SPH-107 - Fundamentals of Public Speaking Instructor: Mrs. M. Jones
3 semester credit hours Office: BDH 105
mjones6@jeffstateonline.com Office Hours: See postings
Phone: 205-856-6044

Course Description:
This course explores principles of audience and environment analysis as well as the actual planning,
rehearsing, and presenting of formal speeches to specific audiences. Historical foundations,
communication theories, and student performances are emphasized.

General Course Competencies:
A. The student will understand the basic organization of a speech.
B. The student will demonstrate improved physical delivery skills.
C. The student will analyze audiences and situations and adapt to each.
D. The student will distinguish rhetorical devices and skills.
E. The student will understand the speech communication process.
F. The student will utilize research skills in preparation of of speech assignments.

Course Objectives States in Performance Terms:
During the course, the student will do the following under the guidance of the instructor:
A. Demonstrate understanding of the basic organization of a speech
1. construct speech outlines for each prepared speech
2. exhibit knowledge of various patterns of organization for the body of a speech in classroom exercises
3. demonstrate knowledge of patterns of organization appropriate for informative speeches
4. demonstrate knowledge of patterns of organization appropriate for persuasive speeches
5. demonstrate knowledge of various types of ceremonial/special occasion speeches
6. use the parts of a speech and the purpose of each correctly in classroom speeches
B. Demonstrate improved delivery skills
1. utilize appropriate eye contact in speeches
2. demonstrate articulation and pronunciation skills
3. deliver speeches with clear and understandable language
4. become familiar with guidelines for using the four methods of delivery
5. utilize extemporaneous delivery for prepared speeches
6. demonstrate effective nonverbal communication skills
C. Analyze audiences and situations and adapt to each
1. demonstrate knowledge of the differences among partisan, neutral, and hostile audiences
2. adapt to listener feedback during presentations
3. exhibit listening skills during classroom speeches
4. be able to determine appropriate language for different audiences
5. demonstrate ethical behavior in classroom speeches
D. Distinguish rhetorical devices and skills
1. exhibit knowledge of attention devices in speeches and exercises
2. exhibit knowledge of propaganda devices in speeches and exercises
3. utilize the various types of evidence in speeches
4. exhibit use of emotional appeals in speeches
5. demonstrate the appropriate use of visual aids in speeches
6. become familiar with the uses and effects of language
7. exhibit knowledge of inductive and deductive reasoning
8. avoid reasoning fallacies in speeches
E. Understand the speech communication process
1. understand the relationship of the speaker, the audience, and the speech (message)
2. understand various aspects of credibility
3. conform to assigned speaking time limits
4. understand conventions of effective informative speaking
5. understand conventions of effective persuasive speaking
F. Utilize research skills in preparation of speech assignments
1. determine credibility of sources
2. construct questionnaires and/or conduct interviews
3. demonstrate knowledge of using various means of evidence/support
4. utilize the various Internet and online databases for evidence/support for presentations
5. conduct library research
6. avoid plagiarism, documenting all sources appropriately
7. utilize proper oral citation during presentations
G. Demonstrate knowledge of the history and tradition of rhetoric
1. demonstrate understanding of Aristotle's rhetorical appeals of ethos, pathos, and logos
2. complete critical analyses of famous speeches such as JFK's Inaugural Address, MLK's "I Have a
Dream," and others

Plagiarism:
The minimum penalty for a plagiarized speech/outline or exam will be a zero for that assignment.
Refer to the College Catalog and Student Handbook for a list of violations to the Academic Honesty
Code and additional penalties which may be imposed.

Textbook:
Confident Public Speaking, 2nd edition, by Deanna D. Sellnow

Statement on Discrimination / Harassment:
The College and the Alabama State Board of education are committed to providing both employment
and educational environments free of harassment or discrimination related to an individual's race,
color, gender, religion, national origin, age or disability. Such harassment is a violation of State Board
of Education policy. Any practice or behavior that constitutes harassment or discrimination will not be tolerated.

Americans with Disabilities:
The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 state that
qualified students with disabilities who meet the essential function and academic requirements are
entitled to reasonable accommodations. It is the student's responsibility to provide appropriate
disability documentation to the college.

Attendance:
Students are expected to attend all classes for which they register. Students who miss more than eight
unexcused days of class, will fail the semester; due to the amount of work covered during their
absence. Students who are unable to attend classes regularly, regardless of the reason or
circumstances, should withdraw from class before poor attendance interferes with the student's ability
to achieve objectives required in the course. The instructor is not responsible for providing missed
lecture notes for those missing classes or tardy for class.

Withdrawal:
Withdrawal from any class can affect eligibility for federal financial aid. Check with the appropriate office for more information.

Make up assignments:
I make no arrangements outside of the allotted class period, for make up assignments. If you have
missed a day and you have a verifiable doctor's excuse or college excuse, you will be allowed to take
advantage of an assigned make up day, which will be determined based on the pace of the class.
Assessment:
Individual Worksheets 100 points
Group Worksheets 100 points
Speech (Personal Significance) 100 points
Speech (Ceremonial Manuscript) 100 points
Speech (Impromptu) 100 points
Speech (Informative Demonstration) 100 points
Speech (Informative Explanation or Description) 100 points
Speech (Persuasive Actuation or Dispositional) 100 points
Final Exam 200 points
TOTAL 1000 points