Public Speaking - Ms. Olson

Homework

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Course Description

The purpose of this course is to prepare students to be effective public speakers.  The course will review a number of speeches and give students an idea of the skills necessary for writing an effective speech.  Through the study of speeches, students will acquire insights regarding the habits of intellect through which responsible speakers examine, test and temper ideas.

Through the study of speeches, students will come to realize that speakers can adapt ideas to audiences in meaningful and socially productive ways.  The study of speeches can play an important role in the intellectual development of contemporary high school students.  Through such study, we can expect to increase our knowledge of humanity, to derive standards for the critical appraisal of public discourse, and to develop an appreciation for eminence in public address.  The following are course objectives:

• To give students many speaking opportunities to help them become more relaxed, confident speakers.

• To develop critical thinking skills as well as listening skills.

• To acquaint students with the different types of public speeches.

• To instruct students concerning the importance of how to research, outline, practice, and deliver timed speeches.

• To strengthen individual speaker’s weaknesses that inhibit him/her from becoming more effective public speakers.

Evaluation 

1. Class Participation - Positive involvement in class discussion and the ability to answer questions posed in class.  Involvement in oral presentations, debates, group projects and class reports.

2. Quizzes - Announced and unannounced, based on reading assignments and material presented in class.

3. Written Assignments - Position papers, short speeches, debate briefs.

4. Research Paper - On a specific topic for final speech.  (Typed, 5 pages, double-spaced).

Rules and Expectations

1. Respect - You are expected to respect everyone in classroom. Be considerate that others may find public speaking more difficult than you.  Treat others with the same respect you wish to receive from them.  Respect includes use of appropriate language and content.

2. Come prepared for class - Bring your notebook, textbook, writing implements, paper and all work that is due every day.

3. Be at class on time - Promptness to class and attendance is expected.  If you are late, have a pass.  If you are late without a pass expect a detention. If you are absent contact a classmate or the office for your assignments.  You are responsible for all work missed during an absence.

4. Submit work on time - If your work is late you will lose one letter grade per day until the work is no longer accepted.

5. Speech outlines - To be submitted in written or typed form on the day your speech is to be presented.

6. Freedom of speech is an important civic right - With it comes great responsibility.  You are expected to keep the language and content of your speeches appropriate to the classroom.

No Food or Drinks in Class

Syllabus

Speech Evaluation Form

Click here to download a copy of the speech evaluation form