loudandproud

Hi Summer Writing Campers of 2011!

2011-06-28T10:25:00.000-07:00

What a great first day of camp--You all are so bright and talented! Let's use this blog to communicate this week! Post here by using "comments below"--be sure to click on anonymous if you don't want your own blog to be set up! For our first blog, post here: Your name, and a favorite quote OR song lyric--be sure to include the source (author)--also feel free to comment on others' selections, but only positive or thoughtful comments--no critical comments ok? I'll go first: "Great writing...really great writing, happens in the revisions"--John Gardener-----I also like: "Baby, you're a firework..." --Katy P.

Final: Study Guide/Team Effort

2011-05-06T23:19:00.000-07:00

Please post the names or name of your group and the numbers for each word or concept (from the study guide)--Keep things brief! Thanks all--Coffee was fun!

Your (drumroll, pleeeeese....) LAST BLOG OF SPRING

2011-05-04T22:32:00.000-07:00

Hi Gang! What a wild and crazy semester! We've seen some interesting film and video clips, witnessed some unexpected news and world affars this spring and made some new friends too! Pat yourself on the back, it is not easy staying in school, especially with these trying economic times. I am proud of all of you! Every person who has stuck it out in our broken-down, ghetto-fabulous portable with the 20-year-old television and no air conditioning is a better speaker going into summer! For this final post, please share your favorite moment during student speeches and the most important thing you learned in our class (either from your teacher, the book or fellow students). Thanks and have a wonderful summer! Keep in touch now! Blog-on--S

Ideas for the Final!

2011-04-27T02:37:00.000-07:00

3 weeks to go!!!!! Shut up! Really? Time flies! How was break? For this week's blog, post an idea or two of what you would like to see happen with our 301 final on 5/12....Essay? Multiple choice? Other suggestions or ideas? Unusual or unexpected ways to assess your public speaking mastery? Let's hear you ideas!!!

Spriiiiiiing Break!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Woo hoo!

2011-04-13T18:01:00.000-07:00

Hi! Have fun and be safe!!! For this blog, write a short, four line rhyming poem about spring break and start reviewing the textbook for our final in May! Each line has to rhyme. Creative and clever musical aspects can make public speaking more unique and lyrical--Let's see what ya' got!

"Spring break is sic
I like to dance and kick
I want to eat fries
all week until I dies"---

Earth Day!!!

2011-04-07T17:23:00.000-07:00

Hi Gang! Next week is earth day! I am hosting a 'star gazing' party over ay CRC from 830-915pm on Wed 4/13--come for some extra credit and check it out! We'll be on the south east corner of the lawn facing the public library on the Hwy 99 side of CRC campus --it is only 10 minutes from SCC! Snacks will be served!5 points for coming and up to 15 for writing up an earth day "action plan" using class vocabulary--BUT only if you come to the star party! For this blog, post one thing you and your friends can do (ideally: FREE!) to celebrate EARTH DAY, by cherishing, cleaning up or improving something on our lovely planet! Be sure to use some public speaking vocabulary in your post (The persuasion chapter in your book)

EARTH IS HOME---HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS! Smiles--S

Outlines/No class today: 3/29--I am sick!

2011-03-29T12:48:00.000-07:00

Hi Gang--Class won't meet today, I am very sick, but with meds, will be back TH to review persuasive speeches/give persuasive quiz. For this blog, let's talk about your outlines: Persuasion requires heavy support of your main points (3-5 for this speech)--Support points with a good analogy (comparision) or a great bit of evidence or even a clever or heartfelt example. Since you have chosen your topics, here is a good chance to get feedback: State one of your main points and support it with strong, relevent evidence. Ask your readers for some input if you like. If you use research, tell us about the source. Be sure to site sources both in the speech itself and afterwards in your references section of the outline. Smiles--Sandra

Only 4 weeks until SPRING BREAK!!! 3 Part Blog

2011-03-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

Hi Gang! Let's talk about PERSUASION! How will you persuade yourself and your classmates to come to class and stick it out for the next 4 weeks...after break it's all coasting downhill, right? RIGHT??? Lets get those grades up and come to every class, why not get the best grade possible?! Everyone has the potential to improve a full letter grade between now and finals! Follow these instructions for this week's pep-talk-blog:

1. ) Visit this site for awesome and realistic persuasive speech tips:
http://www.brighthub.com/education/homework-tips/articles/53098.aspx
Write a few key ideas/tips down and try them!

2.) Use one thing you learn from this website in #2 to persuade the classmate who posted a problem right before you here on our blog. Persuade them to hang in there! Inspire them to overcome!!! Go in order, so "help" the person who posts immediately before your post.

3.) Post one complaint or struggle you are having in our class, or just school in general this semester. What will be challenging for you between now and BREAK? What's a goal you need a push on? You can use fake names or classes if you don't want to hurt anyone's feelings.

I'll go first: When the rain and wind are stalling spring's arrival, I get bogged down with grading. I need some good persuasive advise on how to overcome the weather blues and get everything graded so my students know their midterm grades!!!!!!!!!!! Help!!!!!!!!! I'm barely hanging on here...........................

Quiz: Social Network

2011-03-17T04:16:00.000-07:00

Choose 5 terms from either part 5 or part 6 in your speech textbook. Underline them and include the pg # for each. Define the 5 and apply them to a character or a theme from the film. Don't post, type this up and it is ue Tuesday March 22nd in class or by email please wheeleS@crc.losrios.edu-- Refer to this blog for ideas: thesocialnetwork-movie.com

"The Social Network"

2011-03-10T22:01:00.000-08:00

http://www.thesocialnetwork-movie.com/

Hey--a million dollars isn't cool...you know what's cool? A billion dollars!Hope you like the film--we'll finish it up Tuesday--the link above is to the official website for "The Social Network"--check it out...bring your notes for the quiz! Think about these aspects of the film...what are the key ethical questions raised in the partially true story? What's the irony in a friendless, techy-geek-social outcast developing the biggest social network in the world? Whose your favorite character? Does the film inform the audience or persuade them? What is the film saying about money? What is it saying about values? What is it saying about friendship? What does it say about college? In our book, chapter 23 on informative speaking talks about the analogy as a great way to establish common ground for understanding: Audiences can grasp new ideas best when they have something they already know to relate them to (163). The team sport of Crew at Harvard is used as a kind of analogy in the film--what is it being compared to? Is it effective? Is Facebook good or bad? Helpful or dangerous? Inquiring minds want to know!

Demonstrations for Dummies

2011-03-02T16:12:00.000-08:00

Hi There Everyone--After the midterm it is time for us to work on Informative Speeches--You will speak for 5-7 minutes on an unusual or "revelatory" topic, sure to WOW the crowd! Don't say the word SHOULD or else you've crossed over to the "persuasive" side! You may choose to demonstrate something or even make a How-To speech (ie: how to set up a facebook page or how to plan a train trip....) Pick a topic that excites you, or else we will ALL be bored and have to paint fake open eyeballs on our closed eyelids so you won't know we are SLEEPING....zzzzzzzzzzz.......So for this week's entry, let's start with really BAD topics so we know what we DO NOT want to hear about....Post here, the very WORST possible demonstration topic you can possibly think of...what would be just awful to watch, just painfully dull or straight up rediculous--why would that be abad choice? ...I'll go first: I would not want to hear a demonstration speech about sleeping. Why? Ummmmm.......YAWN....it is making me drowsy just thinking about it!!!!

Lady Gaga is Speechless?

2011-02-23T15:29:00.000-08:00

http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/l/lady_gaga/speechless.html

Visit the link above and read the lyrics to Gaga's tune "Speechless"--What does the concept of silence mean to you? Is it effective as a tool of communication? Is silence powerful or weak? As a "public speaker" how does Gaga challenge gender roles and encourage diversity? The "generalized other" is a communication term we can use to talk about societal/cultural and gender norms and behavioral expectations. The generalized other points a critical finger at difference, so how does the song Speechless either react to or ignore the generalized other?

Speaking for the People: President's Holiday

2011-02-15T21:56:00.000-08:00

Hello and remember everyone: No class meeting for Comm 301 this week on Feb 17th! Start Presidents' Day festivities a day early! Also Feb 18th and 21st are campus holidays for Presidents' Day fyi. We start with group speeches the following Tuesday--In the meantime, please email me at wheeleS@crc.losrios.edu if you need any group speech help! Each member of each group is required to submit their own individual copy of the group outline. This week here on our blog-o-rama, I need you to look ahead to spring break! Get excited, it is just around the corner! Woo-hoo! April 18th-24th! Once we make it to that it is downhill friends! Okay, think about it, get motivated and then blog here: Every good speech should have a clear thesis--the main point of your speech, right? The book calls it your 'central idea!' Chapter 8 reminds us to creat thesis statments that are relevant and motivating--Use key words in your claim to make it POP! (p. 54). Construct a great thesis statement here and use high energy, key words and active language to state something about spring break, make a thesis statement about anything to do with planning, scheduling, destinations, instructions, what to take, when it is or should be, where not to go, how to make it until then, ect. Kep this blog short, direct and super powerful and creative: Let the thesis's begin!!!!!

Mine: As concerned students, we must band together and create a giant count-down to spring break calendar for the fountain quad of Sacramento City College. Wouldn't this motivate everyone to push through until break???!

Groups and Bands

2011-02-09T09:16:00.000-08:00

Hi Gang--we are 25% of our way through the spring semester! Hooray for you hard working students! Those info speeches were so interesting--Thanks for the great enthusiasm! Now...this week we'll start on your group speeches...and bands are my favorite kinds of groups to observe! There's always a leader right? Oh, and there's always drama! Sometimes they break up and one goes solo, one hits rehab, one ends up in reality TV...It's always a suprise! As we prepare to write and present group speeches, think about your favorite band. Tell us who they are and what kind of music they make--How long have you been a fan? What's ONE THING we thing we can learn about public speaking (or performing) from your favorites? Or what can we learn from their mistakes? Rock on people!

BLOG 3: Parts 1 & 2 from Textbook

2011-02-02T19:39:00.001-08:00

Hey gang! Hope you enjoyed the group activity--Everyone did really well! Parts one and two in your textbook cover getting started and development--The begining foundation of successful public speaking--For this post, please find a good quote or idea from chpts. 1-11. Next make a proper MLA or APA citation quoting (directly or paraphrasing) your tip, concept or idea. Finish this post off by stating in your own words how you think this information will help our classmates or by providing a good example! Thanks for playing gang! Smiles--Sandra

Blog 2: Introductory Speeches

2011-01-25T22:23:00.000-08:00

For your first speech, you will introduce a classmate after you and your partner interview each other. Speakers should speak for about 2 minutes each on February 1st (Tuesday) using the outline found here on the blog, CLICK on the right hand side on 'outasight-outline' near "syllabus" under 'pages'--Organization is an important aspect of public speaking. It requires planning and logical flow of thoughts. Are you an organized person or is the idea of an outline frustrating for your creative, free-flowing spirit? Try to think of the outline as a helpful "map" of where you will take your audience. Use signposting (words like 'first' and 'now' and 'turning to my next point' and 'finally') in a good speech to keep the audience following along as you cover a begining (introduction) middle (body) and end (conclusion).

A brief outline is worth 10 of the points in this first speech assignment, so hand me your outline, typed only, after making your intro speech. During your interview, ask unique and unexpected questions to get material for an amusing, exciting or compelling speech. Your interview notes can be turned into an outline from there. For this speech, you will share two interesting and factual things about your partner and then include one bold faced lie the two of you agree on. After the speech our class will try and guess the lie--Prizes may be awarded! Interview will take place on Tuesday during class so don't miss out! Respond to the following prompt for this blog:

Using an outline makes me feel ___________. Why? What part of the outline are you most concerned about/not understand/hate using? How can we make using the outline FUN??? Respond now, inquiring minds are awaiting your brilliant response!!!

Welcome Spring 2011 Public Speaking Bon Vivants!!!

2011-01-18T23:30:00.000-08:00

Bon vivant is a French term for one who lives the "good life!" Hope the syllabus made sense to you--I have it posted here on the blog for you too, in case you lose it or sell it or whatever.... Click on "comments" right underneath this prompt to respond to this first practice blog by

1.) typing your name into the textbox and
2.) letting me know you understand the syllabus--get a shout out if you like!

Remember to click on the 'anonymous' bubble right below the textbox if you don't want to join blogger or you do not have a google or yahoo account and just want to post quickly and get on with your "good life!" Let the smooth-talking begin!!!! Smiles--S

Monroe and Farewell!

2010-12-06T02:32:00.000-08:00

It has been so great to work with all of you--Happy Holidays! In chapter 7, Monroe's Motivated sequence is explored as another way to attempt persuasion in addition to our class outline format--There are 5 steps: 1.ATTENTION (Address listener's core concerns), 2. NEED (isolate and describe issue), 3. SATISFACTION (identify solution), and 4. VISUALIZATION (use descriptive language to make audience SEE solution at work, ie: vividly describe a world without polution) and 5. ACTION (call to audience to demonstrate their agreement with you, ie: Vera's speech when she had us sing at the end). The final will address Monroe's motivated sequence in addition to audience analysis and fallacies. These tools are a great way to write a good organized essay too, so you can use them well beyond our class--For our final blog entry here, please attempt Monroe's step 4, using powerful, colorful, vivid and symbolic language to create visualization to persuade the rest of us to adopt some family or cultural ritual which YOU believe strongly in during this holiday season! You have until December 13th to post. Feliz Vaccaciones Amigos! Happy New Year!!!!!!

Special Occassions!

2010-12-01T23:35:00.000-08:00

Hi Gang! Sorry for the delay, but here we are--two blogs left to go! This week we can focus on special occassion speeches, either eulogies, introductions, commencement addresses, holiday toasts or even roasts! From a film you either love or hate, describe a great special occasion speech! Did it work? Why or why not? How did the rhetorical situation play into the audience expectations for the speech?

Persuasion is POWER!

2010-11-22T04:02:00.000-08:00

Hey Gang! Happy Holiday! Great speeches on information this past week! Wow! This blog will earn you double credit as part of the assignment instead of coming to class on WED 11/24. Persuasive speech holds power because it is a means of changing attitudes, beliefs and/or values!

DETAILS
On December 1st, Nancy, Bev, Erik, Navpreet, Brittany, Giavanna, Mark, Nayyar, Romila, Jeremy, Vera and Annalise will make their persuasive speeches. The class on the 3rd will be everyone else's turn to make their persuasive speeches, with Tracie going last because she always has to "go first!" (wink) If you don't go when you are scheduled on the first night, you will drop one grade on your speech fyi.

2 copies of a complete class-sanctioned outline, typed
3 visual aids
3 research oral citations--Paraphrased or quoted
Full References section at the end of your outline

BLOG TASK
Post your persuasive topics here and I will either approve or make suggestions as we go--be sure to read other posts and make sure you aren't taking a topic that someone else already posted! LIst your topic and a good working thesis. TIP: For persuasion to be effective, you must use the word "should" in your thesis! Also, offer the audience an opportunity for extrinsic change (External) --That means in your CONCLUSION give them an action they can take to demonstrate you have persuaded them (sign up for something, commit by raising hands, join something etc).

Use this outline please.

OUTLINE
INTRO
Attn getter
Thesis w/Purpose
Preview main points A-C
Connect to audience
Credibility statement
Transition

BODY
MP A (visual and support citation or evidence/examples)
MP B (visual and support citation or evd/ex)
MP C (visual and support citation or evidence/examples)
Transition

CONCLUSION
Conclusive language
Thesis restated
Summary of MP's A-C
Memorable Ending/Call to action

REFERENCES (3 in alphabetical order)

Narrative Form

2010-11-12T23:57:00.000-08:00

Hey Gang! Hope this blog finds you well! As we prepare for informative speeches, the book reminds us that several different organizational patterns are effective for longer speeches: Chronological order, spatial order, casue and effect order and circular arrangement. In addition, we find the narrative, a story telling device. One way to organize a good speech is as a story might unfold. Twists and turns, a clever plot and an unexpected ending! Think of the best form for your speech organization and, in the meantime, help us create a clever narrative here. I will begin our story and each person posting should continue to advance the narrative (tell the story)--There are two rules: 1. You must use the name of someone in the class and 2. Use vivid, active language. Type aproximately one paragraph please to keep the story developing!

Public Speaking Nightmare
--by the 301 class that meets in the metal shop

One night Sandra was locking up the metal shop (the mysterious classroom used for speeches, yet filled with metal working supplies where her fabulous class met twice weekly). All of the students except Anthony and Beatrice had left for the evening. Sandra didn't realize they were still inside and she locked it up and set the alarm for the night. Little did she know, it would freeze that evening and with the fan constantly running in the metal shop, it would be below zero for several hours. Anthony became delirious and fell on top of his textbook when he realized what happened, but Beatrice had a plan. It required the most important speech she would ever make and the use of a very tall, cold steel ladder. She must..................... (next story teller jump in!)

Impromptu Midterm: REMAIN CALM!

2010-11-07T18:41:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends! This Wed we will perform unprepared, or impromptu speeches! To get ready, the best thing to do is memorize the outline. Next best: REMAIN CALM LIKE the above image! Then on speech night, all you have to do is draw a topic and just fill in the blanks--I will grade you on how well you remember outline details and apply your topic as well as how much of the outline you include, plus your delivery. You might want to memorize an attention getter, like a good quote or funny yet PC story or a clever saying.

For this blog, type in a good generic attention getting statement and include a reference so we can help each other succeed! The book reminds us that impromptu speakers should speak, slowly, and use repetition as a way to review for the audience but also collect the speakers' thoughts if he or she gets stuck or forgets something (ie: "As I said, or "It bears repeating...") Also smile and "fake it 'til you make it!" (Meaning: act confident and your audience will believe you are! Don't mumble, use strong gestures and speak loudly and clearly!)

Listening

2010-10-28T21:27:00.000-07:00

A great speaker must first be a sensitive and invested listener--Anonymous

In the textbook we learn...oh, wait, the bookstore never got the book....um, well, we would have seen that listening is important and very different than "hearing!" Tell us about a really good or really awful listener in your life (maybe use a fake name to protect the innocent!) What do they do to make you feel "heard?" Let us know as a class if we were good listeners during your introduction speech! Good listeners give lots of "minimal encouragers"--they make compassionate noises, nod, agree aloud withoug being disruptive and sometimes paraphrase back to you what they understand you to have stated (ie: "It sounds like you feel strongly about world peace" for instance). Good listening enhances relationships and validates those we care about--Make it a focus this semester! By the way, what are the gender differences in listening? Do men and women listen differently? Keep blogging people!

FALL 2010 Late Starting Class

2010-10-22T10:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Gang! I got the add slips signed and on there way to admin--FYI--Welcome to our blog! For this weekly post please include your name and let me know who you interviewed for Monday's speech--also please include a question about the intro speech if you have one and suggest good topics for us to talk about here on our class blog! I already am really enjoying our class--you guys are interesting! Smiles--Sandra

College Pays BUT Some jobs don't...fyi

2010-05-10T12:31:00.000-07:00

Tips for my scholars!

Last Blog Until Summer!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-05-06T17:16:00.000-07:00

It's been a wild ride kids! Whoknew one could be so productive so gosh-dang EARLY!!!! Everyone who stayed in the class has grown and improved, what a nice group of students and friends! I am happy to have had you in class and hope you keep in touch! idnasss@yahoo.com is my personal email--Let me know if you ever need teacher references and such! One thing we didn't have time to do in class is the "anti-speech"--so let's do that here! First, though--what to expect for next week:

Our last week of class:
Mon 5/10: Class begins early at 715am. Bring coffee!!! Finish all persuasive speeches except: Alyssa, Lupe and Keona. Also hand out TAKE HOME final. Blog at home to finish up.
Tues 5/11: At home finish the pop-log and complete your final.
Wed 5/12: Snacks in class, what can you bring? Croissants? Doughnuts? Juice and cups? Keona, Lupe and Alyssa make persuasive speeches/turn in pop logs/talk about your pop-log for 2 minutes or so, share a highlight/turn in final.
Mon May 17th: No meeting for the final/BUT reach me at home during this time with any questions/grade concerns or updates/school advice etc between 8am and 930am via email wheeleS@crc.losrios.com OR idnasss@yahoo.com

NOW: Post below, in the form of a PG rated "rant"--OR hip-hop style rap:
One thing you didn't like about me, my class or the portable we met in and use logic and persuasion to validate your claim! Have fun with it, I won't take it personally...however compliments accepted too! Smiles--Your Proud Teacher

BKWLD--Double Cool/Douple points, for crying in the night!!!!

2010-04-27T20:28:00.000-07:00

There is a new and oh-so-cool company in town doing really well right now called BKWLD--It is innovative and internationally recognized. Their site is a good PERSUASIVE VISUAL tool WHICH CAN help us to understand audience analysis and why it matters for interactive marketing as well as public speaking. Their blog also demonstrates other ways BLOGS are used in the professional world, not just cheesy community college classes held in broken down portables!

1. Check out their SWEETwebsite at BKWLD.com for 15 min or so -- especially the "our work" icon -- see the cool clients they rock, like Gavin Rossdale (Mr. Gwen Stefani!) and T-Pain and Ice-T, even Indiana Jones' Games!
2. Shake your head slowly, say aloud "Dang that's hip!" to no one in particular...
3. Post something nice/complimentary anywhere on the site for DBL credit for this week! EZ as ABC:
A)--post it on their site at 'contacts' OR B) email them at mailto:info@bkwld.com Or try option C) --post a comment on the BKWLD blog by clicking on BUKlife. From their website your comment will show up on my blog so that I SEE U did it. Keep posts VERY short, just a line or 2 about what you like about their company, philosophy or website, or congratulate them on their success, then type in your full name followed by (Sandra's speech class at SCC.)
Here's the kicker, you MUST use the phrase "for crying in the night" when you post!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
FOR EXAMPLE:
Dear Ryan and the BKWLD team,
For crying in the night, I just love your killer graphics on this site!
Smiles, Donny Kay from Sandra's speech class at SCC
PS:::
I will decode/explain and unpack the mystery in class as long as my alarm goes off tomorrow. XO

Persuasive Topics Due 4/19

2010-04-19T12:20:00.000-07:00

Hi Gang--Hopefully you remembered not to go to class on 4/19!!!! Keep working on those pop logs and for this blog please submit your preferred persuasive speech topic, and tell us a bit about why you chose this topic for our final speech of the semester! Why does it matter to YOU??? Remember this speech is 6-8 minutes long and includes 2 visual aids and 3 oral citations with complete references! You must state the purpose as persuasive using terms such as "convince," "insist" and or "strongly urge!" Feel free to post enthusiasm about classmates topic ideas or offer input for additional blogging points! See you for more great speeches in class! If you make it out to CRC for the extra credit star gazing tonight, call or text my cell at 799-7930 to find us around 8pm, but rain could cancel the event fyi! Smiles--Sandra

INFORM This! On bats,glow worms and spring break.....

2010-04-04T03:45:00.000-07:00

Hi and welcome back from spring break--We arein the home stretch towards summer now--time to crank it up and push for the grade you know you deserve!!! This means attention to all outline details...say it with me now: Introduction including attn getter thesis/purpose, preview of mp's, credibility, connection to audience and transition, then the body including 3 main points supported by analogies,examples and citations and visual aids, transition to the conclusion, which includes conclusive language a review of main points, restatement of thesis and a memorable, fabulous ending, followed by an alphabetical list of references you sited from according to APA or MLA---By the way--how fun were the impromptu speeches? Great topic suggestions!

On to informative speaking, when we tell our audiences either about something new and unusual OR provide new insight or a new take on an older idea! For this blog, we'll do a kind of topic brainstorming exercise to open your post-spring break mind again! you need to read the previous posting and pull a potential informative topic from the previous student's idea--So post a favorite film, song or artist along with a key point that attracts you to this subject--the next person who posts can show how to take that FABULOUS bit of info and turn it into a GREAT speech theis ofr an informative speech! I'll get us started--I watched the Planet Earth BBC series and got a huge kick out of the bats and glow worms--creepy weird crawly things and flying creepy things too! I learned that bats' poo actually is the mainstay to a cave ecosystem since it doesn't get any sunlight for photosynthesis and glowworms have a gland in their behind's that produces a "glow" so they can trap and eat their prey! GROSS, but kinda cool too--now somebody turn these musings into a good thesis for an info speech followed by your own observations/viewings or listenings!

Chapter 14-22 QUIZ: Write down answers Or print out--Due Mon 4/5 in class!

2010-03-24T04:19:00.000-07:00

1. From Ignacio and Megan: Choose the best way to minimize powerpoint complications:
A). Familiarize yourself with the audio/visual equipment ahead of time.
B). Use a significant amount of loud, flashy visual and sound effects.
C). Save files and presentation material into different folders, usb ports and flash drives.
D). Avoid horizontal stripes.

2. From Alyssa and Michelle: Which is NOT part of an introduction according to Sandra's annoying outline:
A). Thesis
B). Examples and Support
C). Attention Getter
D).Credibility Statement

3. From Dan and Stan: Which of the following is not an effective use of language?
A). Malapropisms
B). Concrete Language
C). Alliteration
D).Analogy

4. From Celia, Victoria and Mando: According to chapter17, a speaker who delivers a well recieved speech should ____________.

5. What factors influence the proper volume of good speech delivery? ____________ ______________

6. From Keona, Anthony, Frank, Joe: In chapter 14, name and describe at least 2 types of outline. (2 parts)

7. From Alex and Jazmine: "Boldface" in chapter 21 refers to:
A). Speaker confidence and use of "bold" expressions.
B). The proud leader of the Native American tribe who established the 5 cannons of rhetoric.
C). Aristotle's boyhood nickname.
D). Bold lettering style/font.

8. From Alyx and Kylen: T or F ???
A Flipchart combines sound, video, text and images into a single production.

9). While speaking, connect with the audience by making:
A). Eye contact
B). winking and then blowing on the tip of your index finger as though it is a hot gun that just went off.
C). Dates with single audience members.
D). popcorn

10). From Sandra: Haphazardly pointing the bright light of the outdated overhead projector right into the eyes of the class while slurping coffee is an example of ____________.

11). When should a handout be distributed during an effective speech? ______________________

12). The "Talking Heads" in chpt 19 are:
A). A bad rock band from the early 90's Sandra enjoyed before losing her hearing.
B). A special occassion speech which includes elaborate head movements but no gestures.
C). Speakers who remain stiff or freeze behind a podium or microphone.
D). Little sayings you might say to yourself if nervous during your speech to prevent fainting. For example: "I'm good enough, I'm smart enough and gosh darn it I can do this thing."

13). For my informative speech topic, I plan to discuss __________________ .

St Pat's Ye ole' Irish Blog (no class, not the blog, Wed 3/17, there is no class)

2010-03-15T22:09:00.000-07:00

Whenever any speech student pretty much in the entire world mentions the most scary, exhilerating, crazy and intimidating form of public speech: Yes, reckless Impromptu speaking--immediately these four faces from our sassy classroom should come to mind--Kyle, Joe, Keona and Alyssa. As you know, together they formed an Irish garage band that tours Greece and Western Europe during the summer, appearing at euro car lots and falafel stands around the world!!! Their music is unique because it is all impromptu, never rehearsed or even written down ahead of time!!! They refuse to memorize an outline, they are public speaking rebels! In concert, Joe unexpectedly will riff a chord, and without warning Kyle takes it to a drum beat and the girls make up lyrics on the spot. While their songs are often unintelligible confusing nonsense, the kids just love it. Fans can't get enough of their top 10 hits like the hip-hop-country number: "Do Popcorn Nice Key 26?" and who can forget (or remember) the popular impromptu ska-punk-ballad "Rake Flat Skirt Mop Thimble"--One of their loyal fans told me after a mindblowing gig, "That was really loud and confusing!" That's just how they roll--it's freakin' what happens when you do outline-free-impromptu." When asked about why she loves them, another fan just cried because of the chaos and threw up her falafel. As you can see, fierce impromptu causes a real gut reaction people!

Now for your own impromptu midterm, we need some good topics, so let's hear a few you hope to pull from the envelope next Wed to make your 2 minute unprepared musical masterpiece! For this post, tell us your topic suggestion AND tell us if you have everbcaught the Comm 301 Band pictured above (Group Name: Ellen is Irish) in concert, share some good (fictional, G-rated) fan lore...or name your favorite (fake) impromptu hit by the group! Rock on!

Tuition is going up to 40.00 per unit I hear!

2010-03-03T22:56:00.000-08:00

"Thousands of students, teachers and parents in California and across the country are expected to stage rallies, demonstrations, walkouts and other actions Thursday to decry what they say is an assault on public education at all levels." Read more at http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-protests4-2010mar04,0,4387493.story

"Tomorrow's so-called Day of Action is in response to education funding cuts that have affected schools nationwide, but have been especially severe in California, where public colleges and universities have canceled classes, ordered furloughs and layoffs and enacted unprecedented student fee increases" (Rivera TIMES).

The budget is a wreck, it seems! Colleges need more money and will offer fewer classes too...As a public speaker, smarty and all around SCC superstar, what can you do to send the message to the top--We need to make it easier for everyone who wants to to go to school, not HARDER! Agree? Disagree? Sleeping? Chime in!Smiles--S

I Can See the Writing on the Wall...I mean the palm.................

2010-02-23T11:23:00.000-08:00

Yo kids, I have lost my voice completely, Steve is THRILLED!!!! Haha...I can whisper...don't forget we meet at the cafeteria tomorrow, 2/23...bring your typed responses on the Bono Speech(not Bow-No) from the book in chpt 25. I have tosay I am really enjoying our class discussions--still cracking up about sharing embarassing stories!!! For this blog I want you to tell me what you thinkof the Whole Palm Gate scandal??? review the text and short video below to get in on the scandal:
http://www.theatlanticwire.com/features/view/feature/Palins-Palm-Gate-721

I don't want your personal opinion of Palin.

What I want to hear is a discussion of why this "rhetorical act" matters and how it challenges our ideas of "Competent" leaders and "cheating" --why does it matter that this was a pen note on her hand instead of her using a teleprompter? Does it matter? What kind of expectations do we have of our leaders when it comes to public speech? How does "Palm-gate" violate or challenge those expectations? Most importantly: Who is gonna buy my coffee Wed? JK!!!

Oh John, What Were Ya Thinkin'? Audience Analysis Much?

2010-02-16T20:19:00.000-08:00

http://new.music.yahoo.com/blogs/stopthepresses/106715/john-mayer-breaks-down-in-tears-after-public-apology/

DO NOT USE THE KEY TERM OF THIS CONTROVERSY IN YOUR POST. REFER TO THE TERM JOHN USED INAPROPPRIATELY AS ____. (4 UNDERSCORE LINES AND A PERIOD)
ANY OTHER REPRESENTATION OF THE TERM WILL BE DELETED BY ME OUT OF RESPECT.

I just read this update on the John Mayer controversy du jour and I think it totally relates to our audience analysis component in 301. I'd like to get your input on the situ, but I want us to stick to our agenda. So avoid emotional reactions and instead, step into your rhetorical critic lab coats, fellow scholars and check out the on-stage apology at the You Tube link above along with YahooNews's take on the incident, or review the TEXT of the interview (uh, that would be the words not the pictures).

So I'm not asking for your personal opinion of the artist or his choices here, what I'd like is your take on where he went wrong analyzing his audience. What are the assumptions he seems to keep making about his "audience" that prove to be inaccurate? (He's got a long rep with "off the record tweets" and too much sharing about previous relationships. Elle Decor Magazine has an atricle on line about his Manhatten Apartment, and despite his lack of discretion, I have to say he's got a sweet pad. Anyhoo, I digressed...)

Assuming he had decent intentions, give John some "compassionate" feedback here, like we do for each other: Give him feedback on one thing he's done well to analyze and respond to his audience during and/or since the interview and then point out one "opportunity" he needs to keep working on (ie: why did he think they'd percieve his use of the racial epitaph as acceptable? What did he mean, "trying to intellectualize the N-word?"

Movies and Clips

2010-02-05T11:10:00.000-08:00

Owl Purdue On-Line writing lab for Movie/Film citations

Hi Bloggers! This week we will show video and or DVD clips for oral presentations! Click link above for a citation review for your film or TV show references. Things to remember: Cue up or know what scene or chapter you'll play before the speech. Adjust volume, face class rather than screen as much as possible, move around the room during the clip, set the clip up briefly but clearly (name of film, point of scene, maybe what to watch for). Quickly remove your media when finished to prep for the next speaker. For this blog, tell us what your all time favorite movie or program is? Why? Do you like humor or drama, or love stories or documentaries??? Finally, what can we learn about audience (our classmates) by seeing what others like and bring in to show us this week? PS: Showing the clip on Wed and hearing you guys crack up was fun for me! I love a good comedic moment, even at toddler viewing level!!! Hahahahaha...cough, choke, wheeze....

First Spring 2010 Blog for Sandra's 7:30am Class

2010-01-27T23:56:00.000-08:00

First of all, whew! We got through the downpour, the deadly typhoon-monsoon of the begining semester and you lived to tell about it! People, we attend campus when it is still dark outside, are you crazy??? This class is EARLY early...I think I still had some dried toothpaste in the corners of my mouth yesterday during roll and a few of you were wearing pajamas! Any-hoo... here we are blogging, this week we'll talk about the State of The U speech by Mr. Pres, agent of change himself, Barack Obama! Here you can read some of the transcript for the speech if you missed it :
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100128/ap_on_go_pr_wh/us_obama_state_of_the_union_text

You may watch or read just a portion or the entire speech depending on your time restraints. As you consider a few things, I'd like to get your name (in your 6 line minimum post below, click on comments) and some thoughts about the rhetorical situation (speech context both physical AND emotional). Remember, though it is billed a live speech in front of a present audience of warm bodies (well, some of those senators may not have actually still been breathing...) the true intended audience of the state of the union address was who? Where? I don't want your personal opinion of our president here, I want insight and observation of a speech by a critical observer (YOU). What was one rhetorical situation-aspect that was somehow referred to in the speech? Check other entries and postings, repeating another student's answer will result in no credit for this blog. It was a LONG speech there'splenty of stuff to pull out and talk about! See you in class bloggers!!!

HAPPY BREAK EVERYONE!!!!!!!! HO HO HO!

2009-12-02T15:57:00.000-08:00

Last Blog: Twas the night before finals....

2009-12-01T11:05:00.000-08:00

..........when all through the crappy, filthy portable we call our classroom, not a creature was stirring (because even mice would reject our broken-down classroom and opt for a dumpster or something cozier) not even the teacher (exhausted by all the AMAZING persuasion she has experienced during your FAB speeches!) The stockings were hung-over the smudgy 15 year old white board ( a chimney? heck no! That would set the whole place on fire in no time, especially our paper-thin scrap wood walls) in hopes that the final (?) soon would be over with, not that we won't miss each other, (keep in touch on-line, if you haven't forgotten how to use the internet due to our ghetto/ low-tech room with only a dusty 1997 DVD and rusty overhead that projects straight onto the bare, banged-up wall).....FALALAL--LALALALA!

After my heart-warming holiday tale, I bid you farewell from COMM 301 blog-land--double credit for this last posting: Pick a cultural practice important to you this time of year (could be ethnic/could be spiritual/could be familial in nature) and tell us about it in a couple sentences...then relate it to the concept of audience analysis--perhaps the most important skill you will take away from this class--considering and adapting as sensitively as possible to your listeners and making it clear that we are all very different, but if we want to have important, difficult and eye-opening discussions, we can find common ground and convey mutual respect--REMEMBER: reasonable people can and often do differ in opinions but most of us want the overall big picture goals in life: Happiness, stability, love and connections. Your mastery of persuasion along with our thrilling political debate next week between Ryan and Brad are grounded in these closing ideas of the fall 2009 semester! See you at Coffee Garden on Franklin this Wed Dec 2nd at 8pm, I will bring the final details, you bring cofee $$ and your textbook/paper and pen and your "sacred writng log" or journal or stack of messy crumpled papers--call 799-7930 if you get lost--Smiles and Hope--Your proud teacher!

In Lieu Of Class on 11/25: On-Line Session

2009-11-19T15:12:00.000-08:00

Here is your quiz gang: No comments allowed below, just print it out OR write down the numbers and fill in your answers and bring it along in 2 weeks when we meet at The Coffee Garden on Franklin at 8pm. All my good thoughts for you and yours during Thanksgiving, you are a FABULOUS bunch of creative, entertaining and well-spoken folks! (Please bring your books along to Coffee G, you need them to prep for the final!)

COMM 301 DIY PERSUASIVE QUIZ

1. In persuasive speaking the main points are called
A. Reasoning
B. Claims
C. Fallacies
D. Non of the above

2. There are 3 different types of claims. Which of the following is not a type of claim?
A. Value
B. Fact
C.Appeals to tradition
D.Policy

3. Which of Maslow’s needs are the most basic? ____________________________________________.

4. What is the most abstract level of needs on his hierarchy? __________________________________.

5. Which 2 below are not on Maslow’s hierarchy?
A. A trip to Las Vegas
B. Belonging (social)
C. Safety
D. Self esteem
E. Non-sequitor

6. How many steps are there in Monroe’s motivated sequence? _____

7. Name one of Monroe's steps: _____________________

8. “Little Ms. Muffet sat on a tuffet, got nipped by a spider and died. If you see a spider, run or you will die!”Which fallacy is this an example of?________________________

9. Justify your answer for #8 using class vocabulary: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

10. What fallacy can be found in this example? “Everyone likes Gucci so you should come up with the money and buy it as soon as possible!” _______________________________________

11. What is a good word to use in your thesis when clarifying that your speech purpose is persuasive? ______________

12. T or F : A good example of the "either or fallacy" can be found in how popular UGG boots are again this winter. _________

13. Using key vocabulary words from your persuasive chapter in the book, write a 6-8 line rhyme, poem or rap. Underline or capitalize the vocabulary words. (5 points)

Fill in the blank!

2009-11-11T18:56:00.000-08:00

It's not too early for the Thanks part of Thanksgiving, so I'm super thankful to have you guys in my class! Now A blog quickie: Pick someone who hasn't been mentioned yet, extra credit for more than one entry.Fill in the blanks: 1. I really have enjoyed ____________'s work in class. 2. He/she has improved in _____________ since we began meeting this fall. 3. ____________ rocks dah' freakin' podium, son.

Persuasive Speaking! Pg 176-203

2009-11-05T00:18:00.000-08:00

OMG--I so enjoyed those commererative and acceptance speeches! You guys were really entertaining, thanks to everyone who came out for that credit or no credit 25 points speech! Since there is no make up, those of you who missed should really cover all details of the persuasive speech to try and catch up. Email me any time for grade updates between now and the end of the semester! For this blog post a question you have about this assignment or this chapter in the book which you and your classmates can really benefit from. Extra credit for offering input to others who post constructively!

Below is a review of your persuasive handout for this next speech assignment:

Persuasion: p176 reminds us that persuasive speeches should influence attitudes beliefs or values and actions of others. Audience analysis is more important than ever! If you don't understand and know some one, how would you possibly influence them? Spend time reflecting on who your audience is...are there ways you can be inclusive and show respect to those who might feel differently than you on a subject you'd like to speak about?

p 177 reminds persuasive speakers to balance reason and emotion (logos and pathos)--In short, listeners must see that a topic matters in order to care about it, but the facts will drive the changes home! Review chapter 16 on description and emotion for stronger emotional appeals in this speech! On p 178 we see that credibility is more important when persuading as well--in addition to your introductory commentson credibility, you should refer to it during your body and conclusion as well! Also review Maslow on human needs to address your crowd with pinpoint accuracy! Back up claims with strong evidence! (P181). Understand facts, values and policies in terms of claims your speech will forward (p182).

In your closing comments, briefly address counterarguments or rebuttals. These are the primary nay-sayers against your attempt to persuade, found in the media or populus at large. In just a few sentences, acknowledge the other side and gently, gently, respectfully, discredit it by repeating your thesis and reviewing strong main points before ending your conclusion memorably! Avoid fallacies and be as organized as possible (186-187) . Also, it is important to stress and integrate 3 oral citations during the body of your speech, clearing signposting these moments with phrases such as "According to __________ in 2005, metal is really hard!"

Outlines are due early for this speech, for 10% of your persuasive speech grade!

OUTLINE:

1.Introduction

A. Attn Getter (More than just a question/answer. Go sophisticated!)

B. Purpose (To persuade) +Thesis (Main Idea (Claim) including the word should or another imperative)

C. Preview of 3-4 main points which narrow and focus the thesis

D. Credibility: Expertise

E.Connection: Why this matters to us and to you, how we all can benefit from your speech

Transition: A clear 2 part "Now that ________ let me take a look at ________"

2. Body (Include 2 strong visual aids)

A. Main Point One (Claim from the preview above supported by examples,experience, research and or facts that serve as evidence) Oral citation 1 and visual aid 1

B-D...Repeat 3 or 4 times, including a reminder about credibility

E.Transition to closing
3. Conclusion
A. Rebuttal/acknowledge other side using conclusive language AND credibility reminder (ie: Before I wrap up, let me say there is a movement out there to ignore global warming, that it is "not true")

B. Review the main points (claims) and restate the thesis (Major claim)

C. End memorably (Higher expectations this time)

Include reference page at end of typed outline using APA or MLA

Speech is 6-8 minutes, 2 copies are required on your speech day --one for each of us.

Chapter 20: PRESENTATION AIDS

2009-10-26T22:35:00.000-07:00

HEY GANG--PAGE 141 OR SO IN THE BOOK OFFERS THIS TIP: Don't just show a visual aid, explain it and weave it into the speech structure, artistically to make it do important things: Support a main point AND add attention getting devices in the body to keep distracted busy listeners engaged! Huh? Did you say something? What? sorry I drifted off...Anyhoo--Props and graphs are a bit more professional than photo-collage type aids if you have to make something yourself because, say, your classroom is actually a broken down trailer with no computer and a bare wall instead of a slide screen. Anyhoo....as we have seen, the overhead transparency is not dead, as previously rumored around the time we lost Michael Jackson, so those are cool too, just cover them up in between points! For powerpoint slides, remember the 8 by 8 rule: Only 8 words per line and 8 lines max per slide: LESS IS MORE when it comes to visual support (Sandra Wheeler Abeyta, 200....well, just now) Be sure to offer citations for visuals you get on-line or in books...Us big simple fonts and save handouts for the end of the speech or they become disruptive! There, I said it...So this week, if you please...let's talk powerpoint. Tell us one thing you feel reaches you as an audience member , like a good use of powerpoint or a good powerpoint technique (ie: Easy to read and sound effects). Then mention a powertpoint practice that bugs you or is distracting. If you want, without using names we can kind of make fun of somebody you know that ""overdoes it"" with powerpoint. Thanks! Happy Halloween!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

INFO SPEECH COUNTDOWN: Next week for most of you!

2009-10-16T21:40:00.000-07:00

Time: about 6 minutes

Topic: Must be approved by Sandra BEFORE speaking in class!

Visual Aid: 1 required per Textbook standards, with citation

References: Two sources, 2 oral citations minimum

Grading: points evenly distributed over organization, content & delivery.

Points: 100

Order: Grades docked for missing class on sign-up day/time.

Outline: See below, same as midterm PLUS References/oral citations. One copy due to me BEFORE you make the speech. Optional: Early copies emailed to idnasss@yahoo.com for extra input/editing/tips.

Overview: As an audience we will be listening for a new perspective on an old idea OR new information.

Speakers goals: Teaching us something by focusing us adequately, avoiding ‘persuasion,’(should should not be in your thesis/purpose), attempting audience interaction at least once, as well as being appropriate as you explain, instruct demonstrate or describe and ultimately offer the potential of life enrichment to us.

Bottom line: What often makes the difference between a C speech and an A or B? Contagious enthusiasm! Convey how much you care about your topic! (Brydon and Scott 368).

Outline Review: INTRO--attn getter, thesis/purpose, preview mp's, connection, credibility, transition to deeper exploration of mp's in body--BODY--main points 1-3 repeated and explored in depth supported by examples,research,analogies orpersonal experiences and visual aids, transition to conclusion--CONCLUSION--conclusive language, restate thesis, review briefly the main points (tell 'em what u just told 'em!) and end with a BANG!--Alphabetical References list Per APA or MLA (Not spoken, just included for me with the outline)

Also provide feedback for the speaker who goes immediately after you do! (10% of grade!)

For this BLOG, due next WED please let your classmates know what you hope to gain through peer feedback, ie: what would be most helpful to hear from classmates about your speech? Sounds easy, right? Ok, if you want credit, turn it into a RAPor a Rhyme or a Poem! Can be funny or serious, whatever you like! About 5 or 6 sentences ONLY! Email me with any questions on the info speech! idnasss@yahoo.com.

MY RAP

YO YO YO, SANDRAH IN DAH HOWWWSE:

WHEN I GET FEEDBACK I LIKE TO HEAR

SOMETHING GOOD I DON'T WANNA FEEL FEAR

ABOUT MY GRADE CUZ I DON'T WANT IT 2 SUCK

ONCE I MADE A SPEECH ABOUT A LITTLE LOST DUCK

DON'T B 2 HARSH, BREAK IT 2 ME GENTLY

IF I SAID UM 2 MUCH WHILE I WAS ROLLIN' IN MY BENTLEY.......WUUURDDDD

What about personal experiences????

2009-10-08T04:59:00.000-07:00

That narrative ROCKED! Thanks for a great laugh and demonstration of creativity! Now, on to the use of personal experiences--can we use them in our info speeches? YES! Audiences, as out textbook reminds us--respond well to a mix of research based information and personal experiences to support your main points of your speech! How do you credit these personal experiences you ask? Something like this:

FOOD IS GOOD
"Now that you know how important food is, let me tell you about the time I myself ate some food!" Woo-hoo! (Ok-- not too exciting, but you get the idea!) Followed by research: AFter I realized eating food would curb my hunger, I discovered an editorial in Time Magazine from May of 2007. In this piece, everyone polled claimed to like eating some sort of food! Smith actually stated, "Food keeps me alive!"

Your turn: Pick an overly generic, way-too-basic topic, make up a title for the pretend speech and then link a personal experience as well as a faux (or real) research citation to support it using clear signposting (words that label the outline parts, such as "according to" or "Research states..."). Just like I did above. Also, in lieu of our meeting this week, please think about technology and the ways it has enhanced or set-back public oratory. Spend some time reading about this either on-line or in the library and we'll discuss it after the impromptu midterm. Don't forget to memorize the outline for next Wed and to bring in your article to write the introduction about afterward! Email me with any questions this week at idnasss@yahoo.com!

Exploring... no, that's dull, I know: EXPLODING the Narrative!

2009-10-01T14:02:00.000-07:00

Time to Tell a Story...together!

Using a narrative, or story-telling technique is a great way to add style to a longer speech! A good story teller doesn't say too much (no rambling) but just the right amount of colorful highlights are included in a brief and intesting was to gain our attention and keep us involved as the details of the speech unfold. Read about this in your textbooks and try it here this week as well. I'll go first. Be sure to read everyone else's entries before you type yours so it makes sense. Add on one 5-7 line paragraph to keep the story going--no profanity or non-PC language please. Also include a reference to one class member (yourself or some one else) in your entry. An audience loves to hear their name mentioned!

OUR STORY TITLE: "Public Speaking Skills Can Save Your LIFE!"
On an ordinary day in an ordinary town, a seemingly ordinary student sat in an ordinary college classroom. There was just one smal, extra-ordinary detail: Johnny Z was a top-secret. public speaking-super hero. Although at first glance, he appeared as ordinary as the students around him, beneath his hoodie he wore a glittery golden cape and concealed super powers, such as 'instant credibility," "transitions for every occasion" and "mind-blowing attention getters." Sitting at a broken desk in the dank, trailer-like portable, JZ pretended to be texting before tonight's class while he actually checked in at super hero headquarters from his fancy I-phone. The words he saw on the tiny screen sent shivers down his spine and he realized tonight would be like no other evening in the history of public speaking instruction. The text from headquarters warned Johnny Z the super hero to expect a catastrophic public speaking event that very night in COMM 301 at 7:47pm: "No!" he gasped, not during my Sacred Writing Time!" Just then the classroom went completely dark. Except for the glow worms...

My Demonstration Speech: How-To Conduct an Orchestra for a Symphony

2009-09-24T23:48:00.000-07:00

One form of informative speaking includes the demonstration and/or a How-To speech. These are process explanations, which, if involving cookies that we eat at the end, can be darn good rhetoric people! Bakers, you know who you are! However, many complex processes just can't be explained if a few steps as part of a 6 minute info speech, in a broken-down -trailer.... OH, sorry, I mean a fine community college portable with a dusty overhead projector and no screen.(!) FOR THIS BLOG: Consider here, and reveal, what would a really bad demonstration be about? Why would it be unrealistic or rediculous to try and demonstrate this? Finally suggest one dangerous and impractical visual aid for this speech that should never be made! Keep it PG and show me some audience analysis with your amusing response! (I am not kidding about the cookies people)

Swift Recoveries and Funny Spoofs

2009-09-19T17:14:00.000-07:00

Quick, watch this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRvzl0zOsO8&feature=player_embedded

couldn't resist--it seems interruptions are everywhere! REP senator Wilson interrupted Pres Obama, shouting "you lie" during the health care reform speech, then Kanye threw down during Taylor's acceptance speech...is heckling the new applause? Has the world gone mad? Speechmakers everywhere must unite and support eack other, how does one survive interuptions? Let's prepare JUST IN CASE --what happens if/when Kanye or Senator Wilson interrupts you right after your thrilling attention getter people??? It could happen! (More likely: Paul's cell phone rings in class) Will you lose your place...get thrown off, be horribly embarassed??? Will you curse, cry, maybe even rise above the event to come out shining even brighter than before...maybe Beyonce buys you Starbucks or gives you a cow on Farmville....

GET TO THE POINT SANDRA! This week tell me here, what did you think of these two recent moments from a public speaking perspective? I am NOT asking your opinion of the people OR even their specific behavior and words, I am asking you to comment on the rhetorical situation: The way the speaker handled it and how a good speaker might be prepared for such a thing...is it effective to address the heckler or just ignore them and move on? What do you notice in on-line clips of either speech as far as reactions to these interuptions? How do they make the audience feel? Are there social rules and expectations surrounding these types of unscripted, awkward moments? Can you think of another recent example? Finally, what would you do if you were interupted by either Kanye or Carolina Senator Wilson in our classroom at CRC during your big moment???

Credibility: Street Creds

2009-09-10T11:33:00.000-07:00

Hey gang--Don't forget, next week we make the group speeches--bring popcorn and snacks, it will be a fun class--maybe we'll hit coffee garden afterwards? We'll see what time we finish--Excellent meeting on 9/9!--You all worked really hard! NOTE: I repaired the problem on our blog with anonymous posting, so you can post away without dealing with any hassles by using the anonymous bubble--Just be sure and type your name along with comments! So, credibility is important for a successful speech. Visit my You Tube masterpiece "The Making of Sandrah's Thesis" at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F16X_AoVd9I (haha) I made this short film with a crew at Sac State as part of my thesis. According to this silly "Making of..." mockumentary, what might I be credible to speak to you about? In 5 or 6 sentences, identify a line or scene and connect it to my credibility:

Here's an example: Don't steal it! ...in one scene you didn't have any cash and couldn't buy parking, so you would be credible to speak about student parking issues here in Sacramento.

Read all previous posts and don't repeat what someone else has said or it won't count, and you may be playful and light-hearted in your examples, as long as you make a connection between what you see and the idea of speaker credibility, or "ethos." See you next week!

Now that I have your attention......

2009-09-03T15:23:00.000-07:00

Atention getters: A great place for us to start talking about good speeches. Think of a speech or speaker you either admire or can't stand! How do they hold the attention of their audience? Do they do it well? Why? Typically, unusual visual or video samples, startling statistics, moving quotes and even PC jokes can be used effectively. Combine them for even more "wow"power! It is most important to begin and end memorably, but peppering the speech throughout with these clever devices is even better! Be sure they suit the theme and tone of your speech overall! Feel free to share a link in your response so we can see what you are talking about!

Comm 301: Introduction to Public Speaking

2009-08-26T17:39:00.000-07:00

Fall 2009
Sacramento City College

Textbook: O’Hair, Dan, Rubenstein, Hannah & Rob Stewart. (2007). A Pocket Guide to Public Speaking. Bedford/St. Martin’s: Boston.

Instructor: Sandra Wheeler Abeyta, MA
Email: idnasss@yahoo.com
BLOG: loudandproud (web address: http://www.scc301.blogspot.com/)
Office Hours: 715p-745p in Temp 5
Classroom: Temp 5
Class meeting time: 745p-1050p

Course Description: This course is exciting and unique! You’ll be talking more than me as we explore public speaking techniques, theories and models. Enact, apply and evaluate communication strategies which will help you both in and outside of the classroom. By making speeches, participating in various in-class activities, completing course assignments, writing and orking in groups-PLUS reflecting on how elements of communication apply to you, you’ll develop greater mastery of communication and gain confidence speaking in all sorts of settings, from the classroom to the office to the stage, even across the table from powerful executives!

Course Objectives: Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
DESIGN AND RELATE MESSAGES CLEARLY FOR EFFECTIVE AND APPROPRIATE ORAL COMMUNICATION (SLO#1).
• Analyze an audience using age, gender, cultural variations, and other appropriate measures.
• Design, deliver and differentiate a variety of speech types, including, at minimum, the speech to inform, to entertain or relate (within a special occasion), and to persuade.
• Identify, evaluate and apply appropriate nonverbal techniques.
• Design presentational aids, audio and/or visual, appropriate to the audience, message and context.
• Recognize and respond to techniques for managing communication apprehension.

APPLY EFFECTIVE LISTENING SKILLS TO COMPREHEND SPOKEN MESSAGES, ANALYZE INFORMATION CRITICALLY AND CONSIDER MULTIPLE PERSPECTIVES (SLO#2).
• Demonstrate critical listening skills.
• Recognize and model constructive feedback.

COMPOSE IDEAS CLEARLY IN EFFECTIVE, APPROPRIATE AND WELL-ORGANIZED WRITTEN MESSAGES (SLO#3).
• Compose fully developed, structured, and unified oral presentations, including formal written outlines.
• Locate, interpret and evaluate various research materials to accurately document sources (in oral and written form) according to a standard referencing style (MLA, APA, CBE, etc.).

ANALYZE AND FORMULATE CRITICAL THINKING WITHIN EVIDENCE AND REASONING OF SPOKEN AND WRITTEN MESSAGES (SLO#4).
• Assess, evaluate, and apply a variety of rhetorical strategies that are effective and appropriate per the purpose, occasion and audience.
• Apply language techniques and strategies appropriate to the audience and occasion.
• Arrange, paraphrase and effectively integrate evidence and/or supportive material into a presentation.

ASSESS INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY WITHIN ONE'S ABILITY TO INFLUENCE ETHICAL, EFFECTIVE AND APPROPRIATE COMMUNICATION AMONG DIVERSE SETTINGS AND PEOPLE (SLO #5).
• Recognize and apply ethical standards to the research, design and delivery of a message for an audience and occasion.

General Course Policies
1. Attendance: Coming to class has a HUGE impact on your grade! It tells me how committed you are and conveys passion and interest. I award points for each day JUST FOR COMING! Don't miss out, these points can't be made up and poor attendance will prevent you from passing this class. After 3 absences you lose 10 points for each subsequent absence, and after 4, I will administratively drop you.
1.B) Tardiness: If you are late to class, it is your responsibility to check with me before leaving class that day in order to correct the attendance record. If you are more than 20 minutes late to class, you will be considered absent. Consistently arriving late to class (regardless of the exact minutes missed) is also problematic: 2 “tardis” are equivalent to one absence.
2. Late Assignments: Assignments are due at the beginning of class. If they are not turned in at the beginning of class they will be considered late. I will accept late written assignments only with prior warning and only within one week after the original due date. Late work will be penalized one full letter grade (regardless of whether the assignment is two hours late or two days late). Speeches, exams, attendance, quizzes, partner evaluations, and presentations cannot be made up. NOTE: Speeches and presentations made on days that you show up late/leave early will be docked one half letter grade.
3. Cell Phones: Turn them off please! For crucial situations, set them to vibrate or silent. If your cell phone continues to go off in class, I may administratively drop you for not following course procedures. Texting during class will be treated the same as talking verbally out of turn—it is disruptive and rude. You can be dropped for texting in class if it becomes disruptive.
4. Participation: A great deal of this class will involve the discussion of concepts and in-class activities. Many of the in-class activities will be given credit/no credit participation points. I expect every member of the class to fully participate.

Department/Campus Policies

1. Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment is offensive and illegal and will not be tolerated in the classroom! Sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual advance or requests for sexual favors or any other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature in the work or college setting. Using profanity that consists of sexual innuendo or sexist language (a slur or pejorative towards a gender)are considered a "verbal" conduct that may be an unwelcome advance. If you feel that you have been the recipient or a witness of sexual harassment by any other student enrolled in the class, please report the concern immediately to the Instructor. The Instructor, the Dean or the school student conduct personnel will address a report of Sexual Harassment immediately in a confidential, professional manner. See http://www.losrios.edu/legal/gc-discrm.htm#sexual%20Harassment for more details.

2. Academic Honesty: Los Rios Community College District values academic honesty. Current policies prohibit dishonesty, such as cheating, plagiarism, or knowingly furnishing false information to the college. All members of the academic community are responsible for the academic integrity of the Los Rios College campus. See http://www.losrios.edu/ for more academic dishonesty clarification.

2.A) Academic Honesty Process: 1. Faculty members have the right to choose whether or not to pursue suspected cases of plagiarism and cheating.2. When addressing plagiarism or cheating with reasonable evidence, the faculty member should notify the student of the concern.3. Faculty members may consult with other faculty, the Dean of the pertinent division, and the office of the Vice President for Student Services when determining whether plagiarism or cheating has occurred.4. In situations where cheating or plagiarism has occurred, the faculty member is to determine consequences in compliance with board policy and regulations, which prohibit dropping a student from a course. The consequences may be any of the following options: giving the student a verbal or written warning, giving the student an additional assignment, giving the student a zero on the assignment assigning a grade of F for the course determining other appropriate consequences that comply with board policy and regulations.5. In situations where cheating or plagiarism has occurred, the faculty notifies the Dean of the pertinent division, and the student that a “Referral for Student Code of Conduct Violation" will be filed through the Area Dean to the Office of VPSS.6. Students have the right to grieve an action that they feel violates their student rights.7. The office of the Vice President for Student Services (VPSS) shall be responsible for maintaining records related to cheating and plagiarism. Probation, suspension or expulsions are courses of action that may be determined by the College Disciplinary Officer in accordance with District policy.

2. B) Definition of Plagiarism: Plagiarism is defined as representing the words, ideas, or work of another as one’s own in any academic exercise. Plagiarism consists in taking the words or specific substance of another work and either copying or paraphrasing without giving credit to the source. Plagiarism is applicable to written, oral, and artistic work. The following examples are some of the many forms plagiarism may take:1. Word-for-word copying of work written by someone else.2. Failure to give proper credit for ideas, statements of facts, or conclusions derived by another.3. Failure to use quotation marks when quoting directly form another, whether a paragraph, sentence, or phrase.4. Close and extended paraphrasing of another work without acknowledging the source.

2. C) Definition of Cheating: Cheating is the act of obtaining or attempting to obtain credit for academic work through the use of dishonest, deceptive, or fraudulent means.The following are only some of the many forms cheating may take:1. Copying another’s work on a test, paper, or project.2. Using unauthorized materials in an exam or collaborating on work to be turned in for credit where the instructor disallows such collaboration.3. Taking an exam for another student, purposely allowing another student to copy during a test, or providing coursework for another student to turn in as his or her own effort.4. Submitting the same work in multiple classes for credit without permission from the instructor.

3. Emergency and Evacuation Procedures: In the event of an emergency, the Instructor or another authorized person may need to follow the Emergency and Evacuation Procedures established within the policy of the campus and will require your compliance and cooperation. Typically, the Emergency and Evacuation Procedures are posted within the classroom. Each of the above policies is designed for your and each persons' safety with the intent for a rewarding academic experience possible. See http://www.scc.losrios.edu/FacultyStaff/Emergency_Procedures.htm for more details.

Grading Scale/Assignment Overview
15% Blogging = 200 pts
5% Sacred Writing=40 pts
20% Attendance & Participation = 240 points
20% Quizes, Midterm and Final = 240 points
40% Speeches & Reports = 475 points
Class total points = 1195
Grade Percentage: 90-100% = A, 80-89% = B, 70-79% = C, 60-69% = D,
Below 60% =F

Sacred Writing: A time to disconnect from the pressures of the outside world, pause, reflect and most importantly: EXPRESS YOURSELF. Keep this like a journal, you'll hand it in a few time over the semester, but I won't grade it, just give you credit for your participation. For the first 5 minutes of class, your pen or pencil must be in motion! Go poetic, be serious and deep, write hip-hop lyrics, make a to-do list--whatever--just write! Alright?

Blogging: Extend our classroom discussions and enhance deeper understanding as each week you post a (6 sentence minimum) response before class. Extra points awarded for connecting to other bloggers by name, referencing classmates and book/lecture materials. New posts will be introduced every week by instructor based on hot classroom topics. Once a new post comes up, the old one is no longer "live" and late hitting comments will not be counted.

Attendance Participation: Come to class, support other classmates, speak up, get involved and be kind and courteous to win these points! You’ll be rewarded just for showing up! (or lost if you miss class.)

Quizzes & Midterm: Random pop quizzes are short answer and can't be made up. They focus on previous week's reading/lecture/speeches. Midterm is an impromptu speech, no make ups. (2-3 minutes)

Final Exam: Comprehensive including all quiz material, short essay. Scantron 882

Speeches & Reports: See list below--Also provide feedback for other speakers to demonstrate audience analysis.

Introductory speeches: Done with a partner, you each introduce each other. (2 minutes, 35 points).

Group speeches: Experience rhetorical invention by working in a group to share a vital topic with the rest of the class. Details given in lecture. (100 points, 5-7 minutes)

Special occasion speeches: Recognize important events and cultural celebrations vividly (3-4 minutes, 50 points).

Informative speech or Demonstration. See book/lecture for details for this solo speech, including hot topics, visual aid and citations (5-7 minutes, 100 points).

Persuasive speech: Change an attitude, belief or value in your audience using visual aids, citations of research and avoiding faulty reasoning (6-8 minutes, 150 points).

Oral reports: Apply elements of media and real life experiences to our text while speaking eloquently (2-3 minutes, 25 points)

Anti-speech speech: TBA, (2-3 minutes, 15 points)