Soccer Mom Shows ‘Em

During the 2008 US presidential election, a stand-out performance was the first speech made by Alaska Governor Sarah Palin at the Ohio Rally. Palin had been the surprise pick by Senator John McCain as his running-mate.

Palin’s first speech was electrifying. Palin demonstrated that she was articulate, passionate, and well-presented, and at the time, was considered to have passed the test of confidence with flying colours.

You can view her speech at the Ohio rally on YouTube [http://www.youtube.com]. Simply search for ‘Sarah Palin’s first speech’.

Once you have reviewed her speech, respond to the following questions.

Questions for Discussion

1. What were the positive features of her performance? 1. [Answer: There is no set answer to this question.] 2. What could have been improved in terms of presentation? 1. [Answer: There is no set answer to this question. Responses should refer to the textbook.] 3. What was dominant in her speech? Was it her verbal delivery, her physical presentation, or the content of the speech? 1. [Answer: There is no set answer to this question.]

KEYWORDS FOR WEB SEARCH: Sarah Palin, first speech.

- Kate Ames, Dec 08