Speech: Effective Speaking

Fundamentals course in effective, informative, and persuasive public speaking and critical listening. Includes theory and practice.

Open to Degree and PACE students

Public speaking is commonly understood as formal, face-to-face speaking of a  single person to a group of listeners. Traditionally, public speaking was  considered to be a part of the art of persuasion. In the current course, emphasis is  placed on perception, self-concept, conflict, verbal and non-verbal  communication, and ways for improving communication competence. Students  will then explore new genres of public speaking, such as the impromptu, the  informative, and the persuasive speech, etc. Concomitantly, students will be  introduced to academic debates that will further allow them to support opinions  with reasons, to support reasons with evidence, to organize information into a  coherent message, to refute explanations, to challenge evidence and organize  refutations into a coherent message. Ultimately, students will learn how to deal  with communication apprehension in an effective way.

Students are expected to actively participate in all aspects of the course, from in-class discussions to speech preparation and delivery. Consistent attendance, engagement, and respectful listening are essential, as each student’s progress depends on participation and feedback from peers. Throughout the semester, students will prepare and deliver a variety of speeches, including impromptu, informative, and persuasive presentations, as well as participate in academic debates. Emphasis will be placed on developing confidence, organization, and clarity in both verbal and nonverbal communication. Students should approach each speaking opportunity as a chance to refine their voice, strengthen their reasoning, and practice critical listening. Constructive peer evaluation and self-reflection are integral components of the course. By maintaining openness, preparation, and professionalism, students will build the skills necessary to communicate effectively, manage communication anxiety, and engage diverse audiences with confidence and purpose.

Introductory Speech  5%  Oral Interpretation  5%  Informative Speech  15%  Persuasive Speech  20%  Class Debate  10%  Ceremonial Speech  20%  Speaker Event/Write Up (2)  10%  Peer Evaluations (5)      5%  Participation/In class activities  10%