INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC SPEAKING
Soldan International Studies High School
Kelly Moore
I. COURSE DESCRIPTION
Introductory Speech is a course designed to help students gain self confidence and an awareness in public speaking. This course will present an overview of the basic types of speeches and instruction in speech preparation and presentation. Pertinent topics include writing and researching a speech, utilization of body and voice, persuasion techniques, overviews of the types of speeches and background on the art of public speaking.
II. MAJOR INSTRUCTIONAL GOALS
The student will:
A. learn and differentiate between the different types of speeches
B. learn to consider the audience when writing a speech
C. write various types of speeches directed at different audiences
D. research various topics to use in speeches
E. learn about important speeches in the past
F. critique fellow students and famous speakers
G. learn to select and interpret various pieces of literature to use in speaking events
III. COURSE ELEMENTS
A. Public Speaking
Introductory material includes: poise, body control, speech organization, topic selection, how to introduce a speech, and speaker and audience relationships.
Major assignments: Personal Experience Speech
Informative Speech
Persuasive Speech
B. Interpretation of Literature
Introductory material includes: differences between interpretation and acting, how to choose appropriate selections, how to "cut" the selection to performance length, how to introduce an interpretation,, and portrayal of author's theme and characterizations through use of voice and body.
Major assignments: Prose Reading
Poetry Reading
Storytelling
C. Analysis and Criticism
Introductory material includes: how to critique a speaker, how to analyze a written speech, judging the merit of a speaking performance.
Major assignments: Peer critiques
Written speech analysis
IV. EVALUATION AND GRADING POLICY
A. The majority of the grade will consist of evaluations of the oral performances. Periodic written quizzes (announced and unannounced) will be given on class material. In addition, grades will be taken on speech preparation materials: outlines, scripts., debate cases, etc.
B. The performances serve as the major unit tests in the course. The student demonstrates their knowledge and understanding of the unit's skills and concepts through the performances.
C. After each performance, the student will receive a written critique. The critique will identify areas of needed improvement for future performances. The critique should be used during the planning and rehearsal of the next performance.
E. To receive credit, all assignments are to be delivered on the date specified at the time the assignment was given.
G. Participation grade: 10% of total grade. 10 points daily.
V. ATTENDANCE
A. Attendance in class is very important. Important material for the preparation of speeches, delivered in lecture, is difficult, if not impossible to recreate. Absences disrupt the performance schedule.
Absences also deny the student the benefit of observing the performances of others.
B. Tardies are extremely disruptive and will not be tolerated.
VI. CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT
A. Students in Introductory Speech are expected to be highly motivated. They must maintain organized work habits and be willing to work hard to attain the benefits of the course.
B. All students are expected to come to class fully prepared. At the bell students are expected to be in their chairs, materials ready. Preparation includes the proper materials. (Students will need a place to keep organized class notes. Assignments are to be on loose-leaf paper and written in blue or black ink.)
Proper classroom etiquette such as not talking when others are speaking, etc., will be expected at all times.
C. The student often will be asked to work alone while the teacher works with other students. In such cases the student is expected to work without direct supervision of the teacher.
D. Students are expected to treat other students and the teacher with respect. Courtesy to other speakers should always be practiced. Disruptive or abusive behavior while fellow students are speaking is not acceptable. Offensive language in the classroom or in student speeches is inappropriate and will not be tolerated.
E. Topics and selections for speeches, and speech content, should be in good taste, and appropriate for the high school classroom.
D. Plagiarism of any kind will not be tolerated.
E. Inappropriate use of in-class computers and the internet will not be tolerated.
F. The student has the responsibility for maintaining a climate and environment which contributes to a positive educational experience.
G. No food or drink is to be consumed in the classroom.