Public Speaking Syllabus for 2024-2025
Return to Syllabus List

Instructor Information

Office Location

<p>Parcells Hall 204P&nbsp;</p>

Office Hours

~ S T U D E N T      H O U R S ~

Contact me through the Messages area within Blackboard.  These types of messages are best for situations where you're having difficulty understanding how to submit something or have a quick question about an assignment.  From these messages, I have easy access to your grades within the course (and I don't need to seek clarification on what course you're enrolled in).

More in-depth questions about your class performance, and/or grades should be discussed during a student/faculty appointment.

Please schedule an appointment with me here.  My 2025 Spring I Office Hours are Tuesday & Thursday, 10:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

All meetings can be held via Microsoft Teams or in person in Parcells Hall, Suite 204, Office P. If I have someone in my office, please let our departmental administrative assistant, Shauna Jefferson (Parcells Hall, Suite 204, Office F), know you're here to see me for an appointment and then have a seat in our lobby area. Please do not assume that you may interrupt other conversations.  We practice what we teach.

With all of that out of the way, know I love getting appointments from you.  When I do, I know I can focus directly on you and you alone.  Otherwise, it's a first-come, first-served world and I may miss out on an opportunity to understand what it is you need.  Appointments come first!

Please make an appointment to visit with me. Don’t see a time that matches your world? Please let me know via Blackboard Messages or email! My job is to enhance your learning experience. I am glad to meet with you at a mutually convenient time and coach you to success.  

Course Information

AI Statement

Collusion is defined as “the unauthorized collaboration with another person or by any other means, including artificial intelligence (AI) and computer translators, in preparing work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Using AI like (ChatGPT or Google Gemini) to create a document is considered colluding. <strong>The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor. </strong>

COVID-19 Protocols

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Enrollment Center, Suite 700. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

Amarillo College Web Accessibility Policy Statement

Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Tutoring for Success applies to any student whose overall performance in the course falls below 75%. The instructor will create the task in the Student Engagement Portal (Watermark) to direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty- or SI-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. The tutoring service assigned, the due date for when the tutoring must be completed, and the amount of tutoring required are at the discretion of the instructor. Additionally, the task will alert the student’s success team. Students who do not fulfill the assigned tutoring task may be subject to program- and course-specific penalties that could result in a grade reduction and/or in not being allowed to progress in the course until the tutoring requirement has been satisfied.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

SPCH-1315-009 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.

Student ResourcesStudent Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

Hybrid

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

The Art of Public Speaking eBook through McGraw-Hill Connect. Access codes are available through the AC Bookstore or students may purchase access to the eBook directly through the in-course link.

The eBook access is required and an integral part of the course.

Supplies

  • Mozilla or Chrome 

  • A subscription to McGraw-Hill's Connect for Lucas' The Art of Public Speaking.

    • Students must purchase this to successfully complete this course.

    • McGraw-Hill Connect offers two free weeks of access.

    • Students who do not purchase this access will not be able to complete the last speech of the term as well as other assignments each week.

  • Microsoft Word or Google Docs, Google Slides or PowerPoint

  • Browser permissions for Proctorio

  • You must have regular access to a computer for this course.

Supplies for Speech Delivery with GoReact

As part of this course, you will use GoReact in Weeks 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, & 7 to deliver practice speeches and each of the three scheduled speeches via McGraw-Hill's GoReact platform. To ensure a successful experience, the following supplies and preparations are required:

  1. Reliable Internet Connection
    You will need a stable internet connection to access GoReact, upload your speech recordings, and engage with feedback.

  2. Computer or Device with Camera and Microphone
    Use a laptop, desktop, tablet, or smartphone equipped with a functioning camera and microphone for recording your speeches. Test these features before recording.

  3. Headphones or Earbuds (Recommended)
    These can help reduce background noise and improve audio quality for your recordings.

  4. Access to McGraw-Hill Connect
    Ensure you have purchased or activated your access to McGraw-Hill Connect, which integrates with GoReact for assignments and submissions.

  5. Quiet Recording Environment
    Find a space free from distractions and background noise for recording your speech. This will help ensure a clear presentation for your audience.

  6. Professional or Appropriate Attire
    Dress in a manner suitable for your topic and audience, as the camera will capture your presentation. This enhances your credibility as a speaker.

  7. Preparation for Online Delivery
    Practice speaking clearly and maintaining good posture, eye contact, and vocal variety while recording. Remember, your nonverbal cues are as important as your verbal delivery.

Skills*

By attempting this course, you are acknowledge you have a basic understanding of all of the skills listed below or you are willing to learn them to be successful in the course. If needed, you may visit the Underground or one of AC's various tutoring centers for assistance with technology.

  • knowledge of basic computer skills including, but not limited to

    • navigation of Blackboard

      • how to write journals

      • how to submit an assignment

      • how to participate in a discussion board

      • how to participate in a group discussion/assignment

    • navigation of Google Drive & associated apps

      • how to convert Google Doc to .pdf

      • creation of Google Slides

    • willingness to continue learning (aka: Growth Mindset)

*If you find you do not know how to do any of these skills, please reach out to me as quickly as possible so I can get you in contact with the correct tutoring center.

If you're on any Amarillo College campus, you may access the college's free WiFi.

WIFI PASSWORD: AmarilloCollege

Student Performance

Speech Performances and Expectations

Policies and Expectations

Speeches are an essential part of this course, providing an opportunity to showcase your preparation and progress. To ensure fairness and respect for all, the following policies apply:

Performance Dates

  • Students must perform their speeches by the assigned date.
  • If you need to reschedule, arrangements must be made with me before the speech performance date.
  • Do not upload your speech video at the last minute: Don't assume that the internet is your friend. Upload your video early to avoid any potential chaos. It is each student's responsibility to have their speeches uploaded by the due date.

Submission Requirements

  • Outlines: Must be submitted to the designated dropbox in Blackboard. Submissions via email or Blackboard Messages will not be accepted.
  • Speech Recordings: Must be submitted through GoReact. (Videos submitted with the outline will not be graded. Videos submitted in any other format than GoReact will not be graded.)
  • Slide Decks: If required, students will not submit their slide deck, but the slide deck must be visible in the recording while the student performs their speech. I recommend using Zoom's Share Screen function to achieve this.
  • Peer Evaluations: Always be kind, helpful and supportive!
  • Self-Evaluations: Always be kind, helpful and supportive!

Late Assignments

  • All assignments are due by the due date unless the student has requested an exemption from me prior to the due date.

Kindness and Willingness to Learn

This course is designed to guide you toward becoming a confident and effective communicator. I am here to support you, provide resources, and offer feedback to help you succeed. However, mutual respect and a collaborative approach are key to making this journey successful for everyone.

Guidelines for Success

  1. Approach the Course with an Open Mind

    • The assignments and resources provided are carefully designed to help you achieve success. Please approach the material as an opportunity to grow, even if the process is challenging or outside your comfort zone.
  2. Respectful Communication

    • Treat your peers and me with respect, even when disagreements arise. Disrespectful or condescending behavior will not be tolerated.
  3. When I Have to Say No

    • There may be times when I am unable to solve a problem or meet a specific request—especially in areas like technology support, where I may not have the tools or expertise required. Please know that any limitations are made with the best interest of you, your classmates, and the course as a whole in mind.
  4. Available Resources

    • If you encounter technical issues or need additional support, please visit the AC Underground in the WARE Student Commons for assistance: AC Underground Information. This resource is equipped to help with many challenges related to technology and other academic needs.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

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

Welcome to the Journey: Charting a Course for Success

Welcome aboard! Over the next eight weeks, we’ll embark on a fast-paced and engaging journey to master the art of communication. This hybrid course combines online flexibility with the structure of in-person sessions, offering a balanced approach to learning.

Purpose

This course is designed to help you develop the confidence and skills needed to communicate effectively in academic, professional, and personal settings. Through readings, activities, and hands-on practice, you’ll learn to navigate the challenges of public speaking and apply communication principles in meaningful ways.

How to Navigate the Course

To succeed, you’ll engage in these key activities each week:

  • Engaging with readings and resources: These materials provide the foundation for understanding communication concepts and strategies.

  • Applying concepts through practice: Weekly activities and exercises allow you to build skills and prepare for major assignments.

  • Completing assignments and projects: Speeches and related tasks will help you refine and showcase your communication abilities.

  • Participating in discussions and activities: Sharing insights and learning from others will deepen your understanding and foster a collaborative learning environment.

Attendance Policy

Regular attendance is mandatory for your success in this course. Since this is a hybrid course condensed into just eight weeks, each class session represents significant content that cannot be easily replicated.

  • Policy: Students may miss no more than three in-person class sessions during the term. Missing more than three sessions will result in an automatic failing grade (F). Each class you miss after your one excused absence results in the lowering of 13.6 points.

    • LATE ARRIVALS: I'm seeing more and more students come into class 15, 30, or even 45 minutes after class has started. While I appreciate that life does happen, please do not make it a habit to come to class late. I have students who have a lot of different life situations. I work to honor each student and their time equally.

      • Students who come to class late will receive a half mark towards missed attendance. What that means is if you miss a class, you have earned .5 points towards your three total absences. So technically, you could be late to class six times and still not lose a letter grade, but if you have one late, you can only miss two classes without going over three (2 + .5 = 2.5 if you earn 3.5 you earn an F in the course).

        • If you come in late, and I have marked you as absent, it is your responsibility to ensure I have corrected the record to show a "L" (for late) versus a "U" (for unexcused).

  • Expectations: Arrive on time, stay and engage with the course content for the entire session. Attendance and participation will be taken each class.

  • Exceptions: Absences due to emergencies must be communicated as soon as possible (within four hours of class time) via Blackboard Messages. Each student may only miss one excused absence regardless of the reason.

Your participation in each class session is critical to mastering the material and completing course requirements. If you encounter challenges that affect your ability to attend, reach out to me immediately to discuss your options.

How Much Time Will This Take?

This is a 3-credit course condensed into 8 weeks. For each credit hour, expect to spend 6–9 hours outside of class on coursework. That’s about 9–12 hours per week for readings, assignments, and preparation. While the pace is brisk, staying consistent and organized will help you stay on course.

Remember, learning isn’t a solo journey. If you find yourself struggling with the material or assignments, reach out early! Amarillo College offers numerous resources to support your success, including:

  • Instructor office hours: Schedule time to discuss questions or concerns. I am in my office waiting and hoping you'll come to see me! These are times set apart for our one-on-one conversations.

  • Tutoring centers: In-person and online options are available to help with coursework.

  • The Underground: A resource center offering academic and personal support.

Setting Yourself Up for Success

  • Plan ahead: Use a calendar or planner to manage deadlines and allocate time for coursework.

  • Ask for help: Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed. Reach out to me or use the college’s resources early and often.

  • Take care of yourself: Balance work with breaks and self-care to maintain energy and focus.

Together, we’ll chart a course toward mastering public speaking and building valuable communication skills. I’m excited to work alongside you as you navigate this journey. Let’s make this a productive, meaningful, and enjoyable experience!

Grading Criteria

Speaking Assignments

Speech Performance #1: This is Me

  • Purpose: Build confidence and introduce yourself to the audience.
  • Task: Create and deliver a 2-minute introductory speech. Use one visual aid and practice effective delivery techniques.
  • Criteria for Success: Speech will be graded on content relevance, creativity, and delivery as per the rubric.

Speech Performance #2: Informative Speech

  • Purpose: Develop skills in audience analysis and provide valuable information on a topic.
  • Task: Research the impacts of AI on higher education, create an outline, and deliver a 5-minute informative speech using PowerPoint.
  • Criteria for Success: Assessment includes accuracy of information, clarity of outline, and effectiveness of delivery.

Speech Performance #3: Persuasive Speech

  • Purpose: Practice persuasion skills by advocating for a career choice's importance.
  • Task: Create a 5–7-minute persuasive speech using at least three credible sources to support your argument.
  • Criteria for Success: Graded on persuasiveness, use of evidence, and delivery quality.

 

GRADE CATEGORIES

40% Presentations 

40% Assignments Assignments/Participation/Group Work

20% Exams

FINAL GRADE RANGES

Letter Grade

Numerical Grade

A

90-100

B

80-89.9

C

70-79.9

D

60-69.9

F

59.9 and below

 

Final Exam Due Date:

The final exam for this course will be due on the last Thursday of the term by noon. This unconventional due date is necessary to allow me sufficient time to grade the exams and submit final course grades by the college's imposed deadline of Friday at noon. No late exams will be accepted after the Thursday noon deadline, and no extensions can be granted for the final exam.  

Please mark this important date on your calendars now:
Final Exam Due - Last Thursday, March 6, 2025, by 12:00 PM noon

Adhering to this deadline is critical, as I must have all final exams graded and submitted by the Friday noon cutoff. Missing this grading deadline could result in delays or issues with final grade reporting for the entire class. I appreciate your understanding of this strict but necessary due date policy. No exceptions or extensions can be made for late submission of the final exam due to the hard college deadline I must meet for final grade reporting.

I encourage you to put this date in your phone with a reminder or employ memory techniques like memory palaces, acronyms, or associations to commit this unusual Thursday exam deadline to memory from the start of the term. Do not let this unconventional due date catch you off guard. Plan accordingly, and let me know if you have any questions!

Late Work: Finding Your Way Back to the Path

There is no late work accepted.

Extensions are granted on a case-by-case basis.  Communicate with me frequently.

  • Week 1 Grace Period: New to the kingdom? If you stumble in the first week, let's chat in Week Two to find a solution. It's like consulting with the Fairy Godmother! After the second week of class, the grace period expires.
  • Beyond Week 1: Late work won't be accepted after Week 1, but remember, I'm always here to listen and support you. Reach out proactively, and we'll navigate challenges together.

Finding your way through a college course is a process.  There are challenges in each class and there are challenges each of you has or will have, in your personal lives.  Those challenges can overwhelm you.  Because of these, and the amount of content we will cover in the course, I have set up the course structure to all you the best opportunity to learn and master the content. 

In general, I do not accept late assignments or late work; however, if after speaking with a student during an appointment about the extenuating circumstances, I may decide to alter upcoming assignment due dates to prevent personal issues from being a barrier to success. 

If I offer an extension, a grade of "1" will be added to the grade book for that assignment.  In the "Feedback to Students," I will write a new due date.  If you cannot see this, please reach out to me via email or the Watermark app.  I want you to be informed and know what's happening.

Pathways to Success: A Scenario

What does this mean?  Well, here’s a scenario: Maria is a single mom of two girls.  She takes classes throughout the year and hopes to graduate in the upcoming term.  During our class, Maria’s youngest daughter falls from a swing and breaks her wrist.  In the next few weeks, Maria’s daughter will have doctor’s appointments and possibly surgery.  Those important items force Maria to make changes to her work schedule, and because of this, cause Maria to have to miss class meetings.

Knowing I do not accept late work, here are the options she may have when it comes to her schoolwork:

  1. Maria can continue on the path she is on now, trying to make all of the doctor’s appointments, work shifts, and class sessions.
  2. Maria can drop the course and pick it back up next term.  Doing this will delay her graduation by a full semester.
  3. Maria can set an appointment where we can visit.  She can tell me what’s happening and see how I can help her continue on her path to graduation.

If this were you, what do you think you would do?

The worst-case scenario is option #2.  Dropping the course, unless there’s no other way around it, is always my last choice.  Option #1 – well, I don’t recommend it either, but hey – some people are stronger and more private than others.  Option #3 – it’s my recommendation.  Why?  Well, it means that I know how I can walk along with Maria on her path.

If Maria chooses Option #3, we could visit and discuss what options were available for her success.  It may mean she gives two speeches on one performance day, or it may mean she gives a speech a week later than her classmates do.  Any assignments not submitted prior to our conversation will be considered missing and earn a zero.  However, future assignment due dates are negotiable which may or may not have a late point deduction.  I make this decision on a case-by-case basis.  The standard deduction is 10 points off the final grade earned for the assignment.

Pathways to Success: What to do

If you find yourself in a situation, please visit with me as soon as possible.  Whenever I can, I will work with you to find a pathway to success.  I will work to be flexible with the course requirements; however, this will require the student to be flexible with their expectations as well.  Please know that sometimes – especially toward the end of the term – I cannot say “yes.”  Know when that happens, I have exhausted all avenues.

What not to do: A Guide

I do not accept assignments via email.  I will not grade them.  If there is an error or technical issue, please check the announcements section of our AC Connect Class to see if I have made a note.  If you do not see a note in our class, please check your AC email account.  If after checking these two spaces, please feel free to text me to alert me.  Don't assume I am aware of the issue or that it is your technology. 

Attendance

Engaging in the Journey: Attendance and Participation
Ahoy, adventurers! Your presence is the magic wand that keeps our communication quest brimming with enchantment and wonder. Remember, every time we meet, it’s like exploring the treasures hidden in Ariel’s secret grotto—each lesson is a sparkling jewel waiting for your discovery!

Attendance: The Magic Carpet

In this fast-paced, 8-week hybrid course, your attendance is your trusty magic carpet, carrying you to new heights of communication mastery. Here’s the deal:

  • You may miss no more than two classes, total. This includes one excused absence to use as needed. However, missing more than two classes will result in an automatic failing grade (F)—an outcome as unfortunate as being banished to the Cave of Wonders.

Why is Attendance So Important? Missing a single day in an 8-week course is like skipping two weeks of a traditional 16-week semester—that’s a lot of valuable knowledge lost! Each class session covers essential skills and concepts, so your presence and participation are the keys to unlocking your potential.

Merlin’s Magic Clause: Exceptions and Adjustments

Life can sometimes feel like a spell gone wrong, whether it’s a visit from Maleficent’s flu or a surprise adventure with Cinderella’s mice. If an unexpected storm has you grounded:

  • Short-Term Magic Hiccups: For absences lasting a day or two, send me a message in Blackboard (or, an email) as soon as you can.
  • Extended Enchantments: If life’s whirlwind keeps you out longer, like a long bout of sleep under Aurora’s spell, we’ll need an official healer’s (doctor’s) note. We will work together to determine what might be the best pathway to get you on track, or ready for future terms.

Communication is Key: Your Fairy Godmother Moment

Trust in the power of communication. The sooner you send that trusty carrier pigeon (or message) my way, the sooner we can work together to make sure your academic journey stays as spellbinding as ever. Let’s keep the pixie dust flying and navigate any challenges together, adventurers!

Calendar

CALENDAR

 

Week OneDUE DATESWEIGHTED CATEGORY
Syllabus Acknowledgment (Blackboard)3/19/2025 
Create Account for McGraw-Hill Connect3/17/2025 
In-class Activity3/17/202540% Assignments
Proctorio Practice Assignment3/20/202540% Assignments
GoReact Video Recording Test (Practice Assignment)3/23/202540% Presentations
Chapter 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 (Connect)3/21/202540% Assignments
Quiz over Chapters 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 (Connect)3/23/202540% Assignments
Weekly Attendance & Participation Grade3/23/202540% Assignments
   
Week TwoDUE DATES 
"This Is Me" Practice Speeches Posted in Connect3/30/202540% Presentations
In-class Activity3/24/202540% Assignments
Chapters 5 | 6 | 9 (Connect)3/28/202540% Assignments
Review Chapters 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 9 (Connect)3/29/202540% Assignments
Exam over Chapters 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 9 (Connect)3/30/202520% Exams
Weekly Attendance & Participation Grade3/24/202540% Assignments
Post Speech Self Evaluation of Performance4/6/202540% Presentations
Weekly Extension Expiration4/6/2025 
   
Week ThreeDUE DATES 
"This Is Me" Speech of Introduction posted in GoReact4/3/202540% Presentations
"This Is Me" Speech of Introduction Outline submitted in Blackboard4/3/202540% Presentations
In-Class Activity3/31/202540% Assignments
Chapters 6 | 10 | 11 | 13 (Connect)4/4/202540% Assignments
Quiz over Chapters 6 | 10 | 11 | 13 (Connect)4/6/202540% Assignments
Personal Reflection on Speech Performance4/6/202540% Presentations
Peer Review of 2 classmates4/5/202540% Presentations
Weekly Attendance & Participation Grade4/6/202540% Assignments
Weekly Extension Expiration4/13/2025 
   
Week FourDUE DATES 
In-Class Activity4/7/202540% Assignments
Practice Speech Posted Connect/GoReact4/13/202540% Presentations
Chapters 8 | 9 (Connect)4/11/202540% Assignments
Chapter Review over Chapters 8 | 9 (Connect)4/12/202540% Assignments
Exam over Chapters 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 (Connect)4/13/202520% Exams
Midterm Reflection Assignment4/13/202520% Exams
Weekly Attendance & Participation Grade4/13/202540% Assignments
Weekly Extension Expiration4/20/2025 
   
Week FiveDUE DATES 
Informative Speech posted in Connect/GoReact4/17/202540% Presentations
Informative Speech Outline posted in Blackboard4/17/202540% Presentations
In-Class Activity4/14/202540% Assignments
Peer Review4/19/202540% Presentations
Post Speech Self Evaluation of Performance4/20/202540% Presentations
Chapters 12 | 18 | 20 (Connect)4/18/202540% Assignments
Quiz over Chapters 12 | 18 | 20 (Connect)4/20/202540% Assignments
Weekly Attendance & Participation Grade4/20/202540% Assignments
Weekly Extension Expiration4/27/2025 
   
Week SixDUE DATES 
In-Class Activity4/21/202540% Assignments
Practice Speech Posted Connect/GoReact4/27/202540% Presentations
Chapters 16 | 17 | 19 (Connect)4/25/202540% Assignments
Chapter Review over Chapters 12 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 (Connect)4/26/202540% Assignments
Exam over Chapters 12 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 (Connect)4/27/202520% Exams
Weekly Attendance & Participation Grade4/27/202540% Assignments
Weekly Extension Expiration5/4/2025 
   
Week SevenDUE DATES 
Persuasive Speech posted in Connect/GoReact5/1/202540% Presentations
Persuasive Speech Outline posted in Blackboard5/1/202540% Presentations
In-Class Activity4/28/202540% Assignments
Peer Review5/3/202540% Presentations
Post Speech Self Evaluation of Performance5/4/202540% Presentations
DUE AT NOON: Preparing for the Final Exam (Connect)5/7/202520% Exams
Extra Credit: Green Lighting Selfie with Advisor (Blackboard)5/4/202540% Assignments
Weekly Attendance & Participation Grade5/4/202540% Assignments
   
Week EightDUE DATES 
DUE AT NOON: Final Exam (Connect)5/8/202520% Exams
   

Additional Information

Navigating the Information Oasis: Citing Sources and AI Tools

As we journey through this vast intellectual landscape, we inevitably encounter a wealth of information. It's crucial to remember that this knowledge isn't ours alone – we stand on the shoulders of giants, borrowing wisdom from those who came before us. That's where citing sources comes in, like a trusty compass guiding us through the information jungle.

In this course, we'll be utilizing the APA style for citations, ensuring clarity and academic integrity. Think of it as building a map to knowledge, acknowledging the voices that shape our understanding of the world.

Citing the Textbook: 

Alright adventurers, here's how to cite the textbook for this course, according to APA style:

Basic In-Text Citation:

  • Use the authors' last names and publication year, when mentioning the textbook in your writing. For example:

Lucas & Stob (2023) emphasizes the importance of active listening in healthy relationships.

Full Reference List Citation:

  • Include the following information in your references list:

Lucas, S. E., & Stob, P. (2023). The art of public speaking. McGraw-Hill.

Additional Notes:

  • If you're referencing a specific chapter, article, or section within the textbook, you can add more detail to your citation. For example:

If the e-book does not have page numbers, you should use the chapter number and, if available, the section heading and/or paragraph number in your parenthetical citation.

For instance, if you are citing information from Chapter 3, under the section heading "Types of Nonverbal Communication," and it's the fourth paragraph in that section, your parenthetical citation would look like this:

(Lucas & Stob, 2023, Chapter 3, "Four Causes of Poor Listening," para. 4)

If there are no section headings, you can just use the chapter number and paragraph number:

(Lucas & Stob, 2023, Chapter 3, para. 4)

In the case where you are summarizing key ideas from a whole chapter, you would simply use the chapter number in your parenthetical citation:

(Lucas & Stob, 2023, Chapter 3)

Remember, the goal is to provide enough information for your reader to locate the specific part of the text you are referring to, even without page numbers. Consistency and accuracy are key when citing sources. If you're unsure about how to cite something, don't hesitate to ask! We're all on this academic adventure together, and helping each other navigate the citation jungle is part of the journey. Feel free to ask me, or the AC Campus Librarians.

Now, some of you might be tempted to explore the ever-evolving frontiers of AI tools. They can be valuable companions, offering insights and assisting your research. However, when using AI-generated content, remember:

  • AI is a tool, not a source: Treat AI-generated text like a helpful discussion partner, not a definitive answer. Always verify the information it provides against other reliable sources and apply critical thinking.
  • Transparency is key: If you incorporate AI-generated content in your work, consider mentioning the tool you used in your references. This builds trust and ensures credit goes where it's due.
  • Focus on originality: Your unique voice and critical analysis are what truly shine. Use AI as a springboard, not a substitute for your intellectual exploration.

While the APA format is still evolving to handle citations for AI-generated content, there are a few options you can consider, depending on the specific context and nature of your interaction with AI.  In the examples below, we will focus on Bard.

1. Personal Communication:

This option is suitable if you're referencing a specific conversation or exchange you had with Bard. The format would be:

(Author, personal communication, Month Day, Year)

For example:

(Bard, personal communication, October 26, 2023)

2. Algorithm's Output:

This option is appropriate if you're citing a specific text or creative content generated by Bard. The format would be:

(Author, Algorithm's output, Title of generated content, Month Day, Year)

For example:

(Bard, Algorithm's output, Poem on the beauty of nature, October 26, 2023)

3. Software:

If you're referring to Bard as a tool or software overall, you can cite it as:

Google AI. (Year). Bard: A large language model for research and dialogue. https://www.projectpro.io/article/chatgpt-vs-google-bard/815

Important Notes:

  • These are just a few suggestions, and the specific format may vary depending on the requirements of your assignment or journal. It's always best to consult your instructor or publication guidelines for specific instructions.
  • Transparency is key! Regardless of the chosen format, mention prominently in your work that you used an AI tool like Bard and be specific about how it was used and what content it generated.
  • Remember, AI-generated content should be used responsibly and critically evaluated alongside other sources. Your own intellectual analysis and original contribution remain essential for academic integrity and meaningful learning.

Remember, navigating the information ocean requires both respect for existing knowledge and the courage to explore uncharted waters. Embrace the power of citations to acknowledge your intellectual debts, and use AI tools wisely to enhance your research, not replace your own critical thinking. Let's embark on this academic adventure together, building a map of knowledge with integrity and intellectual curiosity as our guiding stars!

Once you have successfully completed this course...

You need to update your resume!  Use the following guidelines to update your skills.

If you earned an "A":
  1. Excellent knowledge of basic communication terms, principles and superior application through analysis of contexts.
  2. Excels in preparing and presenting informative and persuasive speeches.
  3. Exhibits excellent ability to apply communication principles and theory to achieve best results for clients.
  4. Superior research ability to find, identify and effectively use supporting materials in verbal and written communication.  
  5. Demonstrates leadership in group environments, showing courtesy and respect for clients and co-workers.
If you earned a "B":
  1. The ability of and ability to apply basic communication terms, principles through analysis of contexts.
  2. Ability to prepare and present informative and persuasive speeches.
  3. Ability to apply communication principles and theory to achieve best results for clients.
  4. Ability research ability to find, identify and effectively use supporting materials in verbal and written communication.  
  5. Participates leadership in group environments, showing courtesy and respect for clients and co-workers.
If you earned a "C":
  1. Knowledge of basic communication terms, principles, and application through analysis of contexts.
  2. Knowledge of how to prepare and present informative and persuasive speeches.
  3. Knowledge of applying communication principles and theory to achieve best results for clients.
  4. Knowledge of research ability to find, identify and effectively use supporting materials in verbal and written communication.  
  5. Experience with working in group environments, with a focus on showing courtesy and respect for clients and co-workers.

Syllabus Created on:

02/25/25 3:33 PM

Last Edited on:

03/14/25 3:19 PM