In an informative speech, which of the following states what the speaker hopes the audience will learn?

The correct choice is the thesis, as it succinctly articulates the central idea or main point of the informative speech. This statement typically outlines what the speaker intends to convey and what the audience should be able to grasp by the end of the presentation. It serves as a guide for both the speaker and the audience, establishing a clear expectation regarding the content and focus of the speech.

In informative speeches, the thesis not only defines the topic but also highlights the importance of the information presented. It clearly states the desired outcome, indicating what knowledge or insights the speaker hopes the audience will gain, making it a crucial component for effective communication.

Specific purpose, on the other hand, refers to a more detailed statement that outlines the particular goals of the speech, such as to inform, persuade, or entertain, and is usually longer than the thesis. The general purpose is broader, indicating whether the speech is aimed at informing, persuading, or entertaining without delving into specifics. The topic simply identifies the subject matter being discussed, lacking the nuance of what the speaker intends for the audience to learn. Thus, the thesis stands out as the definitive statement about the audience's anticipated learning outcome.