Chapter 5Chapter 5The type of audienceThe type of audience

pages 82-87

Aristotle:Aristotle:Greek PhilosopherGreek Philosopher

Think as wise men do, but speak as the common people do.

Audience AnalysisAudience AnalysisDetermine to know as much as Determine to know as much as possible about your audience so you possible about your audience so you can effectively communicate with can effectively communicate with them.them.

Biblical ApplicationBiblical ApplicationWhen I am with those who are

oppressed, I share their oppression so that I might bring them to Christ. Yes, I try to find

common ground with everyone so that I might bring them to Christ.

1 Corinthians 9:12

Demographic AnalysisDemographic Analysis•Determines audience response

using physical and cultural characteristics.

Demographic AnalysisDemographic Analysis• Most basic and easiest to perform

• Identifies physical & cultural similarities/differences

Wise speakers will research their

audience to determine several factors to

reach them at their level.

Factors for AnalysisFactors for Analysis• Age

• Gender

• Knowledge

• Occupation

• Ethnic Background

• Socioeconomic Background

• Religion

• Other

AgeAge• Learn the average age of audience

• Tailor message to appeal to age group

• Use terminology understood by members

• Direct information to appeal to audience

• If age span is extreme, use other demographic factors

GenderGender• Men & women think differently

• Variety of interests for each gender

• Know majority in audience to determine topic and approach

• Do not assume certain differences or create generalized stereotypes.

KnowledgeKnowledge• Determine the background of your audience

to choose meaningful topic

• Consider audiences’ knowledge of topic

OccupationOccupation• Determines income

• Affects interests and outlook on life

• White Collar vs. Blue Collar workers

• Wardrobe reveals message to audience

Ethnic BackgroundEthnic Background• Racial slurs & jokes are inappropriate

• “And they sang a new song with these words: "You are worthy to take the scroll and break its seals and open it. For you were killed, and your blood has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.” Revelation 5:9

EthnicityEthnicity• Speaking to other ethnic groups &

cultures

• Be aware of the backgrounds

• Be aware of the cultural diversity

Instead, we will hold to the truth in love, becoming more and more in every way like

Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.

Ephesians 4:15

Speaking the truth in love.

Socioeconomic Socioeconomic BackgroundBackground

• The combined effect of social & economic factors on a person’s life

• Career/job

• Housing/location

• Income