Public Speaking Syllabus for 2014-2015
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Instructor Information

Course Information

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Course

SPCH-1315-011 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

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

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Supplies

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Student Performance

Course Objectives

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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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Learning Outcomes:

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1. Demonstrate an understanding of the foundational models of communication.
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2. Apply elements of audience analysis.
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3. Demonstrate ethical speaking and listening skills by analyzing presentations for evidence and logic
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4. Research, develop and deliver extemporaneous speeches with effective verbal and nonverbal techniques.
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5. Demonstrate effective usage of technology when researching and/or presenting speeches.
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6. Identify how culture, ethnicity and gender influence communication.
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7. Develop proficiency in presenting a variety of speeches as an individual or group (e.g. narrative, informative or persuasive).
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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. Speeches are delivered on assigned days.  If you know well in advance, other arrangements might be possible.  Speaking late without prior approval will result in a 30 point deduction for that speech.  All late work will receive a 30 point deduction.

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\ ·        2. Tests will be made up only in emergencies. Prior approval must be obtained from the instructor.

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\ ·        3. No substances or equipment in violation of Amarillo College's Student Code of Life will be permitted in speech communication courses.

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\ ·       4.  Plagiarism is considered serious academic misconduct.  All speeches and papers presented should be the work of the student enrolled in the course.  Proper documentation should be made of materials cited from all sources.  If it is determined that a student has plagiarized a speech, paper, or exam, student will receive the grade of 0 and disciplinary proceedings against the student could ensue.

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\ ·          5.The instructor will not initiate administrative withdrawals.  If you stop attending class, but do not officially withdraw from the class, grades will be assigned based on the work required for the class, not just work completed.

Grading Criteria

\ GRADING POLICY

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\ 90 – 100 = A

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\ 80 – 89   = B

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\ 70 – 79   = C

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\ 60 – 69   = D

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\ 59 – 0     = F

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\ Assignment/Grade checklist: Keep this current and you will always know where your grade stands.

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\ _____ Brown bag sharing                               _____ VA speech

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\ _____ Introduction speech                             _____ VA speech

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\ _____ Mid-term exam                                        _____ VA outline

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\ _____ Mid-term exam                                        _____ Resume

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\ _____ Personal experience speech               _____ Attendance

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\ _____ Self critique                                               ___ Toast

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\ _____ Demonstration speech                         _____ Final

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\ _____ Demonstration speech                         _____ Final

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\ _____ Demonstration outline                                     

Attendance

\ ·       1.  Because this is a performance course, regular attendance is essential. An attendance grade will be given. Ten points will be   deducted for each absence after the first. Three tardies or early exits will count as an absence.

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\ ·        2. Students who maintain perfect attendance will be exempt from the final exam.

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\ ·        3. Students may make up two absences in order to keep perfect attendance by attending approved AC plays or speaking engagements. Or you may get 20 points for plays if not needed for make up.

Calendar

Additional Information

\ GUIDELINES FOR MAJOR ASSIGNMENTS

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\ ·         Demonstration speech – Choose a demonstration that can be completed during the time allowed (4 to 8 minutes).  You must actually demonstrate (not just describe what you have done), and include 2 sources that are cited in the speech.  Provide a typed outline for the instructor. (Use the format taught in class.)

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\ ·         Informative Speech using a visual aid– Choose a topic for this speech that sends itself to presentation using a visual aid.  Speech will be at least 4 minutes and no longer than 8 in length.  The speech must be informative, and include 3 sources that are to be cited in the speech. Provide a typed outline that follows the format taught in class.

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\ ·         Resume:  Each student will prepare a resume for a position at an actual company/institution.  The resume should include factual, not fictional, information about the student.