Speech and Debate
Course Syllabus and Grading Policies
Teacher Contact Information
Name: Margaret Brown
Extension (in school): 5256
Email: mbrown@bradfordareaschools.org
Web: http://www.teacherweb.com/pa/bradfordareahighschool/mrsbrown/Table1.stm
Prep (Best Conference Time): 7th Period
Preferred Method of Contact: email
Textbooks & Resources
Public Speaking Today (2nd Edition),
Web: http://www.americanrhetoric.com
Blackboard: http://www.blendedschools.net
Other Resources & Materials
Materials Required Daily for Class: Pencil, Binder
Computer Needs/Access: Blackboard, Teacherweb, Study Island, Internet
Websites: Listed on the Teacherweb page or embedded in lessons
Blackboard Access: Use BASD's Website for Link and Sign-in OR https://www.blendedschools.net
Supplemental Materials: Library Resources
Course Information
General Course Description: Students will learn about the fundamentals of human communication and public speaking. They will learn what makes an individual a better speaker and a better listener. As speakers, students will learn about, and use, tools that increase their effectiveness. As writers, students will build skills in preparing speeches. They will learn the proper use of different types of support materials, research methods /strategies, speech organization, and argumentation in public speaking. Finally, students will learn to prepare and deliver specific types of speeches. Students will complete lessons with attention to grammar, spelling, writing, and vocabulary. All students will work to improve vocabulary, fluency, and reading comprehension skills through the use of exercises, speeches, presentations, debates, and tests.
Topics to be Covered: Speech and Debate focuses on the elements of human communication, methods and tools for increasing effectiveness, speech preparation, speech delivery, types of speeches, and debate methods.
Course Objectives
Learning Goals: Students will learn the fundamentals of public speaking and debate. Through their readings and activities, students will increase their ability to speak effectively for a variety of purposes. Students will learn the art of persuasion and apply their knowledge in their own speeches, essays, and debates.
Knowledge / Skills Students will Gain: Listening, Speaking, Critical Reading, Writing Purpose, Argumentation, Rhetoric, Rhetorical Analysis, Research, and Delivery
Instructional Philosophy
Expectations for Student Performance: Participation is a must. Students need to bring materials to class, and not leave to go to lockers. All assignments must be completed on time. Missed work due to excused absence is to be made up within two days. Debates cannot be made up; extenuating circumstances such as school closure or hospitalization of student are the exception. Debate dates are planned with teams, so students must schedule accordingly.
Emphasis: Presentations, Assignments, Tests and Quizzes
Collaboration: Individual Work, Group Work
Course Policies
Attendance: This course is greatly dependent on participation. There is very little room for absence.
Late Assignments: 10 point deduction per day
Make-up work due to absence: Two days from the date of an excused absence. Five points per day will be deducted for assignments turned in later. Incompletes are assigned at the discretion of the teacher.
Homework: Unfinished class work, projects, reading, assigned tv shows, studying
Academic Dishonesty: Zero point value assignment
Tutoring and Other Academic Assistance
I am available by appointment during my prep period (7th), or after school.
Teaching and Learning Strategies
Format of Class: After an introduction to each unit, the teacher becomes a facilitator. Students work individually and collaboratively on assignments. Blackboard, other internet and media, and hands-on experience are all integral parts of the class experience.
Required Activities: Participation in class, completion of assignments and activities, use of computer and internet, video publication, presentation of speeches to the class and other audiences
Predominant Strategies Employed: Jigsaw, SQ3R, RAP, Q-STep, Outlining, KWL, Concept Mapping, Modified Cornell 2-Column Notes, Interactive Electronic Activities.
Course Outline Unit 1: Human Communication / Analysis/ Vocabulary / Confidence / Podcast
Unit 2: Voice/ Nonverbal Delivery /Language/ Audience & Situation Analysis/ Topic /Delivery /Evaluation/ Vocabulary
Unit 3: Support Materials / Research / Organization / Argumentation / Discussion Thread / Blog
Unit 4: Speeches: Inform / Persuade / Entertain / Specialized
Unit 5: Debate: Procedures and Principles
Grading Procedures / Assessment Plan
50% - Speeches & Debates
30% - Exercises, Projects & Online Discussion
20% - Tests and Quizzes
____
100% - Total Points
Marking Period 1: 30% / Marking Period 2: 30% / Marking Period 3: 30% / Final: 10%
