Lake-Sumter State College Course Syllabus Course / Prefix Number SPC 2608 Course Title: Public Speaking (HYBRID) CRN: Course Catalog Description: 10491/ 10494 Credit: 3 Term: FALL 2015 10812 This course is designed to introduce students to communication theory and its application to preparing and delivering public speeches. Emphasis is placed on improving speaking and listening skills common to all forms of oral communication through a variety of experiences in public speaking. Instructor: Heather Elmatti Contact Information: elmattih@lssc.edu Office Location: Leesburg FOB #10 Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 9-9:30am Mon & Wed 12:20-3:30pm Tue 1:50-3:30pm All students are required to use LakehawkMail for official college e-mail communications. See the college webpage for instructions on activating LakehawkMail. Prerequisites: Textbook and Other Course Materials: None You are NOT required to purchase a textbook. You can access The Public Speaking Project Virtual Text http://publicspeakingproject.org/psvirtualtext.html Or use Concise Public Speaking Handbook by Steven & Susan Beebe This course is designated as a Hybrid Course and requires 50-79% online classroom activity and utilizes multiple areas of asynchronous online environments including: Lake Sumter State College Website which includes the Blackboard Distance Learning Environment, and Faculty webpages. All students are required to attend scheduled seated classroom sessions. Reliable internet access and word processing software is required. Technology and Online Computer Access Requirements: Beginning the second week of the term, the instructor will assume that students are well acquainted with the Blackboard environment and have become proficient at the following: navigating through Blackboard; emailing through Blackboard; attaching documents; creating discussion postings; submitting assignments to the Assignments section; browsing the Internet; creating and formatting documents in a standard word-processing application; saving documents in rtf or "rich text format" or as a compatible WORD document It is also recommended that students use a USB Drive to back-up their work. Do not count on the stability of any online environment or of your computer s hard drive. Course Objectives: (what the course will do) The main goal of this class is help students develop confidence as oral communicators through An experiential learning environment. Emphasis will be on idea organization, 1
information/argument presentation, vocal delivery, and stage presence. This class is about learning how to improve your public speaking skills and requires students to actively engage by practicing speaking in front of groups in a variety of contexts. Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) Assessed in this Course: (what the students take with them beyond this course) *To employ effective idea organization in formulating oral presentations. Competency: Prepare logical, documented and well-organized message content. *To demonstrate and use effective vocal delivery, non-verbal techniques and aids. Competency: Give oral presentations which communicate clearly and engage the audience * To utilize effective team skills and planning techniques for creating group presentations. Competency: Prepare & perform group presentation through a creative means of delivery Academic Integrity: The successful functioning of the academic community demands honesty, which is the basis of respect for both ideas and persons. In the academic community, there is an ongoing assumption of academic integrity at all levels. There is the expectation that work will be independently thoughtful and responsible as to its sources of information and inspiration. Honesty is an appropriate consideration in other ways as well, including but not limited to the responsible use of library resources, responsible conduct in examinations, and the responsible use of the Internet. (See college catalog for complete statement.) Important Information for Students with Disabilities: Any student with a documented disability who requires assistance or academic accommodations should contact the Office for Students with Disabilities immediately to discuss eligibility. The Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) is located on the Leesburg Campus, but arrangements can be made to meet with a student on any campus. An appointment can be made by calling 352-365-3589 and specific information about the OSD and potential services can be found at www.lssc.edu, then go to Quick Links and click on Disability Services. Privacy Policy (FERPA): The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. 1232g; 34 CFR Part99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of a student s education records. In order for your information to be released, a form must be signed and in your records located in the Admissions/Registrar s Office. Attendance / Withdrawal Policies: Students are expected to be ON Time for class. Students will earn class participation points for class attendance and completing in-class activities. In order to earn points for participation and in-class activities students must be present for the entire class. Students who are not present for the entire class or choose to leave early or come late will not receive full participation points. Absences OVER 2 will result in automatic failure of the class for HYBRID classes. Absences OVER 4 will result in automatic failure of the class for SEATED Face-to-Face classes. Withdrawal Deadline: My hope is that students enrolled in this course will fully engage with the material and the class activities. If you feel that you cannot complete the expectations for this course, you may choose to withdraw. If for any reason you decide to discontinue class attendance, it is your 2
responsibility to withdraw from class prior to the published deadline. The Withdrawal Deadline for the term is NOVEMBER 2. Forms are available from the Admissions Office. School policy mandates that a student who stops attending class without officially withdrawing will earn an F. Student will be assessed not only on their ability to speak, but their ability to organize thoughts and present them in logical manner. Image and presentation are also very important. Your choice of attire, punctuality, and how you present yourself within the class all have an impact on the image you portray. These in turn will impact your graded assessment. Methods of Evaluation: Student will demonstrate their proficiency in oral communication through presenting speeches. Speeches will be evaluated using specified criteria. All written assignments must be typed. Proper grammar, punctuation, as well as content will be assessed. Formal Speeches (3) 100 pts each Speech Outlines (3) Group Presentation Final Speech Course Content Review Personal Speech Reflection Discussions & Activities 50 pts each 100 pts 50pts 50pts 100 pts 250 pts 1000 pts. TOTAL DEADLINES: Assignments are due on the date stated in the syllabus. Assignments may be turned in early, but no late assignment will be accepted without PRIOR APPROVAL. Any late paper approved for submission will receive a deduction of 10 pts for every day it is late. Speeches may only be given on the days designated in the syllabus unless prior permission is obtained. Exceptions will only be made in advance and for extreme circumstances. If there is an emergency and you cannot attend class when an assignment is due, please inform me. If you miss class, please contact me within 24 hours either in person, via phone or email to turn in an assignment. Failure to contact the instructor within the designated time allowed will result in the student receiving a zero for that assignment. Students should contact the instructor directly (i.e. do not send word to me via another student). I am not responsible for your failure to contact me. GRADING: Grades will be based on a point scale. Students will earn points for each assignment and in-class activities. Students are responsible for keeping track of their own point totals in order to gauge their progress. A 900-1000 B 800-899 C 700-799 D 600-699 F 0-599 Course Calendar: ALL ASSIGNMENTS (outlines, discussions, activities) are due SUNDAY by midnight (12 a.m.) of the week stated. NO EXCEPTION. Week 1 Aug. 24-30 READ CHAPTERS 1, 2 & 11 http://publicspeakingproject.org/psvirtualtext.html 3
Introduction to Course Expectations Communication Process Dealing with Nervousness *Activity Interviews & Letter to Self Week 2 Aug. 31-Sept. 6 READ CHAPTERS 8-10, 13 http://publicspeakingproject.org/psvirtualtext.html Elements of a Speech Organizing your Speech Speaking to Inform Visual & Presentation Aids *Activity Brainstorming & Introductions DUE: DISCUSSION Introductions Week 3 Sept. 7-13 (COLLEGE CLOSED Monday) READ CHAPTER 5 & 15 http://publicspeakingproject.org/psvirtualtext.html Delivery Analyzing the Audience *Activity Formal Reading DUE: Outline-Informative Week 4 Sept. 14-20 READ CHAPTERS 6-7,16 http://publicspeakingproject.org/psvirtualtext.html Speaking to Persuade Reasoning *Activity Speech Surveys DUE: DISCUSSION--Nervousness Week 5 Sept. 21-27 READ CHAPTERS 3-4 http://publicspeakingproject.org/psvirtualtext.html Listening IN CLASS: INFORMATIVE SPEECHES DUE: DISCUSSION Informative Speech Reflection Week 6 Sept. 28-Oct. 4 READ CHAPTERS 14, 17-18 http://publicspeakingproject.org/psvirtualtext.html Power Presentations/Reader s Theatre Promoting Your Organization *Activity Speech Surveys DUE: Outline-Persuasive & DISCUSSION--Outside Speaker Evaluation Week 7 Oct. 5-11 Impromptu Speaking Using Humor *Activity Impromptus DUE: DISCUSSION Mid-Term Reflection 4
Week 8 Oct. 12-18 Speaking to Inspire IN CLASS: PERSUASIVE SPEECHES DUE: DISCUSSION Persuasive Speech Reflection Week 9 Oct. 19-25 Speaking on Special Occasions *Activity Impromptus DUE: Outline-Extemporaneous & DISCUSSION--Impromptus Week 10 Oct. 26-Nov. 1 IN CLASS: PRESENTATION PREP Week 11 Nov. 2-8 IN CLASS: PRESENTATIONS What Makes a Good Speech DUE: DISCUSSION Group Presentation Week 12 Nov. 9-15 IN CLASS: EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEECHES Being Heard DUE: DISCUSSION Extemporaneous Speech Reflection Week 13 Nov. 16-22 Professional Etiquette Activity Impromptus & Letter to Self Reflection DUE: Course Content Review Week 14 Nov. 23-29 (COLLEGE CLOSED Thursday & Friday for Thanksgiving Break) IN CLASS: FINAL SPEECH DUE: Personal Speaking Reflection Week 15 Nov. 30-Dec. 3 IN CLASS: FINAL SPEECH/CLASS REVIEW DUE: DISCUSSION--End-of-Term Reflection NO ASSIGNMENTS, EXTRA CREDIT, TESTS OR MAKE-UP WORK WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER Dec. 3. Classroom Rules and Policies: -Please DO NOT bring food into the classroom unless it is part of a presentation. -Please respect others. Be attentive and avoid conversing during lectures and student presentations. 5
-Please dress appropriately. The image you portray will impact your presentation and evaluation. -It is extremely rude to walk out or into class while someone is talking or giving a presentation. If you arrive late please wait to until the person in front of class is finished before entering. The same applies to leaving the classroom. If you choose to walk in or out of class during a presentation you will not receive class participation points for that day. -Cell phones are not to be used in the classroom. If you leave class to take a call you will be considered absent for that session. If your cell phone rings or you choose to text during class you will not receive class participations points for that day. Violence Statement: Syllabus Disclaimer: Lake-Sumter State College has a policy of zero tolerance for violence as stated in College Board Rule 2.17. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken in accordance with Board Rule 2.17. Information contained in this syllabus is, to the best knowledge of this instructor, considered correct and complete when distributed to the student. The instructor reserves the right, acting within policies and procedures of Lake-Sumter State College, to make necessary changes in course content or instructional techniques without prior notice or obligation to the student. SPEECHES The following are expectations for all speeches given in class: All speeches must be 3-5 minutes in length. Speeches shorter or significantly longer than the this time frame will receive a deduction of points. Students should VERBALLY cite a minimum of 3 sources documenting information about their topic OUTSIDE their own personal experience. Students MUST incorporate a presentation aid with each speech to highlight important points. Examples could be: pictures, PowerPoint, demonstration, video, props, etc. INFORMATIVE-- Select a topic from which you can speak with authority. Do research to update your knowledge. Present the material in a clear and logical manner. Employ means which grab and hold the audience s attention. Speaking notes must be submitted AFTER your give your speech and will be part of your overall feedback. Assignment Descriptions PERSUASIVE--Debate or support a position on a topic/issue you feel strongly about. Make the best case you can. Identify how you wish the audience to respond and attempt to persuade them. Make sure you explain clearly to the audience what you are trying to persuade them to think, do or believe. EXTEMPORANEOUS Prepare SPEAKING NOTES for 3 separate topics on which you could speak. You should have a good command of each topic and be prepared to speak on any one. The instructor will review your notes and select one from which you will speak. Students should be prepared to include a presentation aid to highlight important points. OUTLINES: It is important to have a clear structure for what you intend to say. Preparation Outlines will be submitted prior to giving each speech so the instructor can give you feedback in order to assist you. Outlines MUST include: specific purpose, central idea, introduction, main points in a strategic order and conclusion. A works cited must also be submitted with the outline including all sources used (minimum of 3 sources per speech). 6
PRESENTATIONS: Students will participate in a children s reading & presentation program or give a presentation on a famous speaker. Students will receive feedback on their presentation in terms of delivery and content. More details to follow. PERSONAL SPEAKING REFLECTION: Students will write a critique of their personal speaking performance over the course of the term. During one of the speeches, students will be videotaped and then asked to review the video. Students will also receive feedback sheets from classmates to utilize in writing their personal evaluation. These evaluations will be turned in and assessed on overall thoroughness. DISCUSSIONS: Throughout the course students will participate in online discussions about specific speech related topics, feedback to peers on speeches and reflection on presentations given. Student will be asked to respond to the stated reflection questions as well as respond to what other students have stated. CLASS PARTICIPATION/ACTIVITIES: Student will receive points for attending class and participating in activities and discussions. Students MUST be in attendance for the entire class period in order to receive full participation points. OUTSIDE SPEAKING/OPEN MIC Students often participate in an outside speaking experience either at a local venue or off-campus as a part of class activities. More details to follow. Please write a DETAILED evaluation of your personal speaking skills and what you have learned over the course of the semester. The paper should be a minimum of 2 pages (1000 words) and include specific examples and analysis. Address the following areas listed below: 1. View the video of one of your speeches. Comment on your strengths and areas where you could improve. What did you learn from giving this speech? GIVE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES. 2. Compare your informative and persuasive speeches. How well did YOU fulfill YOUR purposes? If you were in the audience what would your impression be? GIVE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES. PERSONAL SPEAKING REFLECTION 3. Reflect on the impromptu speech activities you did as well as the extemporaneous speech. What did you learn about speaking off-the-cuff? GIVE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES. 4. A good speaker is audience-centered. How did you accomplish this during your speeches? Give detailed examples from specific speeches of feedback you received from the audience and how you adapted to this feedback. What did you observe in terms of mental dialog from the audience? GIVE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES. 5. Comment on YOUR non-verbal and delivery techniques. What are YOUR strengths and weaknesses? GIVE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES. 6. The Open Mic experience is designed to get you out of your comfort zone and in front of a new audience. What did you like and what did you find challenging about the experience? GIVE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES. 7. Reflecting over the course of the semester, what did YOU do most effectively? Why and How? What areas could YOU continue improve on? GIVE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES. 7
Read and answer the following questions and make sure you address all portions in order to receive full credit (5 points each). 1. Define what non-verbal communication is AND give an example of vocal quality and an example of action non-verbal communication. 2. What is the difference between a general purpose, specific purpose and central idea? Give an example of each. 3. What is the difference between an informative and persuasive speech? How would you structure a speech about education different for each type of speech? 4. Give 3 examples of how a speaker can establish credibility with his or her audience? 5. What is the purpose for the introduction, body, and conclusion of a speech? COURSE CONTENT REVIEW 6. When using visual aids, what are three things you should do AND three things you should not do? 7. What are 3 things you should consider when structuring a persuasive speech argument? 8. What does it mean to be an audience-centered speaker AND how does an audience engage in a mental dialog with the speaker? 9. List 5 tips of things to do when preparing to give an impromptu speech. 10. Explain the main elements in the Communication Process model and describe how they relate to public speaking. 8