Syllabus

Course Overview

Speech and Debate is an elective that provides a judgement-free arena in which students can practice and gain confidence in their ability to communicate in a public setting. Students will be expected to participate in all classroom presentations as well as reflect on their performance in order to improve throughout the semester. The class will cover a broad range of oratorical purposes from comedy to persuasive speeches to bill presentations before a mock Congress. Students will also develop research skills, synthesize information, and engage in argumentation. Additionally, guest speakers from the community will share their thoughts about the art and craft of public speaking. By the end of the year, students will better be able to think critically, write clearly, and speak effectively.

Course Objectives

Students will…

1. Learn and practice delivery techniques that enhance communication

2. Develop an awareness for posture, voice, gestures, and pacing

3. Write and speak for a variety of purposes (humorous, persuasive, informational, interpretive, extemporaneous/prepared, and occasional)

4. Memorize selections to convey authenticity

5. Reflect on and evaluate their performances throughout the year

6. Understand and take part in the structure of classic debate

7. Think critically and formulate persuasive arguments

8. Evaluate and select facts for inclusion in oral arguments

9. Organize and synthesize evidence that supports a claim

10. Anticipate and refute opposing arguments

11. Expand their awareness of current events and issues

Units of Study

Students will over the course of the year be exposed to various types of debate=Lincoln Douglas, Policy Forum, and Congressional(parliamentarian); speech=Oratory, Expository, and Impromptu; and Interpretative Speeches=humorous, dramatic and duo.

Grading system: Students are graded according to the Greenville High Academy English grading policy:

Major Grades (tests, major papers, projects, and presentations) - 60%

Minor Grades (quizzes and class work) - 40%

Greenville High Academy’s grading scale is: A=90-100, B=80-89, C=70-79, D=60-69, F=0-59.

Supplies:

Students will need a charged Chromebook, headphones that are compatible with school issued Chromebook.

Late Work: The late work policy is school wide and will be followed in this course. It is best to turn work in on time when assigned: 10 points off per day for a maximum grade of 60 if turned in by end of unit, maximum grade of 50 if turned in after the unit.

Texts: The texts used in this class comes from student's own research in debate units. The "textbook" lessons are derived from materials developed by National Speech and Debate organization of specific event requirements. We do not read whole works as a rule in this classroom.