and I'm sure I'd be teary-eyed and remember it especially when life becomes tough....