A Comparative Advantages Pattern Is A Speech Pattern That allows speakers to persuade their audience by comparing two or more options and demonstrating why one is superior. This organizational structure is particularly effective when the audience needs to make a decision between competing choices. By highlighting the benefits of one option over others, the speaker guides the audience towards a preferred conclusion. This article explores the comparative advantages speech pattern, outlining its structure and providing examples to illustrate its application.
Understanding the Comparative Advantages Speech Pattern
This pattern works by systematically presenting the advantages of one option over another, focusing on key criteria or areas of comparison. The speaker doesn’t necessarily need to denigrate the alternative options but rather emphasizes the strengths and unique benefits of the preferred choice. It’s crucial that the options being compared are similar in nature – comparing “apples to oranges” won’t be effective as the criteria for comparison will be fundamentally different.
Structuring a Comparative Advantages Speech
A well-structured comparative advantages speech typically follows this format:
1. Introduction
- Hook: Capture the audience’s attention with a compelling statement, question, or anecdote related to the topic.
- Context: Briefly introduce the options being compared and establish the need for a decision. For example, if comparing two software programs, explain the task they both aim to accomplish.
- Thesis Statement: Clearly state which option you believe is superior and briefly preview the key advantages you will discuss.
2. Body: Comparing the Advantages
This section forms the core of the speech. Divide it into clear points, each focusing on a specific advantage of your preferred option.
- Point 1: Introduce the first area of comparison. Clearly state how your preferred option excels in this area and provide supporting evidence, such as statistics, expert opinions, or real-world examples.
- Point 2: Repeat the process for the second area of comparison, highlighting a different advantage.
- Point 3 (and beyond): Continue to present further advantages, ensuring each point focuses on a distinct benefit.
3. Conclusion
- Summary: Briefly recap the main advantages discussed, reinforcing why the preferred option is superior.
- Restatement of Thesis: Reiterate your main argument in a concise and memorable way.
- Call to Action: Encourage the audience to take a specific action based on your recommendation, such as choosing the product, voting for a candidate, or adopting a specific policy.
Example: Choosing an Electric Vehicle
Let’s say you’re giving a speech advocating for the purchase of electric vehicle “A” over electric vehicle “B.” Using the comparative advantages pattern, you might structure your speech as follows:
Introduction:
- Hook: Begin with a statistic about the rising popularity of electric vehicles and their environmental benefits.
- Context: Briefly introduce electric vehicles “A” and “B” as leading contenders in the market.
- Thesis: State that electric vehicle “A” is the superior choice due to its longer range, faster charging capabilities, and more advanced safety features.
Body:
- Point 1: Range: Explain that electric vehicle “A” offers a significantly longer driving range on a single charge compared to vehicle “B,” providing greater convenience and reducing range anxiety.
- Point 2: Charging Speed: Highlight that vehicle “A” utilizes faster charging technology, allowing for quicker recharging times and less downtime compared to vehicle “B.” Support this with specific charging time comparisons.
- Point 3: Safety Features: Detail the advanced safety features available in vehicle “A” that are not present in vehicle “B,” such as lane keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring.
Conclusion:
- Summary: Recap the advantages of vehicle “A”: longer range, faster charging, and superior safety features.
- Restatement of Thesis: Reiterate that electric vehicle “A” is the clear winner for consumers seeking the best overall electric vehicle experience.
- Call to Action: Encourage the audience to research electric vehicle “A” further and consider test driving it.
Effectiveness of the Comparative Advantages Pattern
A comparative advantages pattern is a speech pattern that proves highly effective in persuasive contexts because it provides a clear and logical framework for decision-making. By focusing on specific benefits and using supporting evidence, the speaker builds a strong case for their preferred option, making it easier for the audience to understand and accept their recommendation. This structured approach enhances clarity and persuasiveness, ultimately increasing the likelihood of influencing the audience’s choice.
