Final answer:
The statement is false as research shows people are more likely to remember the first and last points made in a speech or sequence of information, known as the recency and primacy effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that audiences usually remember the middle points of a speech better than the first and last points is false. According to research on message timing and persuasion, arguments that occur first are often more influential if messages are presented back-to-back. However, if there is a delay after the first message and before the decision is made by the audience, the last message tends to be more persuasive. This phenomenon is referenced as part of the recency and primacy effects, which suggest that people are likely to remember the first (primacy) and last (recency) points made in a speech or sequence of information more than the middle points.
In the context of writing essays, using a thesis-first organization means the thesis is presented both initially and in conclusion, making it more memorable for the reader. This structure parallels how people are influenced in speech, emphasizing the significance of presenting key points at the beginning and end to ensure they are more likely to be remembered. It also reflects how the structure and timing of a message, such as the subtlety and sidedness of points made, can affect its persuasive power.
In summary, for effective persuasion, especially in speech, careful consideration of the initial and concluding points is crucial, as these are the parts that audience members are most likely to recall and be influenced by.