Choosing the Medium

Worksheet Description

The “Choosing the Medium” worksheet from the Adapting Speech series is an instructional tool aimed at helping students deliberate on the most effective way to deliver their message. It emphasizes not just the content of communication, but the mode of delivery, which is just as critical in ensuring the message is received and understood as intended. The worksheet is divided into several sections, each requiring the student to respond to key questions that guide the decision-making process for selecting the appropriate medium for their speech.

In the first section, students articulate the core message they intend to deliver, fostering clarity and focus in their communication. Following this, they identify their target audience and reflect on what they know about this group’s lifestyle, beliefs, and preferences, which is essential in choosing a medium that aligns with the audience’s habits and values. The worksheet then prompts students to consider the specific needs of their audience and how they can meet these needs, encouraging a listener-centric approach to communication. Finally, students are asked to evaluate different mediums—writing, in-person, video, or other—and decide which would be the best for making a connection with their audience, including a rationale for their choice. This comprehensive approach teaches students the importance of adaptability and thoughtfulness in effective communication strategies.