MKT 309-01: Business Communication
Fall 2013: M/W/F: 9am Bryan 110
Course Syllabus and Schedule are subject to change.
Course Catalog Description:
Business and professional communication: Job search skills; teamwork; communication technology; verbal and
nonverbal strategies. Emphasis on effective persuasion, interpersonal, intercultural and organizational strategies
through business styles, formats and presentations.
Credits: 3
Prerequisites: Junior standing and admission to approved program.
Instructor: Ms. Lori Mackowski
(Refer to me with title and last name, preferably Professor Mackowski or Professor M)
Office: 380 Bryan
Office Hours: Monday and Wednesday: 3:30-4:30 p.m. and Friday: 12:30-1:30 p.m. and by appointment
Phone: 336.334.4319 (no voice mail available)
E-mail: lamackow@uncg.edu (best way to contact me)
Course Philosophy and Overview:
Business is built on relationships and relationships are built using effective communication. In this Writing Intensive
(WI) and Speaking Intensive (SI) course, you will learn and practice oral and written business communication. As in
the business world, you are evaluated on your performance, not on effort. Therefore, as a performance-based
course, you are graded on your performance activities, not on effort. The key to excellence is practice!
As a WI and SI course, there is extensive material to cover and the pace is intense. Keep up with the readings and
assignments and plan ahead. Don’t procrastinate and don’t let yourself fall behind. It will affect the quality of your
work and will negatively impact your grade.
The Bryan School of Business and Economics Student Learning Objectives
Common to all business students, you will:
1. Be skilled in critical thinking and decision-making, as supported by the appropriate use of analytical and
quantitative techniques.
2. Recognize and assess the ethical and social dimensions of management activities and evaluate their impact
on management decisions.
3. Communicate clearly and correctly and demonstrate collaboration and leadership skills.
4. Understand the core organizational functions and activities and how they interrelate to accomplish an
organization’s major goals through effective processes.
5. Evaluate the role global markets have on management decisions and formulate appropriate strategies to
improve performance in the world economy.
MKT 309 Learning Objectives
After successful completion of this course, you should:
1. Understand the importance of effective communication in the workplace.
2. Identify communication strategies to business situations.
3. Create responses to communication needs.
4. Conduct business research for evidence-based writings and presentations.
5. Use accurate documentation of sources.
6. Write concise and organized documents using the appropriate format.
7. Use the Three-Step Writing Process.
8. Write reports based on the evaluation of data.
9. Develop and demonstrate effective oral presentations with verbal and nonverbal proficiencies.
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Teaching Methods:
Course content is delivered via Blackboard and the classroom environment through: lectures, learning teams,
assigned readings, class discussions, activities, a library experience, team research project as well as instructor and
peer feedback.
Course Materials and Requirements:
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Textbook: Writing That Works by Oliu, Brusaw and Alred, 11th Edition, ISBN: 978-1-4576-1113-1
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Blackboard proficiency
Resources:
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Syllabus and Course Schedule: Before asking or e-mailing a question, reference this Syllabus and Course
Schedule. If you e-mail a question already addressed in these documents, you will not receive a response.
Please note: It is your responsibility to read and re-read these documents carefully.
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Getting Started document located in the “Start Here!” link in Blackboard
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Resources for Plagiarism and Academic Integrity located in the “Start Here!” link in Blackboard
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The University Speaking Center: http://speakingcenter.uncg.edu
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The University Writing Center: http://writingcenter.uncg.edu
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Bryan Career Services: http://uncg.edu/bae/gcs
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University Libraries: http://library.uncg.edu
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6-TECH Technical Support: https://6-tech.uncg.edu or at 336.256.8324
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Spartan Alert: http://spartanalert.uncg.edu *Use this link to check for University Status, Alerts and
Announcements including updates regarding Adverse Weather. For Adverse Weather, we will follow the
University Schedule unless otherwise notified via a Blackboard e-mail Announcement. *
Course Policies and Procedures:
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Plagiarism and or Cheating: Will not be tolerated. Adhere to the UNCG Academic Integrity (AI) Policy
which can be found online at http://academicintegrity.uncg.edu. Written work will be posted as a
SafeAssign assignment in Blackboard unless otherwise instructed. SafeAssign is a plagiarism prevention
service which checks for unoriginal content in student papers - this includes work submitted by ANY current
or previous MGT/MKT 309 students as well as online resources such as websites, etc. For more information
on SafeAssign, go to http://wiki.safeassign.com. Any violation of the AI Policy, such as an
occurrence of plagiarism, could result in failure of the course. Please note:
o An occurrence can equate to plagiarizing just one sentence from a consulted source.
o I need only to suspect plagiarism and or cheating has occurred in order to begin the
investigative, formal process as outlined in the AI Policy.
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Late Work: To ensure fairness to all students, late work will not be accepted. If not submitted by the
designated due date/time, you will receive an automatic zero for the assignment. Additionally, I do not
make exceptions, take excuses or accept documentation of any kind, so please do not ask.
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Attendance and Tardiness: In the business world, absence and tardiness may result in disciplinary action
and or termination. In this course, attendance is expected as well as arriving to class on time. If you want
to be successful in this course, attend every class. There is no substitute for being in class and, attendance
does not merely mean showing up, but requires active participation. To ensure fairness to all students,
be advised of the following:
o In-class activities, etc.: Will be used to apply and expand course information and, at my discretion,
may be counted as your participation credit. If you are absent, you are not eligible to receive
participation credit for in-class activities, as these are in-class activities ONLY. I do not make
exceptions, take excuses or accept documentation of any kind, so please do not ask.
o Homework: Will be used to further classroom discussion and or lecture content and, at my discretion,
may be counted as your participation credit. Therefore, you must be present/attend the entire class
and turn homework in as a typed, printed hard copy in order for homework to be accepted and to
receive credit. I do not make exceptions, take excuses or accept documentation of any kind, so please
do not ask.
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Strategy Sessions and Rough Drafts: Failure to attend these sessions in their entirety and or failure
to bring typed, printed, hard copy Rough Drafts will negatively impact your grade. Rough Drafts are
not accepted early or late, therefore, you must be in class/attend the entire session in order to receive
credit. I do not make exceptions, take excuses or accept documentation of any kind, so please do not
ask.
o Speeches: There are no make-up days for speeches/presentations. If you miss (e.g. forget your
speech day) and or are absent on day(s) you are assigned to present, you will receive zero for your
speech/presentation. I do not make exceptions, take excuses or accept documentation of any kind, so
please do not ask.
Disruptive Behavior in the Classroom: Any behavior that inhibits the learning process and or is
disruptive to the classroom environment will not be tolerated. Examples include but are not limited to:
excessive talking, usage of cell phones, iPods, pagers, etc., inappropriate use of laptops, disrespect for
speakers (including fellow classmates, guests and instructor), aggressive language and or actions. Please
note: It is imperative you read, understand and adhere to this policy which can be found online
at http://sa.uncg.edu/handbook/wp-content/uploads/disruptive_policy.pdf.
Electronic Devices: Cell phones, iPods, pagers, etc. are prohibited during class. Laptops are
permitted only for note taking. Failure to adhere to this policy is considered a violation of the Disruptive
Behavior in the Classroom Policy. Please note: It is imperative you read, understand and adhere to
the Disruptive Behavior in the Classroom Policy which can be found online at
http://sa.uncg.edu/handbook/wp-content/uploads/disruptive_policy.pdf.
Faculty and Student Guidelines: Read, understand and abide by these guidelines which can be found
online at http://bae.uncg.edu/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/faculty_student_guidelines.pdf.
Student Code of Conduct: Read, understand and abide by this code of conduct which can be found
online at http://sa.uncg.edu/handbook/student-code-of-conduct.
Accommodations for Students with Disabilities: To establish reasonable accommodations, students
with disabilities are to contact the Office of Disability Services 336.334.5440 the first week of school.
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Submitting Assignments:
o Follow directions carefully and submit your work as requested. Points will be deducted if you do not.
o Written work is to be 1) turned in as a typed, printed, hard copy at the beginning of class
on the assigned due date and 2) posted as a SafeAssign assignment in Blackboard prior to
class unless otherwise instructed. Be advised: If not posted by the designated day/time as
a SafeAssign assignment, you will receive an automatic one-letter grade deduction for the
assignment.
o Full name and section number must be on your assignment and on accompanying documents.
o To ensure successful posting of Blackboard SafeAssign assignments:
1. Be advised: Blackboard assignment links will not be available after the designated due date/time.
2. Save as a Word file and follow this specific document naming convention:
FirstNameLastNameAssignmentName.doc. For example: LoriMackowskiResume.doc
3. Use Firefox as it is the preferred browser. Other browsers, such as Safari, Google Chrome and
Internet Explorer, may not work with some Blackboard features.
4. After posting an assignment, it is your responsibility to ensure the submission was received: Go to
the “My Grades” link and in the assignment field, a green exclamation mark will indicate if the
assignment was received and posted correctly. If you do not see a green exclamation mark, the
assignment was not received/posted correctly. If not received/posted correctly, the assignment
will be subject to the designated deduction.
5. If you encounter problems submitting your SafeAssign posting, you are to 1) contact 6-TECH
Technical Support at 336.256.8324 or at 6-tech.uncg.edu and open a Service Desk Ticket and 2)
inform me of the problem via an e-mail which includes your Service Desk Ticket number.
To be successful in this course:
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Reference this Syllabus and Course Schedule on a regular basis.
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Attend every class.
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Bring your textbook to each class.
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Check Blackboard prior to class for: 1) Announcements, read each Announcement carefully, 2) Expansion of
the daily schedule and or 3) Information regarding homework, etc.
Utilize all resources provided (PowerPoint lectures, assigned readings, in-class activities and workshops,
videos, etc.). Resources and information have been carefully selected to help you understand course
materials and aid in completing assignments. Please note: If you choose not to use the resources and
information provided, you choose to lower your grade significantly.
Adhere to established deadlines. As a WI and SI course, there is extensive material to cover and the pace is
intense. Keep up with the readings and assignments and plan ahead. Don’t procrastinate and don’t let
yourself fall behind. It will affect the quality of your work and will negatively impact your grade.
Read all assignments in advance and bring questions to class for discussion. If you e-mail a question
regarding how to complete an assignment, the day before it is due, it is unlikely you will receive a timely
response.
By enrolling in this course, you agree to the course timeline and responsibilities. You are to manage your
time accordingly– everyone has personal and professional responsibilities to balance.
Assignments are exercises in the balance of following directions and applying ingenuity. Detailed directions
will be provided to help with assignment completion. Follow these directions carefully and fulfill assignment
requirements as noted. Points will be deducted if you do not.
Complete all assignments (graded or not).
Cite all sources of information in correct APA format.
Be respectful and courteous to everyone at all times.
Honor team commitments and responsibilities.
If you have questions, need help, clarification or do not understand something, you are encouraged to stop
by during Office Hours, as I am waiting to help.
Learning Teams: In this class, you will be assigned seats and teams. Learning Teams consisting of 3-4 individuals
will serve as a learning community to grow in knowledge, contribution, diversity appreciation and communication
skills. Teams will need to:
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Designate a “team computer and back-up computer” to bring to class
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Complete specified in-class activities and workshops
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Participate in Strategy Sessions
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Produce a Team Research Project and Speech/Presentation.
Assignments and Associated Percentages:
Items:
Total
Percentages:
Strategy Session Rough Drafts (For W assignments)
5
Writing (W): W1, W2, W3, W4, W5
15
Course Final: Professional Portfolio (P):
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Final Portfolio Versions: P1, P2, P3, P4, P5
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Cover Letter (Professional and Personally Branded)
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Folder (Professional and Personally Branded)
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Research Skills (R): R1, R2
15
Speaking (S): S1, S2, S3, S4
16
Participation & Relating:
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In-Class Activities
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Homework
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Peer Evaluation: Team Research Project
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Writing:
There are 5 Writing (W) assignments. Specific instructions for each assignment will be posted in the Blackboard link
“Assignments” in a folder titled “Writing (W1-W5).” To ensure fairness to all students, late work will not be
accepted. Additionally, I do not make exceptions, take excuses or accept documentation of any kind, so please do
not ask. Writing assignments are as follows:
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W1: Instructional / “How To” Memo
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W2: Goodwill E-mail
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W3: Persuasive Application Letter
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W4: Persuasive Resume
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W5: Negative Communication Letter
As a WI, business communication course, revising your work is an important part of the Three-Step Writing Process
and necessary in order to produce high quality, professional documents.
With each assignment, you will produce:
1. Strategy Session Rough Draft: Bring 2 typed, printed, hard copies (best quality work) to Strategy
Sessions on designated days, to receive peer and instructor feedback during the session necessary for
completing your Writing (W) assignments. Do not post Strategy Session Rough Drafts as a
SafeAssign in Blackboard.
2. Writing (W): This is a Revised Draft based on information and comments from Strategy Session submitted
for a grade and feedback. Please note the following: 1) Typed, printed, hard copy due at the beginning of
class on the assigned due date and 2) posted as a SafeAssign assignment in Blackboard prior to class. Be
advised: If not posted by the designated day/time as a SafeAssign assignment, you will receive an
automatic one-letter grade deduction for the assignment.
3. Final Portfolio Version: Apply feedback and comments received from W assignments, to create final
versions submitted for Professional Portfolio (Course Final), demonstrating significant improvements and
mastery of course material/concepts.
Additionally, for each W assignment, follow these instructions carefully:
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Begin by completing the Communication Strategy Worksheet (CSW) to plan your communication message to
meet the needs of the designated audience. (Template posted in the Blackboard link “Assignments” in the
folder titled “Writing (W1-W5).”
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Revise: After participating in the Strategy Session, use the Peer Evaluation form and comments provided to
check the quality and accuracy of your work. Revise your assignment as needed to produce a high quality,
professional document. Peer Evaluation forms are helpful in completing and checking the assignment and
will provide you with a point of reference as to my expectations.
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Finish by carefully checking your final work using the Business Writing Checklist (BWC). (Template posted
in the Blackboard link “Assignments” in the folder titled “Writing (W1-W5).”
o Be advised: Failure to complete these documents (CSW/BWC) in their entirety and turn in
with your assignment, will result in a one-grade factor deduction (for each incomplete/not
submitted document) on your assignment grade.
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Use (at least) a three-paragraph format (Introduction, Body and Conclusion) for all writing assignments
including e-mails. The Body may be more than one paragraph. Be advised: If you submit work outside of
this format, your assignment will be graded as not meeting requirements (D/F). Resumes are the
exception.
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Use and incorporate critical thinking into your writing assignments. Examine from multiple angles and
incorporate that information into your message.
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Must be typed, single-spaced. Be advised: If you double-space, your assignment will be graded as not
meeting requirements (D/F).
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W ASSIGNMENTS: WHAT TO POST AND TURN IN:
1. SAFEASSIGN: PRIOR TO CLASS on the assigned due date, post your W assignment as a SafeAssign
assignment in Blackboard using the appropriate assignment link(s) provided in the Writing (W1-W5) folder.
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Be advised of the following:
o Blackboard assignment links will not be available after the designated due date/time.
o Save your work as a Word file and follow this specific document naming convention:
FirstNameLastNameAssignmentName.doc. For example: LoriMackowskiResume.doc.
o If not posted by the designated day/time as a SafeAssign assignment, you will receive an automatic
one-letter grade deduction for the assignment.
Please note: Communication Strategy Worksheet/Business Writing Checklist not needed for SafeAssign
posting.
2.
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PRINTED HARD COPY: AT THE BEGINNING OF CLASS on the assigned due date, turn in a printed, hard
copy of your W assignment.
Be advised of the following:
o Assemble your assignment in this way: The completed Communication Strategy Worksheet first, the
Business Writing Checklist second and printed, hard copy of your W assignment third. All must be
stapled in this order.
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Full name and section number must be on your assignment and on accompanying documents.
Strategy Sessions:
There will be 20-30 minutes of designated class time as noted on the Course Schedule for strategy work on writing
assignments. This will be collaborative time with me and your peers in which feedback will be given during the
session to help you: understand and write to your audience, construct effective organization, choose appropriate
language/words and create visually appealing documents. Failure to attend these sessions in their entirety
and or failure to bring typed, printed, hard copy Rough Drafts will negatively impact your grade.
To ensure fairness to all students, be advised of the following:
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To receive credit for attending these mandatory sessions, you must bring 2 typed, printed, hard
copies of your Rough Draft (best quality work) on designated days. Turn in one copy and use
the other copy for strategy work. Do not post Strategy Session Rough Drafts as a SafeAssign in
Blackboard.
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Rough Drafts are not accepted early or late, therefore, you must be in class/attend the entire
session and turn in a typed, printed, hard copy of your work in order to receive credit.
Additionally, I do not make exceptions, take excuses or accept documentation of any kind, so please do not
ask.
Visit The University Writing Center:
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For a one grade factor increase to the W1 and W2 grade (e.g. If the earned grade on W1 was a C, final
grade with grade factor increase would be a C+). To qualify, I must receive an e-mail from The
Writing Center with your name and section number as proof of your visit/appointment. Please
note: This applies only to W1 and W2 and does not apply to the Final Portfolio Versions (P1 and P2).
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If English is your second language, you are encouraged to seek this assistance.
Research Skills:
Business professionals need to know how to gather information to advance the decision-making process; therefore,
the research assignment is a team report consisting of 3 components. Specific instructions for each of these
assignments will be posted in the Blackboard link “Assignments” in a folder titled “Research Skills (R1, R2 and
S4).” To ensure fairness to all students, late work will not be accepted. Additionally, I do not make exceptions, take
excuses or accept documentation of any kind, so please do not ask. Team Research assignments are as follows:
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R1: 1) Progress Report, 2) Work Schedule and 3) Team Contract
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R2: Formal, Investigative Research Report
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S4: Speech/Presentation informing and or persuading target audience about research findings, data,
information, etc.
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Additionally, for the R1 and R2 assignments, follow these instructions carefully:
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Begin R1/R2 assignments by completing the Communication Strategy Worksheet (CSW) to plan your
communication message to meet the needs of the designated audience. (Template posted in the Blackboard
link “Assignments” in a folder titled “Writing (W1-W5).”
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Revise:
o R1: After participating in the R1 Strategy Session, use the Peer Evaluation form and comments
provided to check the quality and accuracy of your team’s work. Revise your assignments as
needed to produce high quality, professional documents.
o R2: Revise and edit your team’s work on a regular basis using strategies provided from lecture
content as well as seek additional assistance from The Writing Center.
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Finish R1/R2 assignments by carefully checking your final work using the Business Writing Checklist (BWC).
(Template posted in the Blackboard link “Assignments” in a folder titled “Writing (W1-W5).”
o Be advised: Failure to complete these documents (CSW/BWC) in their entirety and turn in
with your assignment, will result in a one grade factor deduction (for each incomplete/not
submitted document) on your team’s assignment grade.
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Attend the library research experience.
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Utilize critical thinking skills to examine data/information and effectively apply research findings in order to
inform and or persuade target audience.
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Must be typed, single-spaced. Be advised: If you double-space, your team’s assignment will be graded as
not meeting requirements (D/F).
R1 AND R2 ASSIGNMENTS: WHAT TO POST AND TURN IN:
1. SAFEASSIGN: PRIOR TO CLASS on the assigned due date, post R1/R2 as a SafeAssign assignment in
Blackboard using the appropriate assignment link(s) provided in the Research Skills (R1, R2 and S4) folder.
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Be advised of the following:
o Blackboard assignment links will not be available after the designated due date/time.
o Save your work as a Word file and follow this specific document naming convention:
FirstNameLastNameAssignmentName.doc. For example: LoriMackowskiResume.doc.
o If not posted by the designated day/time as a SafeAssign assignment, your team will receive an
automatic one-letter grade deduction for the assignment.
o Please note:
R1: Post only the Progress Report and Work Schedule (as one Word file). Team Contract,
Communication Strategy Worksheet/Business Writing Checklist not needed for SafeAssign posting.
R2: Post only the Formal Research Report. Communication Strategy Worksheet/Business Writing
Checklist not needed for SafeAssign posting.
2.
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PRINTED HARD COPY: AT THE BEGINNING OF CLASS on the assigned due date, turn in a printed, hard
copy of your team’s R1/R2 assignment.
Be advised of the following:
o Assemble your team’s R1 assignment in this way: Attach the completed Communication Strategy
Worksheet first, the Business Writing Checklist second, printed, hard copy of your R1 assignment third,
a separate document with team name and listing of all team members fourth. All must be stapled in
this order.
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Assemble your team’s R2 assignment according to the specific instructions provided with the
assignment.
Team name (with a listing of all team members) and section number must be on team assignments and
on accompanying documents.
Speaking:
There are 4 Speaking (S) assignments. Specific instructions for individual speaking assignments, S1-S3, will be
posted in the Blackboard link “Assignments” in a folder titled “Speaking (S1-S3).” To ensure fairness to all
students, be advised of the following:
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Late work will not be accepted. Additionally, I do not make exceptions, take excuses or accept
documentation of any kind, so please do not ask.
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There are no make-up days for speeches/presentations. If you miss (e.g. forget your speech day) and or
are absent on day(s) you are assigned to present, you will receive zero for your speech/presentation.
For individual and or team presentations, if you wish to use a presentation advancer, it is your responsibility
to bring or borrow one. Instructor advancer is not available for general use.
As a SI, business communication course, it is necessary to practice a variety of delivery methods and receive and
apply feedback in order to improve oral communication skills. Therefore, Speaking assignments are as follows:
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S1: Impromptu speech. Be advised: Student selection for S1 is determined prior to class on a random bias.
If you are absent and or arrive late (after your name is called), you will receive a zero for S1.
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S2: Extemporaneous speech and Preparation Outline on the business topic of your choice.
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S3: Re-do your S2 speech and Preparation Outline. Use feedback on S2 outline and Speech Evaluation
form to make significant improvements on S3.
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S4: Team speech/presentation informing and or persuading target audience about research findings, data,
information, etc. Specific instructions for S4 will be posted in the Blackboard link “Assignments” in a folder
titled “Research Skills (R1, R2 and S4).”
o As part of this assignment, your team is required to visit The University Speaking Center for
assistance with the organization of the speech/presentation as well as the delivery. Make your
team’s appointment at least 2 weeks prior to your desired appointment day/time as: 1)
appointment times fill up quickly and 2) a minimum 2-day advance notice is required
by The Speaking Center. This means, your appointment must be made 2-days in
advance of the assignment due date.
Additionally, for the S2 & S3 assignments:
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Follow specific instructions carefully as outlined for each assignment.
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Full name and section number must be on your assignment and on accompanying documents. All
documents must be stapled.
S2 & S3 ASSIGNMENTS: WHAT TO POST AND TURN IN:
1.
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2.
SAFEASSIGN: PRIOR TO CLASS on the assigned due date, post your Preparation Outline as a SafeAssign
assignment in Blackboard using the appropriate assignment link(s) provided in the Speaking (S1-S3) folder.
Save your work as a Word file and follow this specific document naming convention:
FirstNameLastNameAssignmentName.doc. For example: LoriMackowskiResume.doc.
Be advised of the following:
o Blackboard assignment links will not be available after the designated due date/time.
o If not posted by the designated day/time as a SafeAssign assignment, you will receive an automatic
one-letter grade deduction for the assignment.
PRINTED HARD COPY: AT THE BEGINNING OF CLASS on the assigned due date, turn in a printed, hard
copy of your Preparation Outline.
Visit The University Speaking Center:
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For a one grade factor increase on the S3 grade (e.g. If the earned grade on S3 was a C, final grade with
grade factor increase would be a C+). To qualify, on your S3 speech day, you must turn in
authentic documentation (printed, hard copy) from The Speaking Center as proof of your
visit/appointment. Make your appointment at least 2 weeks prior to your desired appointment day/time
as: 1) appointment times fill up quickly and 2) a minimum 2-day advance notice is required by The Speaking
Center. This means, your appointment must be made 2-days in advance of the assignment due date.
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If English is your second language, you are encouraged to seek this assistance.
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Course Final:
As a WI, business communication course, it is necessary to revise your work in order to produce high quality,
professional documents. Therefore, the course final requires you to produce a professional portfolio. Using the
feedback given on the graded, hard copies of the W assignments, you will rewrite/revise the assignments to be
included in this portfolio demonstrating significant improvements and mastery of course material/concepts. Specific
instructions will be posted in the Blackboard link “Assignments” in a folder titled “Course Final.”
Be advised of the following:

To ensure fairness to all students, late work will not be accepted. Additionally, I do not make exceptions,
take excuses or accept documentation of any kind, so please do not ask.

It is necessary for you to save the graded, hard copies of W1-W5 in order to complete your
professional portfolio. Failure to keep graded, hard copies and turn in with professional
portfolio will result in an automatic one-letter grade deduction on the appropriate portfolio
assignment.
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Rewrite/revise your W assignments as soon as you receive graded work with feedback and
comments to ensure enough time to make changes necessary for completing the Professional
Portfolio. Plan ahead and don’t procrastinate. See Course Schedule for due date of
Professional Portfolio.
Participation & Relating:
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You are expected and required to participate in this course by:
o Attending every class
o Being fully prepared for each class which also includes referencing this Syllabus and Course Schedule
regularly.
o Completing all course materials prior to class (homework, readings, videos, etc.)
o Contributing thoughtfully to class discussions
o Engaging in class activities, workshops, etc.
o Honoring team commitments and responsibilities.
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In-class activities, etc.: Will be used to apply and expand course information and, at my discretion, may
be counted as your participation credit. If you are absent, you are not eligible to receive
participation credit for in-class activities, as these are in-class activities ONLY. Additionally, I do
not make exceptions, take excuses or accept documentation of any kind, so please do not ask.
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Homework: Will be used to further classroom discussion and or lecture content and, at my discretion, may
be counted as your participation credit. Therefore, you must be present/attend the entire class and
turn homework in as a printed, hard copy in order for homework to be accepted and to receive
credit. Additionally, I do not make exceptions, take excuses or accept documentation of any kind, so
please do not ask.
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Specific instructions for homework assignments will be posted in the Blackboard link “Assignments” in a
folder titled “Homework.”
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Peer Evaluations: As part of your Team Research Project, you will be required to complete a peer
evaluation on each team member detailing and grading their contributions and participation. Specific
instructions for this assignment will be posted in the Blackboard link “Assignments” in the folder titled
“Research Skills (R1, R2 and S4).” Be advised: Failure to complete a Peer Evaluation with a
numeric grade for each team member, will result in an automatic one-letter grade deduction
on YOUR Peer Evaluation.
Evaluation of Performance (Grading):

The following matrix will be used and specific Writing and Speaking Grading Rubrics are posted in the “Start
Here!” link in Blackboard. Carefully review the Writing and Speaking Grading Rubrics to fully understand
assignment expectations.

Feedback will be provided on printed, hard copies and returned. Once an assignment is returned, your
grade will be visible in Blackboard.
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
ALL feedback will serve as opportunities for growth and improvement. Specific and extensive feedback will
be provided on initial assignments. Use this feedback to improve your business writing skills and techniques
as I expect to see feedback applied to all future assignments including W’s, R’s, S’s, homework, etc. After
initial feedback is given on a designated area(s) for improvement, future feedback on this area(s) may or
may not be noted. With a WI and SI course, thoughtful application of feedback is necessary to improve
your communication skills and be successful in this class.
Assignments will be graded as quickly as possible (within 12-14 business days or earlier, if possible). Since
assignments do not build off each other and differ in format and concept, at times, you may turn in one
assignment, prior to receiving feedback/a grade from a previous assignment.
Please note: Grades are not “given,” they are “earned” based on your demonstrated
performance. As in the business world, you are evaluated on your performance, not on effort.
Therefore, as a performance-based course, you are graded on your performance activities, not
on effort. Remember, the key to excellence is practice!


Matrix:
+
-
A: Exceeds
Expectations
100 - 97
96 - 94
93 - 90
B: Achieves
Expectations
89 - 87
86 - 84
83 - 80
C: Working Toward
Expectations
79 - 77
76 - 74
73 - 70
Overview of Grading Rubric:
A
B
Exceeds
Achieves Expectations
Expectations
Expands assignment
Completes all that is
into excellence and
required; achieves good
applies ingenuity.
quality work with a few
areas for improvement.
+ (plus)
Achieves Expectations
D: Below
Expectations
69 - 67
66 - 64
63 - 60
C
Working Toward
Expectations
Completes average work
with a several areas for
improvement.
Null
Meets Expectations
(a few un-impactful errors)
10
F: Below
Expectations
59 or below
D/F
Below Expectations
Does not meet the
assignment requirements.
- (Minus)
Working Toward Expectations
(a few impactful errors)
COURSE SCHEDULE
Subject to change: Check Blackboard prior to each class for announcements, expansion of the
daily schedule, homework, etc.
AR=Additional Readings in Blackboard / V= Videos in Blackboard
As a WI and SI course, there is extensive material to cover and the pace is intense. Keep up with the
readings and assignments and plan/work ahead when possible. Don’t procrastinate and don’t let
yourself fall behind.
Date:
WEEK 1
Monday:
8/19
Wednesday:
8/21
Agenda/Lecture Topic/Discussion:
Print Syllabus and the Getting Started
document. Read each document carefully
and bring to class for discussion
Academic Integrity (AI) Test: Due: 8/26
Academic to Business Writing
Audience-Centeredness
1. Chapter 1 (entire chapter)
2. Part Four: Revision Guide, pages 619-669
3. Read Homework #1 for discussion
1. Chapter 3, pages 88-91 (Writing an
Opening and Writing a Closing)
2. Chapter 8, pages 284-285 (Openings &
Closings)
3. Chapter 8, pages 298-300 (Designing
Memos)
4. AR: How to Create an Audience-Centered
Strategy
Homework #1: Due 8/28
Friday:
8/23
Language Choices (Tone, Style & Word Choices)
Team Assignments: Exchange contact
information (phone number, e-mail, etc.) with
your team members.
DUE TODAY: Academic Integrity Test
Writing Instructions
Wednesday:
8/28
Friday:
8/30
WEEK 3
Monday:
9/2
DUE TODAY: Homework #1
Cultural Communication: Guest Speaker, Dr.
Catherine Holderness. Readings and lecture
connect to Team Research Report.
1. Chapter 4, pages 112-119 (Language)
2. Chapter 8, pages 276-279 (Developing
Style and Tone)
3. AR: What do You Mean You Don't Like My
Style
1. Chapters 2 & 12 (entire chapters)
2. Chapter 4, pages 105-106 (Active and
Passive Voice)
3. AR: Passive and Active Voice
4. Read W1 assignment for discussion
1. Chapter 7, pages 259-265 (Using Visuals
to Communicate Internationally)
2. AR: Three Keys to Getting An Overseas
Assignment Right
3. AR: Kiss Bow Australia
4. AR: Kiss Bow Russia
W1 Instructional / “How To” Memo:
Due 9/11
1. AR: Impromptu Speaking Strategies
(Needed for S1)
2. AR: Organizational Structures for the Body
of a Speech
3. AR: Transitions for a Speech
4. Read S2 & S3 assignments for discussion
S2 & S3 Speaking assignments are due
on the day(s) you signed-up.
W1 Strategy Session: 9/6
No Class: Labor Day Holiday
Business Speaking: Speech Preparation
Impromptu Speaking: S1 (5)
Wednesday:
9/4
Assignment Announcements/Due
Dates and Reminders:
Welcome and Introductions
Review: Syllabus and Getting Started document
Audience-Centeredness continued
WEEK 2
Monday:
8/26
Readings, Videos and or Homework:
Must be completed as preparation
PRIOR to class on assigned day.
Bring personal calendars to class in order
to sign-up for S2 & S3 speech days.
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S1 Speeches (4)
Friday:
9/6
WEEK 4
Monday:
9/9
Wednesday:
9/11
Reminder: Start working on S2 ASAP as
speeches begin in Week 6 on 9/25.
W1 Strategy Session: Bring 2 typed,
printed, hard copies of your W1 Rough
Draft.
Bring personal calendars to class in order
to sign-up for S2 & S3 speech days.
Business Speaking: Delivery
S1 Speeches (5)
Bring personal calendars to class in order
to sign-up for S2 & S3 speech days.
Business Speaking: How to Conduct Effective
Meetings and Wrap-Up of Business Speaking
S1 Speeches (7)
DUE TODAY: W1 Instructional / “How To”
Memo
Writing the Draft
S1 Speeches (5)
1. Chapter 14
2. V: Watch University Speaking Center
Video Series: Public Speaking for Individual
Presentations
1. AR: The Ten Commandments of
Presentations
Reminders: Allocate enough time to
properly research, prepare and deliver
your speech. Check Sign-Up sheets to
confirm your speech days(s).
1. Chapter 3 (entire chapter)
2. Read Team Research Project (R1, R2 &
S4) for discussion
R1: Due 10/23
Friday:
9/13
WEEK 5
Monday:
9/16
Wednesday:
9/18
Friday:
9/20
WEEK 6
Monday:
9/23
Wednesday:
9/25
Friday:
9/27
R1 Strategy Session: 10/16
R2: Due 11/20
S4: Due on Exam Day
Plan first team meeting ASAP and
begin working on Team Contract
and R1 immediately.
Revising the Draft
S1 Speeches (4)
Researching Your Subject: Guest Speaker: Mr.
Steve Cramer, Library Experience necessary
for Team Research Project.
Bring personal computer to class.
Principles of Business Communication
1. Chapter 4 (entire chapter)
1. Chapter 6 (entire chapter)
Nonverbal Communication
1.
2.
3.
1.
Persuasive Communication
S2 Speeches (3)
1. AR: Bovill & Thill (entire chapter)
2. AR: Emotional Picture Words
Persuasive Communication: Job Search
1. Chapter 16 (entire chapter)
2. AR: Action Verbs Information Sheet
3. Read W3 & W4 assignments for discussion
W2 Strategy Session: Bring 2 typed,
printed, hard copies of your W2 Rough
Draft.
Chapter 8 (entire chapter)
AR: The Business Journal, 10-12-12
Read W2 assignments for discussion
AR: Guffey & Loewy (pages 63-67)
W2 Goodwill E-mail: Due 10/2
W2 Strategy Session: 9/27
Reminder: Teams need to be
meeting on a regular basis to
complete R1 & R2 due 10/23 &
11/20.
W3 Persuasive App. Letter: Due 10/9
W3 Strategy Session: 10/4
Reminder: Need to work on W3 Rough
Draft ASAP!
W4 Persuasive Resume: Due 10/18
W4 Strategy Session: 10/11
WEEK: 7
Monday:
9/30
Wednesday:
10/2
Persuasive Communication: Persuasive
Application Letter
S2 Speeches (3)
Persuasive Communication: Resume
S2 Speeches (3)
Reminder: Need to work on W4 Rough
Draft ASAP!
DUE TODAY: W2 Goodwill E-mail
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Friday:
10/4
WEEK 8
Monday:
10/7
Collaborative Writing & Informal Reports
1. Chapters 5 & 10 (entire chapters)
2. AR: Krizan, Merrier, Logan & Williams
(pages 418-433)
Formal Reports
1. Chapter 11 (entire chapter)
W3 Strategy Session: Bring 2 typed,
printed, hard copies of your W3 Rough
Draft.
Reminder: Teams need to be
meeting on a regular basis to
complete R1 & R2 due 10/23 &
11/20.
Wrap-Up: Informal and Formal Reports
Wednesday:
10/9
DUE TODAY: W3 Persuasive Application
Letter
W4 Strategy Session with Guest Speaker,
Linda Pollock.
Friday:
10/11
WEEK 9
Monday:
10/14
Bring 2 typed, printed, hard copies of your
W4 Rough Draft and personal computer to
class.
No Class: Enjoy Your Fall Break!
Reminder: Teams need to be
meeting on a regular basis to
complete R1 & R2 due 10/23 &
11/20.
S2 Speeches (3)
Wednesday:
10/16
Friday:
10/18
WEEK 10
Monday:
10/21
Wednesday:
10/23
Friday:
10/25
WEEK 11
Monday:
10/28
R1 Strategy Session: Bring typed, printed,
hard copy Rough Drafts of your Progress
Report, Work Schedule and Team Contract.
Negative Communication: Delivering Bad News
S2 Speeches (3)
1. Chapter 9 (entire chapter)
2. Read W5 assignment for discussion
W5 Negative Communication Letter:
Due 11/8
Negative Communication Workshop. Bring
designated team computer to class.
1. AR: Strategies for Communicating Bad
News
Negative Communication Workshop continued.
Bring designated team computer to class.
1. Read Course Final: Professional Portfolio
for discussion
Reminder: Work on S3 as soon as
feedback is received on S2. S3
speeches begin in Week 12 on 11/8.
Course Final: Professional Portfolio: Due
11/25
DUE TODAY: W4 Persuasive Resume
DUE TODAY: R1
Negative Communication Workshop continued.
Bring designated team computer to class.
Designing Effective Documents and Visuals
S2 Speeches (2)
1. Chapter 7 (entire chapter)
S2 Speeches (3)
Wednesday:
10/30
Friday:
11/1
W5 Strategy Session: 10/30
Reminder: Teams need to be
meeting on a regular basis to
complete R2 due 11/20.
Reminder: Work on Portfolio due on
11/25.
Homework #2: Due 11/6
W5 Strategy Session: Bring 2 typed,
printed, hard copies of your W5 Rough
Draft.
Designing Effective Documents and Visuals
continued
S2 Speeches (2)
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WEEK 12
Monday:
11/4
Wednesday:
11/6
Friday:
11/8
WEEK 13
Monday:
11/11
S2 Speeches (4)
Designing Effective Documents and Visuals
continued
Writing Proposals
S2 Speeches (3)
1. Chapter 13 (entire chapter)
DUE TODAY: Homework #2
S2 Speeches (1) and S3 Speeches (2)
Class time for R2/S4. Bring designated
team computer to class.
Friday:
11/15
WEEK 14
Monday:
11/18
Wednesday:
11/20
Friday:
11/22
WEEK 15
Monday:
11/25
Wednesday:
11/27
Friday:
11/29
Homework #3: Due 11/13
Reminder: Work on Portfolio due on
11/25.
DUE TODAY: W5 Negative Communication
Letter
S3 Speeches (5)
Writing for the Web
Wednesday:
11/13
Reminder: Teams need to be
planning / working on S4 which
also includes scheduling your
appointment(s) at The Speaking
Center. A 2-day advance notice is
required.
DUE TODAY: Homework #3. Bring
designated team computer to class.
Reminder: Teams need to be in
final stages of completing R2 due
on 11/20.
1. Chapter 15 (entire chapter)
2. AR: Social Media & Writing for the Web
(entire PowerPoint)
S3 Speeches (5)
Class time for Professional Portfolio.
Bring personal computer and graded W1W5 assignments to class.
S3 Speeches (5)
Reminder: Work on Portfolio due on
11/25.
DUE TODAY: R2
S3 Speeches (5)
S3 Speeches (5)
DUE TODAY: Course Final: Professional
Portfolio
No Class: Thanksgiving Holiday!
No Class: Thanksgiving Holiday!
S3 Speeches (3)
WEEK 16
Monday:
12/2
Final Exam
Days
Reminder: Work on Portfolio due on
11/25.
Last day of class!
Course Wrap-Up
S4 Due: All teams & team members must
be present on Exam day and stay for entire
length of Exam time.
Section
Section
Section
Section
01:
02:
03:
05:
December 9:
December 4:
December 9:
December 9:
8-11 a.m.
12 (Noon) -3 p.m.
12 (Noon) -3 p.m.
3:30 – 6:30 p.m.
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