Course Expectations
Power of Public Speaking
Trimester 1
2015-2016
Conor Meehan
meehanc@northandoverpublicschools.com
Extension 50125
@mrmeehanNA
Course Overview
Whether it is idle small talk, a formal address or a raging debate, verbal
communication is essential to the world around us. This class will examine the
ways we communicate. During the early part of the course, students will study
public speaking and be required to write and deliver different types of speeches –
informative, evocative, and persuasive as a few examples. The second part of the
course will focus on debate strategies, and students will work on developing
arguments while “on their feet.” In addition to debating, writing, and delivering
speeches, students will leave this class feeling more comfortable and confident with
public forms of expression. There will also be a focus on research skills.
Textbooks
There will be no specific textbook for this class. Directions on different types of
speeches will be presented in class. Students will need to use a variety of sources
for doing research.
Student Materials
All students should come prepared to work in class. This means students should
bring a pen or pencil, notebook, and any reading materials needed.
Students should have a binder or folder dedicated to class. Students will receive a
lot of material to hold onto. Students should find an organization system that works
for them. There will be random checks, which will count as a quiz grade, to ensure
that students are keeping all materials and notes. There will be a good amount of
note taking so students must have a notebook dedicated to this class.
Grading Policy
The following scale will determine student grades. Please note that this is tentative
and subject to change, and students will be notified of any changes. Always
remember that participation/behavior is factored into the grade.
Major Speeches (4): 100 points
Debates (2): 100 points
Minor assignments: 10-50 points
Homework Policy
There may not be nightly homework assigned for this class. Students will, however,
always have a project that they will be working towards. So even if there is not
something due the next day, students are expected to be doing work towards these
projects.
Attendance/Make-up Policies
Your attendance is expected everyday. If absent, it is your responsibility to retrieve
and make up missed assignments and notes. Any assignments due the day you are
out are expected when you return. Any quizzes or tests you miss should be made up
when you return. Please refer to the student handbook for the school’s policy on
absences, credit reduction and makeup privileges.
Extra Help
I am always available for extra help by appointment. I am in every morning for
extra help, so feel free to stop in. Please see me to schedule a time after school for
extra help.
Class Behavior
My classroom has one golden rule:
If you disrupt my ability to teach or your classmates’ ability to learn then there is an
issue that needs to be addressed.
The first time you disrupt the class you will receive a verbal warning. The second
time, your name will be placed on the board and you will be asked to come see me
after school. Failure to do so will result in office detention.
Please respect the classroom. Do not write on the desks. Pick up trash. No food in
class.
Cell phones, I-pods, and hats will not be permitted during class. Please have them
silenced and in your bag for the duration of class.
Tardy Policy
Arriving to class later will not be tolerated. If arriving late, please sign in on the
tardy sheet, located on the back bulletin board.
Quizzes and Exams
There will not be formal quizzes and exams in this class. The major assessments
will be the four major speeches, and the three debates
Signature
I have read and understand the course expectations for public speaking.
Student Signature:
Parent Signature: