Equivalency Details

This course is designed to introduce the knowledge and skills needed to present effective oral presentations and to construct clear arguments using credible evidence. Topics include: adapting messages to an audience, demonstrating appropriate use of ethos, pathos, and logos in the organization and delivery of a presentation, demonstrating college-level research and critical thinking skills, plus designing and using effective visual aids. All students will deliver individual and team presentations. Required of all undergraduates, this course must be completed during the first year of study. 3 credits

The course emphasizes the strategies necessary for planning, developing and delivering oral presentations, which range from individual informative and persuasive speeches to group panels and workshops. Class discussions focus on adapting information, organization, and delivery styles to meet the needs of listeners. Classroom activities are performance-based, with students delivering speeches, responding to classmates, and leading class discussions. Videos made of student performances provide opportunities for selfevaluation.

The Honors section of Fundamentals of Speech moves beyond emphasizing strategies for and practice in delivering basic informative and persuasive speeches of the non-Honors section. In this course students also examine styles of oral argumentation and gain experience in supporting an issue through research and logic as well as in answering and counter-arguing opposing evidence to a position. Students practice their skills in individual speeches as well as in team presentations. Moreover, students lead class discussions as well as give feedback to classmates. Videos of students? performances provide opportunities for self-evaluation.