Public Speaking Syllabus for 2014-2015
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Instructor Information

Course Information

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Course

SPCH-1315-012 Public Speaking

Prerequisites

Course Description

Application of communication theory and practice to the public speaking context, with emphasis on audience analysis, speaker delivery, ethics of communication, cultural diversity and speech organizational techniques to develop students’ speaking abilities, as well as ability to effectively evaluate oral presentations.

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Department Expectations

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Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Lucas, S.E., The Art of Public Speaking, Eleventh Edition, Custom Edition, New York:  McGraw Hill.

Supplies

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Student Performance

Course Objectives: After studying the material presented in this course of study, the student will be able to do the following as evaluated by the faculty in the department/program.

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the foundational models of communication.
2. Apply elements of audience analysis.
3. Demonstrate ethical speaking and listening skills by analyzing presentations for evidence and logic
4. Research, develop and deliver extemporaneous speeches with effective verbal and nonverbal techniques.
5. Demonstrate effective usage of technology when researching and/or presenting speeches.
6. Identify how culture, ethnicity and gender influence communication.
7. Develop proficiency in presenting a variety of speeches as an individual or group (e.g. narrative, informative or persuasive).

 

 

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

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If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

1.   If you were not here for a lecture, then it is up to you to get the notes and assignments from other students.

2.   If you were not here for an assignment, then you get a 0 for that assignment unless arrangements were made with a fellow student to get the assignment for you.  As long as you keep up, there will be no problem.

3.  All cell phones must be turned off before entering the classroom.  Text messaging during class is not permitted.  Anyone caught text messaging during class is subject to dismissal

4.   If you need any help with anything, be sure and ask, call, or come by after class.  I’m here to teach and to help you any way I can.

5.   Relax, listen, get to know each other, have fun, and enjoy.  

6.   Come and talk to me.  I’m  willing to help you with anything at anytime!  

Grading Criteria

GRADING POLICY:

                       

                        30%      Exams (Mid term, Final)

                        20%      1st  Speech (Informative)

                        20%      2^nd Speech (Persuasive)

                        20%      3^rd Speech (Final Speech)

                        10%       Resume

                    In-Class Activities: There will be several in class activities, and some assignments that are not necessarily given a specific grade.  This grade will be determined by the instructor at the end of the semester depending on participation in class discussions and group activities.

                           Grades

                           90 -100 = A

                           80 - 89 = B

                           70 - 79 = C

                           60 - 69 = D

                           59 - 0 + F

Attendance

ATTENDANCE:  Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement.  Therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to attend class.  This course requires participation and attendance since many activities cannot be duplicated.  Additionally, much of what we learn about public and professional speaking is gained by listening to other speakers.  It is the student’s responsibility to be an active and valuable member of the audience as classmates make presentations.  Excuses for absences are not necessary.  An absence for any reason is a loss in the learning process.  However, if an assignment is missed then a valid excuse for the absence is necessary in order to make up the assignment.  

                       

                  

                     

Calendar

Additional Information

EXAMS:  There will be 2 major exams: a mid term and a final.  Any pop quizzes will be considered as in-class activities.  Any student who missed a major exam for any reason must make arrangements with the instructor before the next class meeting in order to make up the exam or the exam cannot be made up.

 

SPEECH PRESENTATIONS: Any presentation given after the due date will be lowered a letter grade for every class day that it is late.  However, make up speeches may only be given if time allows.

 

Withdrawal from the course: No administrative withdrawals will be initiated by the instructor.  It is the responsibility of the student to withdraw from the class before the last day deadline.  

 

Additional Class Policies:

Students who maintain perfect attendance will be  exempt from the final exam.

No sustances or equipment in violation of Amarillo College's Student Code of Life will be permitted in speech communication courses.