OP100 provides an introduction to the basic concepts, theories and principles of oral communication. You will explore the discovery and arrangement of ideas, discursive modes and styles, audience analysis, the use of evidence and reasoning to support claims, and consider some ethics of communication. You will develop new critical thinking skills and enhance your ability to listen skillfully to public discourse. The course fulfills the General Education Oral Communication Requirement of the college.
The course has a number of fundamental aims. It will help you hone your natural ability to present ideas, persuade people, argue points, and develop competence in oral communication through performance and critical analysis of your speaking skills in a variety of formats. To that end, you will gain competency in speaking to a group and learn to design and deliver persuasive arguments by communicating to your emotional, intellectual, and aesthetic potential.
[...] Materials: Required Text: Fundamentals of Speech Communication: Course Book, Version 1 and The Pocket Speech Guide When readings are assigned, I always expect you to have thoughtfully completed the text before coming to class. This means sorting out the main ideas, reflecting upon them, taking notes on the text, and being ready with questions and comments. WebCT Access All assignments and the syllabus are available on WebCT. You will automatically be allowed to access this course's WebCT page as a student enrolled in this class. [...]
[...] Cell Phone Policy: This being a Speech Class, the use of cell phones, pagers, and other electronic communication devices is not permitted in the classroom. Fellow classmates, delivering speeches are easily distracted by any noise that is audible. Under limited special circumstances, such as family emergencies, special arrangements may be made with me to allow incoming calls using the silent mode. In these circumstances, cell phone owners should sit near an exit in order to take the call outside the classroom without disruption. [...]
[...] You are expected to attend a speech outside of class and write a short page) analysis of the speech. It should be written about a formal occasion: a professor presenting his or her research for a lecture series, a visiting lecturer, a presidential candidate's address, or some other “official” speech. It may not be a typical lecture given in one of your other classes or a book reading by an author promoting his/her book. You may choose an occasion outside of Emerson College; however, you should note that critiques must be submitted within 72 hours of the event. [...]
[...] While most of you likely do so already, you should get in the habit of checking that account at least twice a day to keep abreast of things before class meets, and after 6 pm everyday. If for some reason I cannot attend class (because of illness or emergency) and cannot find a sub I will contact you via email AT LEAST one hour before class. Deadlines: Due dates are clear for all assignments. Late assignments are unacceptable. This means that unless you have a documented excuse (Dr.'s note, hospital release forms etc ) you will not be allowed to make up any missed assignments. [...]
[...] Deal with a challenging topic Fulfill all major requirements of introductions and conclusions Demonstrate research by using more sources than the minimum required for the assignment and clearly identifying them in the speech Exhibit proficient use of connectives-transitions, internal previews, etc Create and sustain attention Be direct and effective in language and delivery. The speech should also: 1. Genuinely contribute to the knowledge and beliefs of the audience Demonstrate greater research Use vivid language, maintaining special interest Be delivered dynamically. [...]
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