COMM 121 - Public Speaking

Instruction and experience in preparation and delivery of speeches within a public setting. This course has an emphasis on research, preparation, delivery, and evaluation methods of informative, persuasive, demonstration, and special occasion speeches. Assessment Level(s): ENGL 101 /ENGL 101A , READ 120 . Three hours each week. Formerly SP 111.

3 semester hours

Course Outcomes:
Upon course completion, a student will be able to:

Evaluate the role of free speech in a democratic society by analyzing the message and delivery style of public speakers.
Identify and apply active and critical listening skills as both a speaker and an audience member.
Differentiate between and deliver effective informative, persuasive and special occasion presentations.
Locate, incorporate and document key reference materials and modern information resources when writing and delivering speeches.
Identify a variety of audience types and describe methods to adapt presentations to various types.
Identify and use appropriate presentation technologies and software, modern visual aids and graphical information in presentations.
Present the major speeches in an extemporaneous* mode, with little or no signs of performance anxiety. *Extemporaneous is defined as speaking conversationally, making eye contact and using notes; reading from a manuscript or memorizing is not included in the definition.
Construct and analyze persuasive messages using logic, reasoning, and supported conclusions.
Adapt to listener feedback during and when revising speeches.

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