SPEE 1010 - E Speech Communication

Abstract

OBJECTIVES OF COURSE: To enable the student to become familiar with effective techniques of public speaking To speak in a clear, logical and appropriate manner To present speeches with a clear thesis using the Informative and Persuasive purposes To develop confidence and oral and writing skills in speaking extemporaneously with appropriate preparation and practice To adapt and practice active and critical listening To demonstrate delivery skills with interactive eye contact, body language, articulation and vocal projection To research and organize worthwhile topics To organize topic material into a logical sentence outline To credit sources appropriately To incorporate credible and relevant supporting evidence To demonstrate the ability to use vivid language for the target audience, and recognize the power of the spoken word To help the student develop her own ethical communication experiences in public speaking in order to help her expand and appreciate more effective communication competence in an educated society with dynamic demands of public speaking FUNCTION OF COURSE: The course is divided into 5 overlapping units: 1. Diction – A continuing unit designed to assist the student to become a fluent speaker. In-class drills help the student achieve a standard of articulation commensurate with the educated individual in our society. In connection with this, the student’s articulation is carefully evaluated and suggestions for self-improvement are offered. 2. Voice Improvement – A continuing unit designed to make the student aware of the benefits of variety in expression and its relationship to effective communication. The student is given awareness of voice production and analytical sound discrimination. The student gives oral readings from literature, reports and/or other experiences assigned and participates in creative dramatic exercises. The emphasis throughout will be on polishing presentation skills. 3. Informative Speech – The student learns the techniques of informative speaking; how to organize and deliver material to an audience clearly, meaningfully, and in an interesting manner. A typed sentence outline and bibliography are required. Only authored articles and books, especially from the Internet, are allowed for the bibliography. 4. Persuasive Speech – The student learns the techniques of the various kinds of persuasion affecting her life; the different types of persuasive speeches; and audience analysis. Attention will be given to responsible research, meaningful and appropriate contemporary topics, and organization of the persuasive speech. A typed sentence outline, a strategy plan, and an annotated bibliography are required. Only authored articles and books, including from the Internet, are allowed for the bibliography. 5. FINAL SPEECH - The final speech topic & purpose, informative or persuasive, will be chosen by the student. A typed sentence outline, a strategy plan, and an annotated bibliography are required. Only authored articles and books, including from the Internet, are allowed for the bibliography. Since the work in this course is cumulative, this final speech should represent the student’s best efforts demonstrating the skills and lessons learned in the course.