COMMUNICATIVE ARTS (SPEECH)

St. Wendelin Catholic High School, 2007-2008

Mr. Ferguson

Text:  Carlisle, Clark, S, Hensley, Dana V.  38 Basic Speech Experiences Clark Publishing

 

Course Description:

Students will recognize and apply basic and creative technique in oral presentation.  Students will gain confidence in the ability to speak in front of a group.  They will prepare and deliver oral presentation, speeches, and reports with an understanding of purpose and audience.  They will learn to use appropriate body language and eye contact and to express ideas clearly, audibly, and expressively.

 

Expectations:

1. Bring the textbook, notebook to every class.

2. Take notes and pay attention in class.

3. Complete assigned readings, homework, and speeches before each class period.

4. Treat others with respect and dignity, both inside and outside of the classroom.

5. If you need something clarified, then ask questions during or after class.  Questions and class discussion are encouraged.

6. Tests must be done in blue or black ink, and must use CAPITAL LETTERS for multiple choice answers.

7.  SHOW RESPECT TO OTHERS WHEN THEY ARE PRESENTING

 

Grading:

Grades will be determined utilizing a total point system. Each quiz, assignment, test, speech etc. is worth a maximum number of points. Students will earn a percentage of the maximum number of points possible for each requirement. Final grades will be determined via dividing the student’s total earned points by the total maximum number of points possible.

Total of Student’s Earned Points/ Total Points Possible = Grade Percentage.

St. Wendelin’s grading scale will be utilized to determine letter grades.

 

Semester Exam:

All students will be required to take the semester exam. No exemptions will be given. Students are responsible for all material, handouts, readings, discussions, etc. covered throughout the entire semester (everything is fair game for quizzes, tests, or the semester exam). The semester exam is not an open note exam. Students will not be able to use their notes during the semester exam. 

 

Attendance and Tardiness:

Attendance in class is obviously mandatory if the student is in attendance at school. Students cutting class will receive a zero for any work, quizzes, or tests occurring in class or due on that day and will be referred to an administrator for disciplinary action. Tardiness will not be tolerated. If there is a reason for the student to be tardy, the student must have a note from the office or another staff member excusing them. Students that are tardy to class will be referred to an administrator for disciplinary action. 

 

Late Work:

A grade of zero will automatically be given for all assignments missed without a valid excuse documented in the school office prior to the assignment being due. Students missing work due to a valid excuse must see me before the next class to acquire and complete the assignment. After an absence, students must see me concerning missed work, if not students will receive a grade of zero points. The student is solely and fully responsible for reading and understanding the above policies. The student is also solely and fully responsible for contacting the teacher concerning missed work, lectures, assignments, handouts, quizzes, tests, syllabus modifications, and any other class material Eligibility for, and schedules of, make-up work will be determined by the teacher.

 

Types of speeches you will do this semester:

  1. Personal Experience
  2. Informative
  3. Demonstration
  4. Persuasive
  5. Interview (with a partner)
  6. Award acceptance (with a partner)
  7. Film Review
  8. Poem

 

 

Syllabus Modifications:

This syllabus is a guide and, hopefully, we will not deviate from it. However, deviation may still occur. I reserve the right to amend as time necessitates. Changes in the syllabus will be announced in class. All students, whether attending class or absent, are responsible for all syllabus changes. If you have any questions or need additional assistance, please take advantage of my availability.  I am available each day before and after school.  We can also set up an appointment for extra help or questions.  Scheduled appointments are preferred.  I am available in my office across from the main office or by email at joe.ferguson@st.wendelin.org.