INTRO TO SPEECH SYLLABUS
Spring Semester 2014
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Instructor- B. Blair
Room- 133
Phone- 815.844.6113
Email- blairb@pontiac.k12.il.us
This course is unlike any other English course you have ever experienced, and is
designed as a college prep course. Therefore, you will be expected to put forth a
maximum amount of effort. I realize that for many of you this is your final
semester of high school, and “Senioritis” may soon kick in – don’t let it.
During the semester, this course will cover public speaking etiquette, as well as the
proper way to draft and deliver an effective speech. Other topics discussed will
include intrapersonal and interpersonal communication and how to communicate
within those realms. Please keep in mind that other speeches besides those listed
will be assigned throughout the semester.
This is a participation-based class. In order to succeed in this course, you need to be
an active participant and learner. My job is to guide you towards understanding
and to assist you in building, improving and strengthening your skills in writing,
research, and speaking. My wish is for you to enjoy this class and the material that
we will work with. However, despite your enjoyment, the skills you will learn and
use in this class will benefit you in all of your courses. Be ready to work!
TEXT AND MATERIALS—to be brought daily
Speech textbook
3 ring binder (for this class only)
loose leaf paper
pencil
red/blue/black pens
highlighters
subject dividers
Netbook with charger
*On speech days – formal dress code (please see me if this is a concern)
COURSE SCHEDULE (subject to change)
Unit I: The Communication Process- Chapters 1&2
The focus will be on basic speaking technique and form.
Pet Peeve Speech— This speech will allow the students to practice speaking
skills and gain confidence in speaking in front of others.
Brown Bag Speech- Students will practice using props as cues when speaking
to an audience.
Unit II: Introduction to Public Speaking-Chapters 9-14
Students will learn how to organize speeches, create effective introductions and
conclusions, adapt language to the given audience, use appropriate nonverbal
communication, etc.
Informative Speech—Students will conduct research and present informative
speeches.
Demonstration Speech—Students will give speeches, demonstrating how to do
something.
Unit III: Persuasive Speaking-Chapter 15
Emphasis will be placed on faulty reasoning, refutation skills, the importance of
establishing ethos, and ways to increase your chances of success in persuading your
audience to your point of view.
Persuasive Speech—Students will conduct research and present a persuasive
speech.
Unit IV: Intrapersonal/Interpersonal Communication-Chapters 5&6
Focus on the Johari Window, Monroe’s Motivated Sequence, Maslow’s Hierarchy of
Needs, self-disclosure, and conflicts.
Coat of Arms—Students will present a speech that focuses on different
aspects of their personality.
Name Speech—Students will practice the self-disclosure method and how to
use personal anecdotes when speaking.
A= 100-92
B= 91-83
Grading Scale
C=82-74
D=73-65
F=64 or below