Briefly discuss the preparation process you went through to narrow your focus (i.e. move from assignment to thesis statement) for your first speech.

What will be an ideal response?

Students here should discuss some of the following: Classroom setting; Assignment requirements; They brainstormed; They articulated their general and specific purpose; They stated their thesis which also helped identify main points. They may not include every step, but they should name and briefly explain at least 3 distinct steps.