COMM 103, Spring 2016, Syllabus, 1
COMM 103: Oral Communication Syllabus!
Spring 2016
This syllabus is lengthy but contains important information about our entire course: due dates,
assignments, plagiarism, our custom version textbook available at the SDSU bookstore (which
includes the McGraw-Hill access code), and registering your clicker. Please read thoroughly.
Large Lecture Instructor:
Small Section Instructor:
Michael Rapp
You will have a different Small Section Instructor—
Important information related to your Small Section Instructor can
be found on your Small Section Blackboard site.
Time/Day/Room:
The Large Lecture meeting times are as follows. You will attend
ONLY ONE of these Large Lectures ONCE A WEEK:
Mon ENS 280, 10:00-10:50am
AL 201,
2:00-2:50pm
ENS 280, 4:00-4:50pm
Wed ENS 280, 10:00-10:50am
AL 201,
2:00-2:50pm
You will also attend a SMALL SECTION TWICE A WEEK (M/W)
You must attend the Large Lecture on your schedule—your
clicker will not work in any other COMM 103 Large Lecture.
Large Lecture Instructor:
Michael Rapp
Office:
Office Hours:
E-mail:
Small Section Instructor:
Communication # 233
M/W, 11:00am-2:00pm
And by appointment
mrapp@mail.sdsu.edu
Office:
Office Hours:
Email:
School of Communication Main Office: Communication # 237, (619) 594-8512
Required Materials:
*Floyd, K. (2014, 2nd ed.). Communication matters. New York: McGrawHill [custom version with McGraw-Hill Connect access code included
available only at SDSU bookstore], OR
*You can also buy just the McGraw-Hill Connect access code and e-book
via BlackBoard (wait for 1st day of class for these directions, do NOT buy
from publisher directly).
*I>clicker classroom response pad (physical clicker, not web-based).
You must register your clicker through BlackBoard. If you do not, you
may not get points. Register by Monday, February 8th, to ensure you
receive the full clicker points.
COMM 103 syllabus
©2012 SDSU School of Communication This syllabus cannot be copied or altered without the expressed written consent of the instructor.
COMM 103, Spring 2016, Syllabus, 2
Instructional Perspective:
COMM 103 Oral Communication combines an overview of communication concepts with
training in public presentations. The purpose of this combination is to equip students with the
knowledge and skills to communicate competently in enacting and critically consuming a variety
of contexts, including interpersonal, group, public, and mediated contexts.
The class is split into two parts, equally important: Large Lecture and Small Section. In the
Large Lecture, students get an overview of foundational communication theories and concepts.
Students are assessed on terms, theories, and concepts addressed in the Large Lecture. Students
are also required to integrate understanding of these concepts into presentations and other class
work completed in the Small Sections. Students will perform all presentations and activities
related to public speaking in the Small Sections.
Student Learning Outcomes: Students will learn to:
1) Craft well-reasoned arguments for specific audiences:
a. Conduct thorough research on a topic
b. Create cohesive, coherent, and complete outlines for public presentations
c. Employ effective language choices in the construction of public presentations
d. Identify, analyze, and present credible, well-reasoned arguments in a public
setting
2) Assess the relative strengths of arguments and supporting evidence:
a. Conduct thorough research on a topic
b. Synthesize relevant information about a topic or phenomenon into an argument
c. Create cohesive, coherent, and complete outlines for public presentations
d. Employ effective language choices in the construction of public presentations
e. Identify and analyze the components of effective public presentations
f. Identify, analyze, and present credible, well-reasoned arguments in a public
setting
g. Employ competent listening as audience members during presentations
3) Analyze a variety of texts commonly encountered in the academic setting:
a. Conduct thorough research on a topic
b. Synthesize relevant information about a topic or phenomenon into an argument
c. Demonstrate effective APA source citation skills
4) Situate discourse within common, social, cultural, and historical contexts:
a. Utilize effective and appropriate verbal and nonverbal communication skills
b. Identify competent communication in a variety of communication contexts
c. Articulate class theories and concepts as they pertain to competent
communication
d. Apply communication concepts to everyday scenarios to increase
communication competence
This course is one of three courses that you can take in the General Education area of
Communication and Critical Thinking.
When does my class meet?
The schedule can be a bit confusing with separate Large Lecture and Small Sections times. Small
Sections will meet twice a week (M/W) and your Large Lecture will meet once a week on
Mondays or Wednesdays. Please write down your schedule to avoid any confusion.
COMM 103 syllabus
©2012 SDSU School of Communication This syllabus cannot be copied or altered without the expressed written consent of the instructor.
COMM 103, Spring 2016, Syllabus, 3
What are the required class materials?
 Textbook: Floyd, K. (2014, 2nd ed.). Communication matters. New York: McGraw-Hill.
There is the custom version available from the SDSU Bookstore.
 McGraw-Hill Connect access code: this code comes with the custom version or can be
purchased separately, it but is required to complete all the quizzes and study modules.
Must register through Small Section BlackBoard site!!
 I>clicker response pad: This should be purchased at the same time as your textbook, and
can be purchased at the bookstore or online. See the i>clicker section in this syllabus for
further instructions and information. You must register it through my Large Lecture
BlackBoard site. Do NOT register it through McGraw-Hill’s website!
 Access to a dependable computer that runs a word processing program and is connected to
a working printer. All course assignments must be typed, printed, and submitted
electronically. Computers for student use are available at the library, but you must supply
your own removable storage device (USB/Flash Drive).
 Reliable and stable Internet access and current browser software. You will need to
regularly access BlackBoard sites (http://blackboard.sdsu.edu) for the Large Lecture and
Small Sections to read assignment descriptions, download templates, review helpful
resources, and print required forms. Given that you will be doing online quizzes and study
modules, be sure your internet access is reliable. You may not get points for those
assignments if your connection goes down (the library’s internet access is usually
reliable).
 Working e-mail address. The email you supply to the university through WebPortal is the
email to which you will receive all e-mails from your instructors and fellow students. If you
choose to use a different e-mail address, be sure your e-mail is updated and correct in
BlackBoard. You will often receive messages from your instructors sent through
BlackBoard, and if your e-mail is incorrect, you may miss important announcements. You
can register for a free SDSU student e-mail account at the Student Computing Center in Love
Library.
WHAT IS EXPECTED OF ME IN CLASS?
Course Expectations: Students agreeing to the terms for this class as set out in this syllabus are
expected to do the following (not dropping the class constitutes an agreement to the terms,
including the grading policy):
1. Be on time to class
2. Be respectful and let others talk without interruption, including instructors
3. Read the assigned chapters/materials and engage in class discussions
4. Treat others’ viewpoints and experiences with respect
5. Make connections between the material and your own lives and experiences
6. Complete assignments on time and follow directions
7. Communicate with the instructor in advance about potential attendance conflicts
8. APA is the required citation format for all outlines and assignments
9. Do not use cell phones at any time during class
10. Deliver all 4 speeches to earn credit for this class
These expectations hold for both your Large Lecture and Small Section. Laptops are allowed in
the Large Lecture. The use of any other recording devices must be approved by me which
includes photos and audio/video recordings.
COMM 103 syllabus
©2012 SDSU School of Communication This syllabus cannot be copied or altered without the expressed written consent of the instructor.
COMM 103, Spring 2016, Syllabus, 4
WHAT ASSIGNMENTS WILL I HAVE TO COMPLETE?
For complete details on assignments, see the assignment handouts and grading rubrics located on
BlackBoard. All topics must be approved by your instructor before the presentation is given.
You must deliver/present all four (4) speeches in order to pass this class.
Speech of Introduction and Outline
For this assignment, you will be introducing yourself to your classmates. You will be speaking to
the class about two (2) objects: one object that best represents your past and one object that best
represents your future. You should bring in the objects (or a representation of them) to class for
your speech as a presentation aid.
Informative Speech and Outline (Partner Assignment)
The ability to communicate and interact with different cultures is extremely important in this day
and age due to the internet, the cultural make-up of America, and our close proximity to another
country. For this assignment, you will pick a culture (or co-culture) that is unique and different
from your own culture. Please pick a country or culture that you are interested in traveling to or
learning more about so that you can present this information to your classmates. This
assignment asks you to explore a new culture in more depth in the format of a partner,
informative speech. Incorporating concepts from the textbook and Large Lecture about
Intercultural Communication, you and your partner will inform the class about a mutually agreed
upon topic regarding another culture (or co-culture). Outline with APA-style References page
due on date listed on daily schedule. Presentation aids are required.
Persuasive Speech and Outline
Informing audiences about new ideas and concepts is all well and good, but for ages, public
speaking has been used for another purpose: persuading audiences to take action. From
politicians to teachers to leaders of social movements, persuasion is used to educate and
motivate. The importance of becoming engaged in issues that affect us and the community in
which we live is increasing as our communities become more diverse and fractured. The goal of
this speech is to choose a current events topic and deliver a persuasive presentation to your class.
This is a persuasive speech where you will argue in favor or against your topic. You will attempt
to challenge our class to change or maintain a specific way of thinking or acting. This is an
individual speech. The topic for this speech will likely address a controversy of a political,
social, economic, or cultural nature. This speech will include researched sources that support
your arguments. Outline with APA-style References page due on date listed on daily schedule.
Presentation aids are required.
Special Occasion Speech
At some point in our lives, we may be asked to speak at an event or gathering. Some common
occasions are weddings and funerals, but it is easy to imagine similar events like award
ceremonies and dinner toasts. For this speech, you will choose the occasion and deliver a speech
appropriate to the situation. No outline is required to be turned in for this speech.
IMPACCT Survey
IMPACCT, or the Interactive Media Package for the Assessment of Communication and Critical
Thinking, is a multi-stage online assessment of your communication skills, as you perceive them
and as people who know you perceive your skills. Successful completion of this involves you
linking to an online survey, registering yourself, providing some basic information, and then
COMM 103 syllabus
©2012 SDSU School of Communication This syllabus cannot be copied or altered without the expressed written consent of the instructor.
COMM 103, Spring 2016, Syllabus, 5
responding to items regarding how skilled you are in applying reasoning and communication
abilities across a wide variety of situations. Later in the semester, you will take the self-report
portion of the assessment again. You will also be asked to provide the email addresses of two
people who know you well enough for them to fill out a briefer version of the survey about you
(about 15 minutes). You can find the survey at: http://impacctassess.org/
Online Quizzes and Study Modules
McGraw-Hill (Connect) provides a variety of online learning tools. In your textbook bundle, you
should receive a code to use for registering online. Go to your Small Section BlackBoard site and
look for the McGraw-Hill or Connect tab to register. See the syllabus for the due dates of each
quiz and study module. Be sure you have a stable Internet connection when completing these
assignments; you may not be able to make up points if your connection goes down.
Examinations
You will be required to take two exams. Each exam will consist of 50 multiple choice questions.
The second exam is NOT cumulative. The first exam will be held on a Friday afternoon, and the
second exam will be held on a Saturday afternoon the week before finals.
WHAT IS PLAGIARISM? SHOULD I BE WORRIED ABOUT IT?
Plagiarism is one of the highest forms of academic offense. It represents several ethics
violations. It is theft of intellectual property. In academe, a scholar’s words, ideas, and creative
products represent essential intellectual property, which are the primary measures of scholarly
identity, status and achievement. It is fraud. Students should be assessed on their own ideas and
abilities, not the ideas and abilities of others. It is unfair. It introduces bias and inequity in the
assessment process, producing grades for fellow students based on disadvantaged standards and
expectations. It is corruption. It undermines the credibility of higher education by
misrepresenting the meaning of university grades and degrees to the rest of the public. Whether
by ignorance, accident, or intent, theft is still theft, fraud is still fraud, inequity is still inequity,
and corruption is still corruption. Therefore, the offense, no matter how minor in quantity, is still
serious, and is treated as such.
The 2008-2009 SDSU Graduate Bulletin policy1 states:
Plagiarism is formal work publicly misrepresented as original; …. Work shall be
deemed plagiarism: (1) when prior work of another has been demonstrated as the
accessible source; (2) when substantial or material parts of the source have been
literally or evasively appropriated (substance denoting quantity; matter denoting
qualitative format or style); and (3) when the work lacks sufficient or unequivocal
citation so as to indicate or imply that the work was neither a copy nor an
imitation. This definition comprises oral, written, and crafted pieces. In short, if
one purports to present an original piece but copies ideas word for word or by
paraphrase, those ideas should be duly noted. (Lindey, 1952, Plagiarism and
Originality)
1
San Diego State University Graduate Bulletin, 2008-2009, p. 35.
COMM 103 syllabus
©2012 SDSU School of Communication This syllabus cannot be copied or altered without the expressed written consent of the instructor.
COMM 103, Spring 2016, Syllabus, 6
The 2008-2009 Graduate Bulletin continues by stating:
San Diego State University is a publicly assisted institution legislatively
empowered to certify competence and accomplishment in general and discrete
categories of knowledge. The president and faculty of this university are therefore
obligated not only to society at large but to the citizenry of the State of California
to guarantee honest and substantive knowledge in those to whom they assign
grades and whom they recommend for degrees. Wittingly or willfully to ignore or
to allow students’ ascription of others’ work to themselves is to condone
dishonesty, to deny the purpose of formal education, and to fail the public trust.
One of the primary objectives of higher education is to advance humanity by increasing and
refining knowledge. Such an objective is therefore threatened by students who commit
plagiarism, in which the evidence of the student’s knowledge is not genuine. Given the gravity of
the offense, students suspected or accused of disregarding, concealing, aiding, or committing
plagiarism must be assured of thorough, impartial and conclusive investigation of any such
accusation. Likewise, students guilty of such an offense must be liable for an appropriate
penalty, even severance from the University and in some cases revocation of an advanced
degree, should the demonstrated plagiarism clearly call into question a student’s academic ethics,
competence or accomplishments.
THE ACADEMIC DISHONESTY POLICY OF THE SCHOOL OF COMMUNICATION
In any case in which an instructor identifies evidence for charging a student with violation of
academic conduct standards or plagiarism, the presumption will be with that instructor’s
determination. The instructor(s) will confer with the School of Communication Director to
confirm the evidence. Once confirmed, the student will be informed and presented with the
evidence. Some conditions and terms below clarify the School policy and procedure.
Proper source attribution: Proper attribution occurs by specifying the source of content or ideas.
This is done by (a) providing quotation marks around text, when directly quoted, and (b) clearly
designating the source of the text or information relied upon in an assignment.
Intellectual contents: Intellectual contents include all forms of ‘text’ produced by another person
or persons. It includes: writings, course syllabi, course lectures and recordings of lectures, visual
information such as models, videos, lyrics, software, etc.
Secondary citations: Secondary citation is not strictly a form of plagiarism, but in blatant forms, it
can present similar ethical challenges. A secondary citation is citing source A, which in turn cites
source B, but it is source B’s ideas or content that provide the basis for the claims the student
intends to make in the assignment. For example, assume that there is an article by Jones (2006) in
the student’s hands, in which there is a discussion or quotation of an article by Smith (1998).
Assume further that what Smith seems to be saying is very important to the student’s analysis. In
such a situation, the student should always try to locate the original Smith source. In general, if an
idea is important enough to discuss in an assignment, it is important enough to locate and cite the
original source for that idea. There are several reasons for these policies: (a) Authors sometimes
commit citation errors, which might be replicated without knowing it; (b) Authors sometimes make
interpretation errors, which might be ignorantly reinforced (c) Therefore, reliability of scholarly
COMM 103 syllabus
©2012 SDSU School of Communication This syllabus cannot be copied or altered without the expressed written consent of the instructor.
COMM 103, Spring 2016, Syllabus, 7
activity is made more difficult to assure and enforce; (d) By relying on only a few sources of
review, the learning process is short-circuited, and the student’s own research competencies are
diminished, which are integral to any liberal education; (e) By masking the actual sources of ideas,
readers must second guess which sources come from which citations, making the readers’ own
research more difficult; (f) By masking the origin of the information, the actual source of ideas is
misrepresented. Some suggestions that assist with this principle:
 When the ideas Jones discusses are clearly attributed to, or unique to, Smith, then find the
Smith source and citation.
 When the ideas Jones is discussing are historically associated more with Smith than with
Jones, then find the Smith source and citation.
 In contrast, Jones is sometimes merely using Smith to back up what Jones is saying and
believes, and is independently qualified to claim, whether or not Smith would have also
said it; in such a case, citing Jones is sufficient.
 Never simply copy a series of citations at the end of a statement by Jones, and reproduce
the reference list without actually going to look up what those references report—the only
guarantee that claims are valid is for a student to read the original sources of those claims.
Self-plagiarism: Students often practice some form of ‘double-dipping,’ in which they write on a
given topic across more than one course assignment. In general, there is nothing wrong with
double-dipping topics or sources, but there is a problem with double-dipping exact and redundant
text. It is common for scholars to write on the same topic across many publication outlets; this is
part of developing expertise and the reputation of being a scholar on a topic. Scholars, however,
are not permitted to repeat exact text across papers or publications except when noted and
attributed, as this wastes precious intellectual space with repetition and does a disservice to the
particular source of original presentation by ‘diluting’ the value of the original presentation. Any
time that a writer simply ‘cuts-and-pastes’ exact text from former papers into a new paper without
proper attribution, it is a form of self-plagiarism. Consequently, a given paper should never be
turned in to multiple classes. Entire paragraphs, or even sentences, should not be repeated wordfor-word across course assignments. Each new writing assignment is precisely that, a new writing
assignment, requiring new composition on the student’s part.
Specific exemplary infractions and consequences:
 Course failure: Reproducing a whole paper, paragraph, or large portions of unattributed
materials without proper attribution, whether represented by: (a) multiple sentences,
images, or portions of images; or (b) by percentage of assignment length, will result in
assignment of an “F” in the course in which the infraction occurred, and a report to the
Center for Student Rights and Responsibilities (CSRR2).
 Assignment failure: Reproducing a sentence or sentence fragment with no quotation
marks, but with source citation, or subsets of visual images without source attribution, will
minimally result in an “F” on the assignment, and may result in greater penalty, including a
report to the CSRR, depending factors noted below.
 Exacerbating conditions--Amount: Evidence of infraction, even if fragmentary, is
increased with a greater: (a) number of infractions; (b) distribution of infractions across an
assignment; or (c) proportion of the assignment consisting of infractions.
 Exacerbating conditions--Intent: Evidence of foreknowledge and intent to deceive
magnifies the seriousness of the offense and the grounds for official response. Plagiarism,
whether ‘by accident’ or ‘by ignorance,’ still qualifies as plagiarism—it is all students’
responsibility to make sure their assignments are not committing the offense.
COMM 103 syllabus
©2012 SDSU School of Communication This syllabus cannot be copied or altered without the expressed written consent of the instructor.
COMM 103, Spring 2016, Syllabus, 8

Exceptions: Any exceptions to these policies will be considered on a case-by-case basis,
and only under exceptional circumstances.
Turnitin.com: All outlines and written assignments will be uploaded to Turnitin.com via your
Small Section BlackBoard site. Faculty may use additional methods to detect plagiarism.
HOW DO YOU HANDLE CHEATING? I HAVE HEARD STORIES ABOUT SEVERAL
STUDENTS GETTING Fs, ACADEMIC PROBATION, AND EXPULSION FROM
CHEATING ON AN EXAM. IS THAT TRUE?
Yes, it is true. In the past, we have caught many students cheating. Trust me, we have ways of
finding out. If you cheat on an exam, you will likely be caught and punished to the full extent of
the course, department, and university policies contained in this document.
I provide study guides for each chapter of the textbook, as well as sample exam questions from
past exams on the study guides and via clicker questions. I do not, and never have, given out old
exams to students from which they can study. So, if a friend tells you or gives you what he or
she says is an old exam copy, it was obtained illegally and constitutes academic dishonesty for
anyone in possession of it. If you forward it and all accompanying information to me
immediately, you will not be punished. If you do not, you may receive not only an F in the class,
but your name will be reported to the Center for Student Rights and Responsibilities, where you
will face academic probation, expulsion, and/or other sanctions.
Ultimately, you are responsible for both your exam copy (they are numbered and turned in at the
end of the exam) and your PARScore sheet. If, for any reason at all, your instructor does not
receive both of these at the end of the exam period (you forgot to turn it in, you gave it to a
classmate to turn in, etc.) you will receive a zero for the exam and may possibly be
recommended to Center for Student Rights & Responsibilities for additional action.
HOW WILL I BE GRADED ON ASSIGNMENTS?
You will better understand your grades on speeches and outlines if you remember that a “B” is
not average; average performance on class assignments is rewarded with a “C.” In other words, a
“C” means that you have simply met the minimum requirements for a particular assignment.
The grade descriptions COMM 103 Small Section Instructors abide by are as follows:
A = Outstanding achievement. This grade signifies outstanding work that demonstrates an in-depth
understanding of skills and material that far surpasses the minimum expectations of a student in the class.
Specifically, an “A” speech is one that satisfies all the requirements of a “B” speech and:
 Constitutes a genuine contribution to the knowledge and thinking of the audience.
 Is delivered in a fluent, polished manner that strengthens the impact of the speaker’s message.
 Illustrates a mastery of organization, language choice, nonverbal displays, and visual aid use.
B = Praiseworthy performance. This grade signifies work in which the student has demonstrated an
understanding of skills and material that exceeds the minimum requirements. Specifically, a “B” speech is
one that satisfies the requirements of a “C” presentation and:
 Supports main points with more than the minimum amount of evidence required and is accurate,
relevant to the topic, and sufficient to aid in the audience’s understanding of that topic.
 Is delivered in a way that does not distract attention from the speaker’s message.
 Illustrates proficiency in organization, language choice, nonverbal displays, and visual aid use.
COMM 103 syllabus
©2012 SDSU School of Communication This syllabus cannot be copied or altered without the expressed written consent of the instructor.
COMM 103, Spring 2016, Syllabus, 9
C = Satisfactory performance. This grade signifies work in which the student has met the minimum
requirements and expectations. Specifically, a “C” presentation:
 Conforms to the type of speech assigned, fulfills all requirements of the speech (e.g., visual aids) and
is ready for presentation on the assigned date.
 Includes a clear thesis and an identifiable introduction, body, and conclusion where appropriate.
 Illustrates a basic understanding of organization, language choice, nonverbal displays, and visual aid
use (where appropriate).
 Contains disfluencies, verbal stumbles, and other verbal and nonverbal characteristics that may be
distracting to an audience.
D = Minimally passing. This grade signifies work in which the student does not meet the minimum
expectations for a given assignment.
F = Failing. This grade signifies work in which little or no effort seems to have been expended by the
student.
RETURNING EXAMS AND OTHER ASSIGNMENTS
Please note that exams in this class will not be returned. However, you are welcome to make an
appointment to see and review your exam with your Small Section Instructor. All exams, and
other papers, not picked up by the student will be destroyed at the end of the following semester.
WHAT’S THE GRADING SCALE FOR THIS CLASS?
This course uses a total point grading system, in which your final letter grade is based on your
total points earned in the class over the course of the semester. The grading scale for this class is
as follows:
1000- 930
929-900
899-870
869-830
829-800
799-770
=
=
=
=
=
=
A
AB+
B
BC+
769-730
729-700
699-670
669-630
629-600
599-000
=
=
=
=
=
=
C
CD+
D
DF
DO YOU CURVE GRADES OR BUMP UP TO THE NEXT GRADE?
Final grades are just that: final! Please do not ask your instructor to “bump” you up, regardless of
how close you are to the next grades. Grades are not curved for any assignments. You may look
at your final grade and see that you’re 1% away from the next highest grade. In this grading
scale, however, 1% equals 10 points, which could be the entire value of one quiz or activity. So,
you will not get bumped up even if you’re 1% or 2% away from the next highest grade.
DO YOU OFFER EXTRA CREDIT?
Students may obtain extra credit from participation in departmental research if research
opportunities are made available. Extra credit cannot be guaranteed as it is dependent on the
NEED of research participants in departmental research. If extra credit opportunities are made
available, students can receive 2 points for each half-hour/half credit of research participation
(maximum 14 points). You will be sent an email the 1st month of class with login instructions
and a website. If you do not receive this email by March, please ask your Small Section
Instructor.
COMM 103 syllabus
©2012 SDSU School of Communication This syllabus cannot be copied or altered without the expressed written consent of the instructor.
HOW MANY POINTS IS EACH ASSIGNMENT WORTH?
Assignment
Individual and Partner Presentations
Speech of Introduction
Informative Speech—(Partner Presentation on
an Intercultural topic)
Persuasive Speech
Special Occasion Speech
Written Assignments
Speech of Introduction Outline
Informative Speech Outline— (Partner)
Persuasive Speech Outline
Participation
Large Lecture Participation (“clicker” points)
Small Section Participation (see below)
In-Class Activities
Online LearnSmart (through McGraw-Hill
Connect)
 Study Modules for each chapter
IMPACCT Assessment Completion
Exams and Quizzes
Online Quizzes (through McGraw-Hill
Connect)
Exam #1 (50 multiple choice questions x 2
points each)
Exam #2 (50 multiple choice questions x 2
points each)
Total Points
Point Values
300 points (30% of grade)
50 points
100 points (40 partner points, 60
individual points)
100 points
50 points
150 points (15% of grade)
50 points
50 points
50 points
300 points (30% of grade)
100 points
 you can miss up to three
lectures and still get the full
points (the rest are not extra
credit)
200 points total—See
breakdown below
100 points total
 10 activities x 10 points
70 points total
 14 chapters x 5 pts each
30 points total
 10 points for peers; 10 points
Time # 1; 10 points Time # 2
250 points (25% of grade)
50 total points
 5 quizzes x 10 points
100 points
100 points
1,000 points
My Score
WHAT IS THE ATTENDANCE POLICY FOR THE LARGE LECTURE AND SMALL
SECTIONS?
Large Lectures
It is essential that you attend lecture and discussion sessions for this course every week. In Large
Lecture, you will learn about communication theory, communication contexts, and competent
communication in a variety of contexts. You will be asked to apply in your presentations certain
concepts addressed in the Large Lectures. Additionally, the exams will be primarily comprised
of Large Lecture material. Some of the topics covered in Large Lecture are not in the textbook
nor addressed in your Small Section, so you must attend Large Lecture to know the material. If
you do not attend Large Lecture, you will also miss participation points garnered through the use
of the clickers. NOTE: We will offer more than 100 possible points to ensure that students who
experience technical glitches with their clickers get ample opportunities to get the full
participation points.
Small Sections
Since you will be presenting your speeches in your Small Section, attendance is mandatory. In
Small Section meetings, you will receive important instructions about assignments and work
closely with your instructor and classmates to increase your communication skills. It is also
important to have an audience for classmates on speech dates. Attendance will be taken on all
speech days!!
Attendance on your speech day is mandatory!!!. Failure to attend a scheduled speech day on
which you are scheduled to present means you will receive a zero on that speech—absolutely no
make-ups are allowed unless you contact your instructor before the class and provide
documentation for an excused absence (this means a university activity, sports, or medical
paperwork). You must deliver all 4 speeches to pass this class.
Please arrive to class on time. If you are late, you may miss participation points. Absolutely no
make-ups of in-class activities are allowed.
IS LATE WORK ACCEPTED?
There are no make-ups for speeches or written work unless the student provides documented
proof of an emergency or illness, participation in a university-sponsored activity, or prior
understanding with the Small Section Instructor. A doctor’s note must include a phone number.
Don’t be surprised if your Small Section Instructor calls this number to verify your absence.
Speeches
Failure to give your presentation on the day assigned to you without proper documentation, a
university-sanctioned absence, or prior understanding with the Small Section Instructor will
result in a zero on the assignment. Trading speech days with a classmate requires Small Section
Instructor approval in advance. If you are given a postponement and your speech has not been
made-up after two (2) weeks, you may receive a zero on that assignment. If you do NOT deliver
all 4 speeches, you CANNOT pass the class. A requirement to pass this class is to present all 4
speeches in class.
Written Work
It is your responsibility to complete and submit all written work, typed and according to
assignment guidelines at the beginning of the specified class period. Written work not turned in
on the day it is due will result in a zero on the assignment unless you have proper documentation,
a university-sanctioned absence, or prior understanding with the Small Section Instructor. If you
are given a postponement and your written work has not been made-up after two (2) weeks, you
may receive a zero on that assignment. You will also be required to submit outlines to
turnitin.com, and it is your responsibility to complete that process in a timely manner.
IMPORTANT QUESTIONS:
MY PARENTS WANT TO BUY MY PLANE TICKET TO GO HOME. CAN I TAKE
THE FINAL EXAM AHEAD OF TIME? CAN I MAKE-UP THE EXAM I AM GOING
TO MISS?
As per university policy, the final exam must be administered on the official final exam date.
This date is determined by the university and based on the “Group Final Schedule”; see the daily
schedule below or the online SDSU final exam schedule for details. Make-up exams are
permitted only for reasons recognized by the university, such as participation in a universitysponsored activity, a documented illness, or serious emergency. Previously purchased airline
tickets or family vacations/gatherings do NOT meet these standards. You may NEVER take the
exam early, but we may allow you to make up the exam after the scheduled exam date/time.
HOW WILL I KNOW HOW I AM DOING IN CLASS? CAN I PERIODICALLY
CHECK MY GRADE?
All assignment scores will be posted on your Small Section BlackBoard site. You can keep track
of your Large Lecture participation on my Large Lecture BlackBoard site. You will also receive
your graded assignments handed back to you in a timely manner. However, it is your
responsibility to keep track of grades and to be sure that your scores have been posted correctly.
Students should retain all graded assignments until the final, official course grade has been
posted. If you have questions or concerns about your grading, feel free to contact your Small
Section Instructor during office hours.
WHAT IS THIS CLICKER FOR? DO I NEED IT? HOW WILL WE BE USING IT IN
CLASS?
We are using i>clicker 2 for in-class participation in the Large Lectures. My hope is that this will
help you: a) study for the exams; b) understand the material better; and c) feel more engaged
with class. You must register your i>clicker remote by using the BlackBoard link in my Large
Lecture BlackBoard site. Be sure to see a success message. Do not register it with i>clicker.
If you forget to bring your clicker to Large Lecture, you will not receive any points.
See http:// http://clicker.sdsu.edu/studentFAQ.html for instructions on getting started. Additional
instructions will be posted on BlackBoard.
I am a class which uses clickers. What should I do?
1. Buy a clicker in the bookstore. A clicker should show up on the class materials list if an
instructor requires you to use a clicker.
2. You can buy a used i>clicker online rather cheap if you are so inclined.
3. Go to your Large Lecture BlackBoard site, click on “Tools”, then click on the link that
says “i>clicker student registration”.
4. Follow the appropriate set of directions below to register your clicker.
5. Be sure that you see a success message. Continue to register your clicker again and again
until you see a success message.
6. NOTE: Batteries are supposed to last at least a year but do make sure to change them
when the battery meter indicates that they are low.
How do I award clicker points?
You receive clicker points for answering all the questions asked in a Large Lecture. You do not
have to get the question correct; you just have to participate. The total points for i>clicker
participation are 100 points. Every student receives 3 free absences; 3 times you can miss Large
Lecture/forget your clicker and still earn full clicker points. Please also remember:
1. If you forget your clicker, you will not receive any points.
2. If your clicker batteries run out, you will not receive any points (you can always see
your battery level in your clicker window).
3. If your clicker breaks, you must purchase a new one and re-register your clicker
before you receive points (if there’s a technical difficulty, please see me—we don’t
want to penalize you for a technical glitch that is not your fault).
4. If you buy a new clicker, do NOT remove the old clicker from BB when you reregister your new clicker. You can have two clickers registered to you. Talk with
me first!
Students with Disabilities
If you are a student with a disability and believe you will need accommodations for this class, it
is your responsibility to contact Student Disability Services at (619) 594-6473. To avoid any
delay in the receipt of your accommodations, you should contact Student Disability Services as
soon as possible. Please note that accommodations are not retroactive, and that accommodations
based upon disability cannot be provided until you have presented your instructor with an
accommodation letter from Student Disability Services. Your cooperation is appreciated.
COMM 103 Spring 2016 Schedule!
This schedule and the assignments may be adjusted as the progress of the large lecture and small sections dictate. The dates and activities in
the small sections may vary depending on the instructor and the progress of the class.
Week
Chapter
Monday Small Section Meeting
1 (1/18-1/22)
Textbook
Introduction
NO CLASS: MLK, JR.
HOLIDAY!!
Wednesday Small Section
Meeting
Introductions to class and each
other: Icebreakers
LO1 = Articulate important
assignments, policies, and due dates
for the class
LO2 = Begin speaking in front of
classmates
2 (1/25-1/29)
12
Introduce Speech of Introduction
Preparation for Speech of
Introduction Outline
Large Lecture Topic
Quizzes & Exams
Introduction to Large Lecture:
Overview of C 103
LO1 = Define mindful engagement
LO2 = Define sustainability &
health
LO3 = Articulate role of
mindfulness and sustainability in
communication
Organizing a Speech
Outlining
Activity # 1
3 (2/1-2/5)
2/2 Last Day to
Add/Drop Classes
13
LO1 = Articulate goals of Speech of
Introduction
LO1 = Identify main components of
a formal outline
LO2 = Distinguish formal outline
from speaking notes
Preparation for Speech of
Introduction Outline
Speech of Introduction Outlines
Due
Activity # 2
Activity # 3
LO1 = Identify ways to manage
stage fright
LO2 = Demonstrate effective visual
and vocal delivery skills
LO1 = Identify ways to manage
stage fright
LO2 = Demonstrate effective visual
and vocal delivery skills
LO1 = Identify components of
effective thesis statements
LO2= Demonstrate proper format of
introduction, body, and conclusion
LO3 = Demonstrate organization
and outlining skills
Presenting a Speech Confidently
LO1 = Identify ways to manage
stage fright
LO2 = Demonstrate effective visual
and vocal delivery skills
LO3 = Display creative presentation
aids
IMPACCT Time 1 Survey
completed and Peer E-mails sent
by Wednesday, 2/3, 10pm
DO NOT MAKE TRAVEL PLANS (or let others make travel plans for you) DURING FINALS WEEK.
COMM 103 Spring 2016 Schedule!
This schedule and the assignments may be adjusted as the progress of the large lecture and small sections dictate. The dates and activities in
the small sections may vary depending on the instructor and the progress of the class.
Week
Chapter
Monday Small Section Meeting
4 (2/8-2/12)
1
Speech of Introduction
Wednesday Small Section
Meeting
Speech of Introduction
LO1= Demonstrate effective public
speaking skills
LO1= Demonstrate effective public
speaking skills
Deadline for registering clickers
to still earn the maximum points
Deadline for registering for
McGraw-Hill Connect to earn the
maximum points
Introduce Informative Speech
Preparation for Informative Speech
Outline
Activity # 4
5 (2/15-2/19)
11
Topic brainstorming
LO1 = explain effective informative
speaking skills
LO2 = Identify types of support
LO3 = Identify cultural awareness
Assign Partners for Info Speech
6 (2/22-2/26)
14
APA citation style
LO1 = explain effective informative
speaking skills
LO2 = Identify types of support
LO3 = Identify cultural awareness
Preparation for Informative Speech
Outline
Activity # 5
LO1 = Identify necessary elements
of APA style
LO2 = Demonstrate APA citation
style
LO3 = Define plagiarism &
consequences of it
LO1 = Identify ways to manage
stage fright
LO2 = Demonstrate effective visual
and vocal delivery skills
Large Lecture Topic
Quizzes & Exams
Presenting a Speech Confidently
Introduction to Communication
LO1 = Identify needs
communication satisfies
LO2 = Identify characteristics of
communication
LO3 = Distinguish models of
communication
LO4 = Detect myths of
communication
LO5 = Define Communication
Quiz #1 online on Chaps. 12, 13
due on Friday 2/12 by 7pm
Choosing & Researching a Topic
LO1 = Identify components of
audience analysis
LO2 = Identify ways audience
influences topic selection
LO3 = Explain the 5 goals of public
speaking
LO4 = Identify and narrow
appropriate topics
Informative Speaking
LO1 = Identify types of informative
speaking
LO2 = Identify ways to garner
audience attention
LO3 = Identify ways to relate to
your audience
Quiz #2 online on Chap. 11 due on
Friday 2/26 by 7 pm
DO NOT MAKE TRAVEL PLANS (or let others make travel plans for you) DURING FINALS WEEK.
COMM 103 Spring 2016 Schedule!
This schedule and the assignments may be adjusted as the progress of the large lecture and small sections dictate. The dates and activities in
the small sections may vary depending on the instructor and the progress of the class.
Week
Chapter
Monday Small Section Meeting
7 (2/29-3/4)
2
Informative Speech Outlines Due
Activity # 6
8 (3/7-3/11)
4
LO1 = Identify ways to manage
stage fright
LO2 = Demonstrate effective visual
and vocal delivery skills
Informative Speeches
LO1= Demonstrate effective
informative speaking skills
9 (3/14-3/18)
5
Introduce Persuasive Speech
Wednesday Small Section
Meeting
Informative Speeches
LO1= Demonstrate effective
informative speaking skills
Informative Speeches
LO1= Demonstrate effective
informative speaking skills
Preparation for Persuasive Speech
Outline
Activity # 7
LO1 = Demonstrate persuasive
speaking skills
LO2 Identify important components
of persuasion
LO3 = Brainstorm topics
LO1 = Demonstrate persuasive
outlining skills
LO2= Identify components to Stock
Issues format
Large Lecture Topic
Quizzes & Exams
Communication and Culture
LO1 = Distinguish characteristics of
cultures and co-cultures
LO2 = Identify ways culture affects
Communication
LO3 = Demonstrate Cultural
Awareness
How We Use Language
LO1 = Identify the components of
language
LO2 = Distinguish cultural and
persuasive contexts of language
LO3 = Identify effective uses of
language
Quiz #3 online on Chaps. 14, 2 due
on Friday 3/11 by 7pm
Communicating Nonverbally
LO1 = Define Nonverbal
Communication
LO2 = Identify 10 Channels of
Nonverbal Communication
LO 3 = Distinguish cultural and sex
differences in nonverbal
Exam # 1:
Friday, 3/18, 3:00pm, Room TBA
Chapters 1, 2, 4, 11, 12, 13, 14.
McGraw-Hill Connect
LearnSmart Chapters due by
Friday 3/18, 3:00 pm
DO NOT MAKE TRAVEL PLANS (or let others make travel plans for you) DURING FINALS WEEK.
COMM 103 Spring 2016 Schedule!
This schedule and the assignments may be adjusted as the progress of the large lecture and small sections dictate. The dates and activities in
the small sections may vary depending on the instructor and the progress of the class.
Week
Chapter
Monday Small Section Meeting
10 (3/21-3/25)
15
Preparation for Persuasive Speech
Outline
Activity # 8
11 (3/28-4/1)
12 (4/4-4/8)
6
Wednesday Small Section
Meeting
Preparation for Persuasive Speech
LO1 = Demonstrate persuasive
speaking skills
LO1 = Demonstrate persuasive
outlining skills
LO2= Identify components to Stock
Issues format
SPRING BREAK
SPRING BREAK!!
NO CLASSES!!
NO CLASSES!!
Persuasive Speech Outlines Due
Activity # 9
Persuasive Speech
LO1= Demonstrate effective
persuasive speaking skills
LO1 = Identify ways to manage
stage fright
LO2 = Demonstrate effective visual
and vocal delivery skills
13 (4/11-4/15)
17
(Appendix on
Media Literacy)
Persuasive Speech
Persuasive Speech
LO1= Demonstrate effective
persuasive speaking skills
LO1= Demonstrate effective
persuasive speaking skills
Large Lecture Topic
Quizzes & Exams
Persuasive Speaking:
LO1 = Define persuasive speaking
LO2 = Distinguish types of
rhetorical proofs
LO 3 = Identify Stock Issues Format
Listening Effectively
LO1 = Identify the components &
stages of listening
LO2 = Identify the types & barriers
of listening
Media Literacy
LO1 = Identify components of
Selective Exposure, Uses and
Gratifications, Cultivation, and
Agenda Setting Theories
Quiz #4 online on Chap. 15 due on
Friday 4/15 by 7pm
DO NOT MAKE TRAVEL PLANS (or let others make travel plans for you) DURING FINALS WEEK.
COMM 103 Spring 2016 Schedule!
This schedule and the assignments may be adjusted as the progress of the large lecture and small sections dictate. The dates and activities in
the small sections may vary depending on the instructor and the progress of the class.
Week
Chapter
Monday Small Section Meeting
Wednesday Small Section Meeting
14 (4/18-4/22)
7
Persuasive Speech
Persuasive Speech
LO1= Demonstrate effective
persuasive speaking skills
LO1= Demonstrate effective
persuasive speaking skills
15 (4/25-4/29)
8
Introduce & Prepare for Special
Occasion Speech
Activity # 10
LO1 = Demonstrate knowledge
of course concepts and theories
LO2 = Demonstrate effective
vocal and visual delivery
elements
16 (5/2-5/6)
3
Special Occasion Speech
LO1 = Demonstrate knowledge
of course concepts and theories
LO2 = Articulate image
management theory
LO3 = Demonstrate effective
vocal and visual delivery
IMPACCT Time 2 Survey due
by Monday, 5/2, 10pm
Large Lecture Topic
Quizzes & Exams
Communicating in Social and
Personal Relationships
LO1 = Identify theories of forming
and maintaining relationships
LO2 = Identify components of selfdisclosure
LO3 = Identify characteristics of
friendships & work relationships
Quiz #5 online on Chap. 17 due
on Friday 4/22 by 7pm
Communication in Intimate
Special Occasion Speech
Relationships
LO1 = Demonstrate knowledge
LO1 = Distinguish dialectical
of course concepts and theories
tensions and how to manage them
LO2 = Articulate image management LO2 = Identify Knapp’s stages of
theory
relationships
LO3 = Demonstrate effective
LO3 = Identify characteristics of
vocal and visual delivery
family communication
T.B.A.
Perceiving the Self and Others
Exam #2:
Saturday, 5/7, 3:30pm, Rooms TBA
Chapters 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 15 & 17
(Media Literacy)
McGraw-Hill Connect
LearnSmart due by Saturday 5/7,
3:30 pm
DO NOT MAKE TRAVEL PLANS (or let others make travel plans for you) DURING FINALS WEEK.