You've made it through eighth grade! Next stop...high school! But before everything concludes, you've been asked to give the grade 8 graduation speech in behalf of your class. Calm those nerves and consider a few graduation speech ideas that can make your remarks inspirational, relevant and uplifting. Write a brief speech around the message you wish to convey. Start with an attention grabber like a famous quote to grab the attention of your audience. Show a draft of your middle school graduation speech to a teacher to make sure the content is appropriate. Then practice your speech in front of a mirror or your family, and stick to your time limit.
Fondly Look Back During Your Grade Eight Graduation Speech
Reflecting on past experiences is a powerful tool to connect with your audience. Mention specific memories that serve as common denominators for you and your classmates. For instance, recall your first impressions of the big and scary eighth graders you feared as younger students. Use those experiences to prompt a recognition of the ground you've covered and how far you've come. This can help set the stage for more forward-thinking insights later in your speech.
Give Credit and Thanks
Acknowledging and thanking the family, classmates and teachers that helped you graduate is always a respectful -- and smart -- move in a graduation speech. As Mark Zuckerberg reminded some students in a middle school graduation speech, no one accomplishes goals alone. Recognizing the support of those around you is crucial in achieving rites of passage with grace. And, besides, giving props to your family and teachers can pay dividends in the end. You might get an extra dessert at the congratulatory meal.
Leave a Legacy
Discuss the legacy you and your classmates will leave behind. What impact have your classmates had on your school? This reminder serves as encouragement and also ties you to your alma mater for years to come. Mention specific changes your class made to the school, such as fundraisers for school improvements or mentoring opportunities that influenced sixth or seventh graders. Mention special accomplishments of your grade, such as awards won in academics or athletics.
Acknowledge the Future
While many graduation speeches reflect heavily on the past, be sure to talk about the future. Acknowledge that many students may be parting ways after having spent several years together. Paint a brief picture of what might become of everyone as they head to high school, where they may stay together or scatter. This can help diffuse some of the tension that exists for those who may see it as a sad or bittersweet day. Encourage students to stay in touch with favorite teachers and friends. A strong stroke of optimism about the next steps can end a solid speech on a high note.
