Description:

This is a beginners-level speech and debate course. Students will experience public speaking in a non-threatening and supportive environment. They will be introduced to different types of speeches and their purposes. Students will learn more about the communication process and begin to understand how we incorporate various nonverbal skills into our speeches. Students will also understand the steps of putting together a speech from start to performance. As well, they will practice some basic life-skills such as interviewing, reading to others, listening skills, and elevator-pitches. Class activities involve practicing diverse forms of communication – to inform, entertain and persuade. A portion of this class will also give the students an introduction to debate. Using the Lincoln-Douglas debate style, students will learn how to prepare and participate in a debate, as well as how to present an argument in a respectful and thoughtful manner. My goal for this course is to provide an environment that is content-rich, encouraging, and fun!