Overview of course:

This course is designed as an introduction to the theory and practice of oral communication. There is a special emphasis on developing and delivering oral presentations.
Attendance policy:

It is essential that you attend all classes. Credit will not be given if you miss more than 5 hours of class work (6 hrs = failure, 5 hrs = final grade drops one full grade, 4 hrs, final grade drops ½ grade). You are allowed 3 hrs (e.g., one single hr class plus one double hour class = 1 full week) absence for any reason (no distinction is made between "excused" and "unexcused" absences). Lateness: Similarly, lateness should be avoided. You are late if you arrive after attendance has been taken (approx. 5 mins. after the class is scheduled to begin); 20+ mins. late = 1 full hr. absence).

Grading:

This is based on 100 points possibly being accumulated during the term. The breakdown is as follows:

Participation (class discussion, small group work, etc.)
10%
Speech of self-introduction 5%
Quizzes and tests 20
Written projects 10%
Speech to Inform 20%
Speech to Persuade 25%
Final Exam 10%

Topics and assignments
Week 1: Introduction to Course
Read Chapter 1: Process and Principles

Examine: Chapter 7: Types of Speeches; Methods of Delivery

Speech Anxiety

Week 2: Principles of Communication

Read: Chapter 1 (conclusion)

Examine: Chapter 11: Speaking to Inform

Deliver Speech of Self-introduction

Choose topic for Speech to Inform

Week 3: Perception and Communication

Read: Chapter 2. Perception

Preliminary outline of Body of Speech to Inform

Examine: Chapter 9: Outlining Your Speech

Review Chapters 1 and 2

Week 4: Connecting Self and Communication

Read Chapter 4: Self and Speech Communication

Test: Chapters 1 and 2

Practice Speech to Inform from rough draft of Speaking Outline

Week 5: Rehearsing Speeches; Dealing with Nervousness

Practice speeches in groups; begin presentation of Speeches to Inform

Work on Self and Communication

Week 6: Verbal Communication

Read: Chapter 4 on Verbal Communication

Self and Communication Project is DUE

Complete presentation of Speeches to Inform

Week 7: Speaking to Persuade

Examine: Chapter 12: Persuasive Speaking

Choose topic

Week 8: Non-verbal Communication

Read Chapter 5 on Non-verbal Communication

Outline: Introduction to Speech to Persuade

Week 9: Combining Verbal and Non-verbal Communication

Rough draft of outline

Examine Chapter 10: Delivering Your Speech

Test: Chapters 4 and 5

Week 10: Interpersonal Communication

Examine Chapter 13

Group Project

Week 11: Group Communication

Examine Chapter 15

Outline is DUE

Practice Speeches

Week 12: Speeches to Persuade

Deliver Speeches to Persuade

Week 13: Final Exam