Public Speaking Syllabus for 2023-2024
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Instructor Information

Course Information

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Course

SPCH-1315-007 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

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

O'Hair, D., Stewart, R., Rubenstein, H.  A Speaker's Guidebook: Text and Reference. 8th Edition.  Bedford/St. Martin's.  2022.  ISBN: 978-1-319-20173-9

 

Supplies

note-taking materials

Student Performance

 

SPCH 1315: Public Speaking 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.   Learning Outcomes: 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

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

• The use of cell phones in class is prohibited.  This includes phone calls, phones ringing, and text messaging in class.  Please feel free to take calls and texts in the hallway.  
• Speeches are delivered on assigned days.  If you know well in advance, other arrangements might be possible. 
• Tests will be made up only in emergencies.  Prior approval must be obtained from the instructor.
• No late papers accepted.
• No substances or equipment in violation of Amarillo College’s Student Code of Life will permitted in speech communication courses.
• 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 a grade of 0 and disciplinary proceedings against the student could ensue.
• The instructor AND student will initiate administrative withdrawals.  If you need to withdraw from (drop) the class, you must contact your instructor, and then your instructor will approve the withdrawal with the Registrar’s Office.  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. 
• ADA Policy:  Amarillo College seeks to provide reasonable accommodations for all qualified persons with disabilities.  This college will adhere to all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and guidelines with respect to providing reasonable accommodations as required affording equal educational opportunity.  It is the student’s responsibility to register with Disability Support Services.

Grading Criteria

 

Major Speeches –20 %

Mini Speeches – 30 %

Exams – 20 %

Outlines/Critiques – 15 %

Participation – 15 %

Attendance

Calendar

Additional Information