Principles of Speech and Communication: What Effective Communication
Looks and Sounds Like
It is good to rub and polish our brain against that of others.
--Michel de Montaigne
Task: Find a short (2 - 3 minute) sample (audio or video) of your assigned form of
communication.
Purpose: Share your ideas with your classmates, in order to “polish your brains” toward more
effective communication
Details: We will use part of class time on the next 6 – 7 double period classes to view, listen
to, critique, and discuss your communication models. On your assigned day, you’ll come to
class with a URL or other type of link to your selection. Be prepared to explain orally why you
made your selection.
In addition, you’ll need to provide an explanation in writing about your choice. This
explanation should be at least ¾ page typed, double-spaced. Feel free to elaborate on any
points of interest. These are some questions to consider:
 Why did you make this choice?
 What are the most notable characteristics of this speech/communication?
 Who is the intended audience?
 What effect does this speech/message have on its audience? OR
 What effect does the sender’s message have on the receiver? OR
 What effect does the receiver’s message have on the sender?
 In this case, what seems most important: words, tone, body language, or a
combination?
 Can you compare this video/audio message with anything else?
This assignment is worth 30 points, distributed as follows:
__/ 10 Appropriate example of effective communication is selected and previewed for class
use; selection meets the length guidelines
__/ 10 Selection is explained in writing, according to guidelines above
__/ 10 Selection is explained informally to the class through an oral description. This
explanation follows expectations for effective speech delivery (maintain poise, speak clearly and
loudly, maintain eye contact, etc.) Oral explanation should NOT simply be a read-aloud of your
written explanation.
Your communication selection is due on the due date you sign up for. If you are not ready on
the assigned date you may make arrangements to switch with a classmate; if the switch isn’t
possible, you’ll submit your choice and explanation in writing only. (i.e., maximum 20 points
available)
Scene from a TV sitcom
Scene from a TV sitcom
Scene from a Talk Show
Scene from a Talk Show
Scene from a TV news interview
Scene from a TV news interview
Inspirational Speech, real life
Inspirational Speech, real life
Inspirational speech, movie
Radio interview (e.g., National Public Radio)
Dramatic breakthrough communication (TV?
Movie?
Free Choice
Dramatic breakthrough communication (TV?
Movie?