Business and Professional Speaking Syllabus for 2025-2026
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Instructor Information

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. The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor.

Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Reporting

Amarillo College prohibits discrimination and harassment based on sex, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, under Title IX and Texas Education Code §51.253–255. Faculty and staff are mandatory reporters and must share any related concerns with the Title IX Coordinator at titleix@actx.edu. Reports and additional information are available at https://www.actx.edu/hr/title-ixtitle-ix. Confidential counseling and advocacy services are available through the Counseling Center and Advocacy & Resource Center.

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-1321-010 Business and Professional Speaking

Prerequisites

Course Description

Study and application of communication within the business and professional context. Special emphasis will be given to communication competencies in presentations, dyads, teams and technologically mediated formats.

Student Resources Student 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

On Campus Course

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

Course Requirements:

• Mozilla Firefox (most compatible with Blackboard, although I prefer Chrome)
• Microsoft Word or Google Docs, Google Slides or PowerPoint
• You must have regular access to a computer for this course.

Student Performance

Grades and Expectations

Grades and Expectations

Your success matters. Grades reflect consistent effort, engagement, and mastery across the 8-week term, not last-minute surges.

The goal is deeper understanding, stronger critical thinking, and communication skills you'll use beyond this course.

Final Grade Requests

I don't round up final grades by request. Your grade should reflect demonstrated mastery.

• Use rubrics before submitting to align your work with criteria.
• Meet with me in advance for clarification and strategy.
• Leverage any provided extra credit opportunities during the term.
• Visit AC tutoring centers if you need support.

This approach preserves academic integrity and prepares you for standards-based evaluation in future courses and careers.

A Note on Extra Credit

No solicited extra credit at the end. A few opportunities are built into the term and will be clearly announced.

Focus on steady engagement, timely questions, and using resources early. If you're struggling, contact me sooner rather than later.

Oops Tokens: Your Lifeline for Late Assignments

Each student receives one Oops Token for the 8 week class.

1. Late Assignment Rescue: Use your token to extend one assignment by 48 hours (eligible if the original due date was within the past week).
2. How to Redeem: Message me in Blackboard Ultra stating you're using the Oops Token and name the specific assignment. If you don't specify the assignment, clarification will eat into your 48 hours.
3. Limits: One token total, not for final-week work, not for group projects. I have the right to deny oops tokens on specific assignments I see fit (e.g. in class assignments). Oops tokens may or may not be awarded based on current in-class attendance. 
4. Use Wisely: Its for emergencies, not a strategy. Aim to submit on time.
5. Still need help? Reach out. Extensions before due dates may be possible on a case-by-case basis. Extensions are given more readily to those that attend class and stay on top of assignments. If you are not in class and actively participating, I am less likely to grant an extension. 

Learning Objectives and Assessment Map

AI Tools, Your Learning, and Academic Integrity

We will use AI tools (e.g., BoodleBot, ChatGPT) to support learning " not replace your original thinking.

• Use AI to brainstorm, organize, and revise " but produce original work.
• Cite all sources you use, including those suggested by AI, with credible references.
• Follow this courses policy; other instructors may have different rules.

Students 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 Public Speaking!

Hello everyone! I am excited to start this 8-week adventure with you to learn The Art of Public Speaking. Public Speaking is one of the biggest fears individuals may have, and I am proud of you for taking this step to further your skills, conquer the nerves and become a better communicator! 

This class packs a punch. There's a lot to do in these short 8 weeks, but I am here to support your success. To begin developing your public speaking abilities, you'll spend time each week on:

• Digging into assigned readings and resources: Your base level of content to navigate communication.
• Practicing what we explore: Assignments and presentations to begin using the base level knowledge.
• Tackling assignments and projects: Tools to refine your abilities. 
• Engaging in in-class discussions and activities: Communicating in real time to practice what we preach. 

This journey is not set in stone where you have the same exact thing each week. Some weeks may be lighter while others will require more time and effort. The key is to be strategic, seek help, and never engage in a class alone. You will be placed in teams for this class, and I encourage you to use your team and your instructor (me!) early and often. Early adjustments make for a smoother class experience - please reach out if you need help! 

Resources for Your Class

• Me (instructor, communicator, and seeker of answers should I not know them)
• Amarillo College Tutoring Centers
• Online Tutoring
• The Underground (tech support + more)

Be proactive, not reactive. I'm here every step with office hours, online resources, and friendly check-ins. And don't forget self-care. Pace yourself,  tackle things on time, and you'll conquer this knowledge with ease.

How to Engage

• Call me Taylor: Mrs. Bingham sounds too stuffy.
• Engagement is the life of this class: Ask questions, share thoughts, join discussions-even without all the answers. 
• Brain over brute force: AI is a tool, but your unique voice is the real treasure.
• Life happens: Reach out if you hit a snag and I'll connect you with support.
• Kindness is our compass: Respect and kindness build bridges. 
• Neuro-diversity is our rainbow: Celebrate the different ways we learn and think.
• Be Present and Focused: Limit distractions and give full attention.
• Your roadmap: Your syllabus is our contact on what we agree on for the course. It is your key for clarity and success.

Communication Channels

Preferred: Blackboard Ultra Messaging (direct and linked to your coursework). Remember to use professional email techniques even when messaging in Blackboard. Clear is kind! 

Alternatives: Watermark (checked occasionally) or Email (include your full name, course, and section number).

Tone Matters

Your tone is powerful - it can charm or cause issues. Keep our space respectful and safe. Grammarly is available as a tone-check companion. In person, be mindful: tone sets the mood of every interaction.

Respectful Communication Policy

1. First occurrence: Coaching session with me to reset expectations.
2. Second occurrence: Formal written warning.
3. Third occurrence: Referral to Campus Behavior Team for disciplinary review.

My Up-line

If we cant resolve an issue, my reporting structure is below. Do not skip a level. I will coach you on what to do next if we cannot come to a resolution.

• Courtney Milleson, Chair of Speech Communication
• Stephen Crandall, Dean, Liberal Arts
• Becky Burton, Associate VP of Academic Affairs
• Dr. Frank Sobey, VP of Academic Affairs
• Dr. Jamelle Conner, President

Accessibility & Sharing

I do not accept links as submissions for assignments. Too often they do not work, and you can also continue to make changes after deadlines. If it is something in progress, we can share links to work. However, final assignments must be posted as a .pdf or a .doc  

Speech Performance Days: Let's Present and Listen!

• Timing: Don't enter mid-speech. Wait until a performance ends.
• Be Present: Be on time (or early) on your speech performance date or you cannot present. 
• Be Present (Again): On days where you're the audience, you should focus on the speakers. I sit at the back of the room and know when you're working on homework, talking to friends, texting, or scrolling TikTok. Don't be a distraction. This is respecting your classmates (See below.)
• Silence phones: Avoid interruptions.
• Respect peers: No homework or distractions during speeches.
• Dress to impress: Respectful, professional, but comfortable.
• Stay until dismissal: Leaving early = loss of participation points.
• Where I sit: In the back, observing quietly. (I see everything!)

Regular Class Days

• Come prepared with readings completed.
• No homework or distractions during class discussions.
• Cell phones and laptops are not permitted unless we are using them in class. If you need technology to take notes, please reach out during Week 1. 
• APA style is required (see library resources).
• No social media or recording without permission.
• Contribute positively-disruptions are reported.
• Don't pack up early.
• Tutoring is mandatory if your grade falls below 75%.
• Restroom breaks allowed. You don't have to ask - just take care of yourself!

Embracing the Textbook

Your textbook is the map for our adventure. Reading before class adds insight to discussions and shows respect for our journey.

Verbal Citations

Speeches need support, so cite your sources. Cite verbally: author, publication date, and where you found it. See Week 3 materials and the AC Library's APA LibGuide for details.

Speaking Schedule

Speech dates are set - the show must go on. Speaking order is randomly selected each week. I appreciate you may have previous travel plans set, and tires go flat, but we keep a strict schedule to ensure everyone has an opportunity to present.

Grading Criteria

Grades, Policies, and Final Exam Details

Grade Categories

For details how each assignment is weighted in these categories, check out Blackboard. 

Final Grade Ranges

Final Exam Due Date

Tip: Add a calendar reminder now. Memory tools like keyword cues or simple associations help lock in this unusual Thursday deadline.

Late Work: Finding Your Way Back

College is a process. Life happens. Because of that and the pace of this course, the structure is designed to give you the best chance to learn and demonstrate mastery. While late submissions are generally not accepted, I may adjust upcoming due dates after we meet about documented extenuating circumstances.

If I grant an extension: a placeholder grade of 1 will be entered for that assignment. In Feedback to Students, I will post the new due date. If you cannot see this, email me or message me in the Watermark app so I can help.

Pathways to Success: A Scenario

Maria is a single mom of two. Her youngest breaks a wrist and needs appointments, possibly surgery. Work shifts change and Maria misses class meetings.

Options Maria might consider:

1. Keep pushing through and try to make everything work.
2. Drop the course and take it next term (delays graduation).
3. Set an appointment with me to talk through the situation and find a path forward.

Recommendation: Option 3. We can discuss ways to keep you on track, like giving two speeches on one performance day or shifting a speech by a week. Work not submitted before we meet remains a zero. Future due dates can be negotiated and may include a late deduction (standard is 10 points off the final grade for that assignment). Decisions are case-by-case.

Pathways to Success: What to Do

• Contact me as soon as a problem comes up.
• Be flexible. I will be flexible when I can, especially early in the term.
• Near the end of the term, flexibility is limited. If I say no, it means we've run out of viable options.
• Keep in mind: I am never too busy for you, but I am too busy to chase you down. 

What Not to Do

• Do not submit assignments by email, blackboard messaging or watermark. I will not grade them.
• If there is a system or technical issue:
  • Check course announcements.
  • Check your AC email.
  • If nothing is posted, text or email me to alert me. Don't assume I already know.
• If you are confused about where to turn something in, reach out prior to the deadline. 

Attendance

Attendance and Participation

I know this is an in-person course, and you planned to attend each day. But life sometimes sends us through challenges we did not expect. Your presence and contributions are the life of this class and it is where learning happens.

However, if life throws unexpected curveballs, dont hesitate to send me a message ASAP. Well work together to keep you moving.

Excused Absences: Your Golden Ticket

Short-Term Issues (1-2 days)

No need for a doctors note. A quick email is plenty. Rest, recover, and return ready. Communication is the key.

Extended Issues (longer than 1 week)

Bring a doctors note. Communicate early and often so we can keep you on track.

The Benefit of Excused Absences

• Peace of Mind: Reduces stress about missing class and helps you focus on recovery.
• Catching Up: Opens the door to negotiate deadlines and avoid falling behind.
• Support and Understanding: Life happens-excused absences allow creative solutions.
• Maintaining Good Standing: Keeps unexcused absences from piling up.

Together, well uncover knowledge, navigate communication pit falls, and emerge victorious- improving your communication skills for any situation. 

Calendar

Additional Information

Mandated Reporter

Amarillo College prohibits discrimination and harassment based on sex, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, under Title IX and Texas Education Code §51.253–255. Faculty and staff are mandatory reporters and must share any related concerns with the Title IX Coordinator at titleix@actx.edu. Reports and additional information are available at www.amarillocollege.net/hr/title-ixtitle-ix. Confidential counseling and advocacy services are available through the Counseling Center and Advocacy & Resource Center.

Navigating the Information: Citing Sources and AI Tools

As we journey through all of the information, we give credit where its due. In this course we use APA style to acknowledge sources clearly and maintain academic integrity.

Citing the Textbook (APA)

Basic in-text citation: use the authors last names and year.

Lucas & Stob (2023) emphasize the importance of active listening.

Reference list entry:

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

Using AI Tools Responsibly

• AI is a tool, not a source: verify facts with credible sources and apply critical thinking.
• Be transparent: briefly note if/how you used an AI tool in your process when appropriate.
• Originality first: your voice, analysis, and cited evidence drive the work.

Once You Have Successfully Completed This Course

Update your resume to reflect outcomes. Suggested bullet points by final course grade:

If you earned an A

• Demonstrates excellent knowledge of core communication concepts and applies them across contexts.
• Excels in preparing and delivering informative and persuasive speeches.
• Applies communication theory to achieve results for audiences, clients, or teams.
• Conducts advanced research and integrates high-quality supporting materials in written and oral work.
• Leads effectively in groups; models professional courtesy and respect.

If you earned a B

• Demonstrates solid knowledge of core communication concepts and applies them across contexts.
• Prepares and delivers effective informative and persuasive speeches.
• Applies communication theory to support audience or client outcomes.
• Finds and uses credible supporting materials in written and oral work.
• Contributes positively in group settings with professionalism.

If you earned a C

• Demonstrates foundational knowledge of communication concepts and applies them in common contexts.
• Prepares and delivers basic informative and persuasive speeches.
• Applies communication principles to meet core assignment requirements.
• Uses appropriate supporting materials in written and oral work.
• Works cooperatively in group environments with professionalism.