Persuasive Speech

Last week we presented our speeches and I was lucky enough to make it into the whole school competition. My speech topic was about plagiarism. I really enjoyed both writing my speech, and presenting it. I have linked my speech below if you would like to read it.

Plagiarism… What is it? According to Google, plagiarism is the practice of taking someone else's work or ideas and passing them off as one's own. My name is Jack, and today I want to warn you about the dangers of plagiarism.

Plagiarism is a form of copying. Many people from a range of ages plagiarise on a day to day basis, although most people don’t ever think twice about the risks they may be taking. A common misconception of taking work or ideas can be misinterpreted with taking inspiration. Two of the most close, yet differing practices. Think about a time you plagiarised. The quick look over your shoulder to get the answer. Writing a text about a topic and finding the perfect article relating to the text. A simple copy and paste? Almost everyone has plagiarised one way or another, nobody’s perfect.

No matter the reason, nor the outcome, plagiarism can be dangerous. Plagiarism is a lie that can continue for as long as you make it. Although plagiarism isn’t just your simple copy and paste. It can go from stealing a small answer, to even identity theft! Some things no one should ever endorse. It is a slippery slope that one day may end up with a worse consequence than being sent to the principal’s office. It can cause your work in school to deteriorate, and for your credits in college to dreadfully be damaged. Copying something word for word? Plagiarism… Taking all the credit for a group project? Plagiarism… Taking and image without attributions!? Plagiarism… There are many many forms of plagiarism. So many that you may plagiarise without even knowing it!

So don’t plagiarise… Plagiarism is so incredibly simple to pull off that most of the time you get away with it. And there’s no better guilt trip than getting away with the lie that you mischievously pulled off. Although don’t let the rush of theft get over your head.

So don’t plagiarise, there are many dangers that are involved with the process. Although that doesn’t mean you can’t take inspiration. If you find a good article, feel free to modify ideas (So long as you give proper attributions), if you’re a little lost in a project, ask your peers for help, and most importantly if you are in a situation where you can plagiarise? Think twice, make a choice, make the right choice. Thank you for listening.