The lecturer states that persuasive speeches are speeches of contention. this means that they
a. take a stance on an issue
c. urge action
b. aim to inform the audience
d. portray a specific attitude

The right answer is the A. Take a stance on an issue.  

Explanation: Just to elaborate a little on the answer, it can be added that one of the meanings of contention is idea or opinion—it comes from the Latin contendĕre, which can be translated as to dispute. Therefore, persuasive speeches of contention are those in which the speakers give their opinion or pronounce themselves. There are other kinds of speeches specifically aimed at moving the audience to action, so option C is incorrect. Options B and C, on the other hand, are imprecise.      

what passage are you referring to

n arraignment is not a hearing to determine guilt or innocence. it is usually a criminal defendant's first appearance in court