Final Grades

Students,

All final grades have now been posted.  Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thank you for an exciting semester!  I'm always happy to help former students in any way I can, so please let me know if you need anything in the future.  Best of luck on your future endeavors, and have a safe and restful holiday break!

Amanda

Final Exam Information

The information for the final exam can be found here.

I have published the questions and instructions for the take-home portion of the exam.  You can view the document here.  Remember the take-home portion is due at the beginning of the in-class exam.

Exam Times:

Crowder Classes -- Monday, December 13th at regular class times

MWF 11:30am Class -- Thursday, December 9th at 4:00pm

T/Th 2:00pm Class -- Saturday, December 11th at 4:00pm

Wed. Evening Class -- Wednesday, December 15th at 5:30pm

(Optional: Wednesday evening students may take exam on December 8th at 5:30pm)

U of A Evening -- Make-Up Speech Opportunity

U of A EVENING STUDENTS ONLY:

Because your class loses two weeks (Thanksgiving break and Dead Day), your make-up day had to be scheduled on the evening of the Final.  That sounds super stressful to me. . . Add to that the fact that I will be on campus for my graduate class on Wednesday evening anyway, and I figured I might as well offer your class the opportunity to make-up speeches on Dead Day.

I am adding an extra make-up day for U of A Evening students ONLY -- Dead Day

(Wednesday, December 8th at 5:30pm in Kimple 410)

This is optional -- you can still give your speech after the final as planned.  This will just add another time when you can give your speech if you want to get it out of the way early. 

Business PowerPoints

Since some of you are focusing on presenting in a business setting, I thought this video was appropriate. It's short, sweet, and he has some great ideas!

No points for this one -- it's just an interesting video.

Persuasive 2 Topics

As you continue to work on your Persuasive 2 speeches, let's see what the rest of the class is working on.  Enter you topic (or topics if you're still deciding) into the form below.  The results can be viewed here.

This is required, but no points will be awarded.

Death by PowerPoint

Below is a presentation created by the "Corporation for a Skilled Workforce" on how to prevent what they call "Death by PowerPoint."  Watch this presentation (you can turn off the sound if the song is annoying to you) and fill out this quiz to receive up to 5 points.

Monday classes -- due November 22nd before class

Tuesday/Thursday -- due November 23rd before class

Wednesday class -- due November 24th by midnight

Increasing the Odds of Persuading Your Audience

Although we are finished discussing persuasive strategies, you should still be thinking about how they will affect your next speech.  Below is a checklist for the ways you can increase your chances of persuading your audience.  This is fair game for the final exam, but is not worth points as an assignment!

Persuasive Critiques

I'm psyched to listen to your speeches this week!  Now that you're all starting to feel a little more comfortable in front of an audience, I'd like to encourage you to start thinking critically as audience members.  I posed some questions to you the other day -- and I hope you listened for these traits in your classmates' speeches. 

For 5 quiz points, choose one of those speeches and analyze it using two of those questions (printed on the form).  The form is located here.

Monday classes -- due November 15th before class

Tuesday/Thursday -- due November 16th before class

Wednesday class -- due November 17th before class

Preparing to be Persuaded

This week, you'll be presenting your first persuasive speech.  You'll also be watching the persuasive speeches presented by your classmates.  I'll be putting up a blog post tomorrow that will allow you to identify the persuasive techniques employed by the other speakers in your class (worth 5 quiz points).  In order to be able to complete the assignment, you will need to be critically analyzing your classmates' speeches.  Think about the following questions as you listen/watch:

1. Where do they employ persuasive techniques?
2. Did they adapt to their anticipated audience receptivity?
3. Were you persuaded?
4. Did they use logos/pathos/ethos, Maslow's hierarchy, etc. 

You may want to take notes during and between others' speeches so that you are equipped to answer these questions on the blog activity.  I will not give you these questions if you ask in class.  You  need to BE PREPARED and have them written down in your notes.

Monday classes -- due November 15th before class

Tuesday/Thursday -- due November 16th before class

Wednesday class -- due November 17th before class

Stranger Danger

DISCLAIMER -- This video has some bad language in it.  If you are offended by the use of bad language (in humor, not violence, force, etc.), please email me, and I will give you an alternate assignment.

Though there are many persuasive personalities in our popular culture, many of them do not employ solid reasoning.  One group who I have found to use solid evidence is the magic and comic duo, Penn and Teller.  They have a series called "Bullsh!t," in which they discuss current issues in a comical, but persuasive manner. 

Watch the episode called, "Stranger Danger" (links below) and complete this quiz to receive up to 15 points. 

Monday classes -- due November 8th before class

Tuesday/Thursday -- due November 9th before class

Wednesday class -- due November 10th before class

When you follow the link, you will see a notice that the video has been taken down.  Wait just a few more seconds, and it should load just fine.
Stranger Danger -- Part 1
Stranger Danger -- Part 2
Stranger Danger -- Part 3

The Toulmin Model

Today we discussed the Toulmin Model of argumentation.  However, we were only able to briefly skim the surface of this cornerstone persuasive theory.  The fine folks at University of Nebraska Lincoln Department of Communication Studies have created a comprehensive tutorial of this concept -- available for you to explore. 

You can complete the four steps of the tutorial here, and if you complete the assessment page with at least 80% accuracy, I'll give you 10 quiz points. 

MEGA IMPORTANT NOTE: You must PRINT the assessment page before you click Submit -- Clicking Submit DOES NOT send your test to me!!!!

Monday Classes -- Due November 8th before class

Tuesday/Thursday -- Due November 9th before class

Wednesday Class -- Dues November 10th before class

Adapting to Your Audience

We have talked about audience analysis several times in the past, but this concept is particularly important when we are attempting to persuade our audience.  The handout below gives specific ways you can adapt your topic to your audience's anticipated reaction.

You can also take a 10-point quiz on this handout here. 

Monday classes -- due November 8th before class

Tuesday/Thursday -- due November 9th before class

Wednesday class -- due November 10th before class

This information is also fair game for the final exam.

U of A -- Afternoon Class

University of Arkansas (Tuesday/Thursday) Afternoon class ONLY --

Please be reminded that we will NOT have class this Thursday (October 28th).  Feel free to email me with any questions you might have.

Sample Persuasive 1 Speech

Here's a sample of a Problem-Cause-Solution persuasive speech. If you'd like to see a second example, click here.

This post is just for your reference -- you may comment if you like, but no points will be awarded.

 

Persuasive 1 Topics

Enter your name and up to three topics you are considering for your 1st Persuasive in the FORM BELOW (you won't be able to type them into the spreadsheet -- you must enter them in the form).  If you've already chosen a topic, you should only enter THAT ONE TOPIC.  That way, we know if a topic is already on the table, which will help others avoid duplicating.  Before you enter your topics, be sure to see what others have entered here.  This is due by class time next week.

This post is required, but no points will be awarded.

Crowder Afternoon Schedule

Crowder College afternoon students ONLY:

Remember that the afternoon class will begin at 2:15 (as scheduled) from tomorrow through the end of the semester.  Please contact me if you have any questions.

Sample Informative 2 Speech

For those who learn best by examples, here is a good informative speech from a previous class.  Enjoy!



Outline Template

I've embedded the link for the "Outline Template" in the Outlining PowerPoint.  For easy reference, HERE it is again.  It might be worth bookmarking. . . ?

This post is just for your reference -- no points awarded.

Introductions, etc.

Today we talked about introductions and conclusions. I've also shown you some examples of speeches from my classes. However, there are lots of other speeches on the internet -- some follow our format, and some don't. To receive 15 quiz points (all or nothing), find a speech online that meets the following guidelines:

1. The speech must include an introduction.
2. The introduction must include at least 2 of the 3 parts of a good introduction (as covered in class).

To get the points follow these directions:

1. Once you find the speech, and paste the URL address into a blog comment.
2. List the 3 parts of a good introduction, and list whether or not the speaker has included each.
3. Tell us (in a sentence or two) what you think of the introduction -- is it good or bad?
4. Does the speech include transitions? What is the conclusion like? Is this speech a good example?

Monday classes -- due October 18th before class

Tuesday/Thursday -- due October 19th before class

Wednesday class -- due October 20th before class

Trouble with Delivery?

We are about half-way through the class at this point, and you should have delivered 40% of your speeches.  Now that you're getting more comfortable in front of an audience, let's talk about delivery.

Create a new comment and:

1. List the area of delivery that you struggle with MOST.  This can be what you perceive as your weakest element, what you think is the hardest part about delivering the speech, etc.

2. Let us know how you are coping with this.  Do you have a strategy to help you avoid the distracting behavior?  Are you trying different things in preparation to help you become better?  Is the strategy working?

Your comment should be at least two full sentences long.  A thoughtful response will receive 10 points.

Monday classes -- due October 11th before class

Tuesday/Thursday -- due October 12th before class

Wednesday class -- due October 13th before class

Speech and Exam Info

Please note that I have renamed the "Documents" tab to read "Speech and Exam Info."  Hopefully this will make it easier for you to navigate to speech instructions, rubrics, and self-critiques.  Please let me know if you have any questions.

Midterm Exam THIS WEEK!

Don't forget about the midterm exam this week!  Many of you may not be very familiar with completing essay-style exams.  Since there is a good amount of writing in this test, I wanted to share some links with you:

Here is a Washington University webpage to help political science students -- they make excellent points on constructing your answers, though I suspect this is targetted towards a slightly larger exam than ours.

This webpage is from a Florida State biology professor -- the first section is extremely similar to my own point of view, so it's worth a look.  You probably won't want to spend time looking over his examples, though, since the subject matter is so different from ours.

Finally, this short video is a nice discussion of answering longer essay questions (you'll have ONE of these) -- if you've never had to answer a 3 - 5 paragraph essay question on a test, this is DEFINITELY worth watching.

Remember, you can access the instructions for the Midterm Exam under the Documents tab on the blog, or feel free to email me with your questions.

Ethics and Propaganda

One of the biggest debates surrounding the legal and ethical issues of freedom of speech regards Kansas preacher, Fred Phelps.  Documentary filmmaker, Michael Moore is an outspoken proponent of free speech -- in the following clip, he approaches Phelps' group.  However, some would argue that Moore's actions are sometimes over the line of ethical speech -- he sometimes takes speaker's comments out of context in order to prove his point. 

What do you think?  How far should our legal system go to protect our rights as speakers?  Should the government intervene against Phelps?  What about Moore? REMEMBER -- THIS IS A COMMUNICATION COUSE!!  KEEP YOUR COMMENTS RELEVANT TO OUR COURSE MATERIALS IF YOU WANT TO RECEIVE FULL CREDIT!!!

Watch this video and tell us what you think by posting a comment on this blog post (click "Comments" under the title of the post).  It's worth 5 points:

Monday classes -- due October 4th before class

Tuseday/Thursday -- due October 5th before class

Wednesday class -- due October 6th before class

The History of Free Speech

Below is a slide show on freedom of speech cases throughout history.  This post is optional and no points will be awarded.  However, you can use this information on the midterm if you so choose -- you will have the option of several essay questions, and one of them deals with freedom of speech throughout history.

NSA Code of Ethics

Today's class focused on the ethical responsibility we have as public speakers.  Ethics is not a black and white issue, though, so lots of organizations set rules for what constitutes ethical activity.  Click here to see the Code of Ethics used by the National Speakers Association.

This is an optional enrichment -- no points awarded.

Speech Week!

No blog assignments this week -- after you've given your speech in class, take the rest of the week to relax!

Remember, your self-critiques are due within one week of delivering your speech.

Is Wikipedia Really So Bad?

Wikipedia definitely gets a bad rap.  Even the popular media has spent some time and energy making fun of the user interactive website.  Still, semester after semester, I have students tell me how much they love it -- even my thesis advisor told me the other day how useful she finds the website for certain things.  Sooooo, I'm not going to tell you what I think of Wikipedia.  I want you to tell ME what YOU think of Wikipedia.

Post your comments on using Wikipedia as a research tool.  What is its place in the research process?  Does it even have a place at all?  Why does it get such a bad rap?  Do you use wikipedia?  Comments are due by class time next week.  I'll give a well-developed comment 5 points.  If you include at least one strong piece of evidence (by strong, I mean you should include a link or some other source citation), I'll give you 10 points.

The Dark Side of Audience Analysis

Audience analysis goes hand in hand with an advertising strategy called "target marketing."  As public speakers, we analyze our audience to increase our credibility. . . but what are the ethical issues?

Watch this video and post your thoughts (by clicking "comments" right below the title of this post) on the ethical issues of target marketting for 10 quiz points (due by class time next week).  Again, I expect well thought out analysis and good grammar/spelling.

(PS -- this is actually just a trailer, but you can watch the whole documentary here.)

Crowder Afternoon Class Reminder

Crowder College Students Only:

Remember -- the afternoon class will continue to begin at 2:30 rather than 2:15 for the next few weeks.  Email me with any questions you have!

Internet Detective

Because our classrooms are not equipped as computer labs, I'm sending you home to complete a tutorial on responsible use of internet research. The tutorial claims it will take about an hour. It took me less time than this, but you should reserve a good amount of time for going through this website. I'll be including info from the website on the mid-term, so I recommend that you don't just blow this off. . . Click here to begin the Internet Detective Tutorial. (You'll need to scroll down and click "Next" on the first page to begin the lesson.)

Gardner's Multiple Intelligences

Howard Gardner's theory of Multiple Intelligences is a staple for educators and speakers across the country.  We covered four of the learning styles in the Speaking to Inform PowerPoint.  This theory used to have seven intelliegences, but currently has eight intelligences (or learning styles), and it is constantly expanding as Gardner's research progresses.

You can take the test to determine your learning style here, and read more about it here.  Print the test, fill it out, and bring it in by class time next week for 5 quiz points.

Informative Topics

In just two weeks, you'll present your first informative speech.  How exciting!!  Let's start thinking topics -- remember, you need to choose a FAMOUS PERSON as the topic for your speech.

HANDS DOWN -- THE MOST COMMON REASON STUDENTS DON'T FINISH THEIR SPEECHES IS THAT THEY NEVER PICK A TOPIC!!!  This is an assignment -- you don't have to change the world -- pick a person and go with it.

You have until class time next week to list three possible informative topics (famous people).  Before you enter them into the FORM BELOW, CHECK HERE to make sure you aren't duplicating other students' topics.

Listening

Does your cultural background affect your ability to listen to others?  Check this out and "free-write" your comments by clicking "post a comment" above to receive up to 15 points (due by class time next week).  Full credit will be awarded to those who provide an insightful, well-thought out comment free from grammatical and spelling errors.

Diagnostic Speeches

We're diving right in!  Next week, everyone will need to deliver their first speech of the semester.  DON'T PANIC!  This is meant to be a (relatively) stress-free presentation about the topic you know best -- You!  It's also meant to help you see (1) how I grade speeches, (2) how speech days work, and (3) where you excel and where you need to improve when it comes to public speaking.  It is NOT meant to make or break your grade!  Here are the guidelines:

Diagnostic Speech Requirements

                Choose one of the following topics:

                     -- "My best/worst character trait is. . . "

                     -- "If I could have lunch with anyone (living or dead), I would choose. . . "

                     -- "One event that has shaped me as a person was. . . "

                     -- "My favorite memory of childhood is. . . "

                     -- "If I had a million dollars, I would. . . "

                Time Limit -- 1 - 2 minutes (wrap-up signal at 3 minutes, cut-off at 4 minutes)

                You may use note cards if you wish

                DO NOT write the speech out in advance -- it should seem spontaneous but planned

                Practice so you know how much (how little?) info you need to fill 1 - 2 minutes

You should definately check out the rubric here, so you know what I'm looking for.

Here's a sample speech to get you started:

The Classical Roots of Rhetoric

Below is an excerpt from a text on public speaking. It provides some insightful ideas on the roots of oratory. You should read through this and make sure you understand the information, as it is fair game for the midterm.

You can also take a 10-point quiz on this handout here -- due by your first class session next week.

First Day

Greetings, students, and welcome to the fall semester!  Here are two small tasks that you need to complete before we really get going in here.  The following assignments are worth 5 assignment points each and they are due by next Tuesday.  Email or come by my office if you need help!

1.  Use the printed number I gave you in class to sign up on engrade.  Use an email address you check often. If you need help getting signed up, there is a "help" tab under "Gradebook" on the blog.

2.  Subscribe to the blog and/or "like" edgarcomm on facebook. Both options are on the right side toolbar of the blog.  Use an email address you check often.  Once you've clicked through the box on the blog, you'll need to click through the confirmation email you receive in order to receive credit.

Note: Liking edgarcomm on facebook does NOT allow me to see your profile, nor does it make us "friends."  It WILL post course assignments in your newsfeed.  It WON'T send you email updates -- if you want those, you should subscribe instead.

Final Grades (Evening)

Students,

I've posted the final exam grades and final course letter grades on Engrade.  Though grades aren't negotiable, I am happy to answer any questions you may have about the outcome of the course.  Please feel free to email me.  I plan to enter the grades into Crowder's database late tomorrow evening.

PLEASE NOTE -- Engrade will be down on Saturday and Sunday (bad timing, I know), so if you want to have access to your grade over the weekend, you should PRINT your grade on Friday.

It's been a good semester -- It's been great getting to know each of you, and I have certainly enjoyed your willingness to participate in class discussions.  I believe it really did make the class much more interesting and enjoyable!  Please don't hesitate to let me know if you need anything in the future.

If you received this in an email -- don't forget to unsubscribe -- there is a small link at the bottom of the email.

Have a great summer!
Amanda

Final Exam Information

The final exam is quickly approaching. The info on the final is from class discussions, PowerPoints, and blog posts, as well as the short section of your text on the Elaboration Likelihood Model that I assigned you during the Persuasion chapter.

The final exam will be slightly different from the midterm exam, in that it will be divided into two distinct parts: a scantron section and a take-home section.

The scantron section will include 40 multiple choice questions and 5 matching questions. You will need to bring a number two pencil. University of Arkansas students also need to bring one of the skinny scantron forms (you can purchase these at Club Red or a number of other on-campus stores).

The take-home portion of the exam will include questions similar to the essay portion of the midterm -- download the questions here. This portion is expected to be typed and formatted according to MLA or APA guidelines and free from grammar and spelling errors. You'll need to bring your printed answers with you to the exam: I WILL NOT accept late submissions, and you WILL NOT be allowed to leave the final to print your paper.

Persuasive 2 Topics (Evening)

As you continue to work on your Persuasive 2 speeches, let's see what the rest of the class is working on.  Enter your topic (or topics if you're still deciding) into the form below.  The results can be viewed here.

Death by PowerPoint (Evening)

The semester is quickly coming to a close.  Here's one last chance to earn some quiz points through blog enrichment (remember -- you can still do the 2nd Persuasive Speech self-critique, as well).  Below is a presentation created by the "Corporation for a Skilled Workforce" on how to prevent what they call "Death by PowerPoint."  Watch this presentation (you can turn off the sound if the song is annoying to you) and fill out this quiz to receive up to 5 points.  This is due on Tuesday, July 27th by class time.

Increasing the Odds of Persuading Your Audience (Evening)

Although we finished discussing persuasive strategies last week, you should still be thinking about how they will affect your next speech.  Below is a checklist for the ways you can increase your chances of persuading your audience.  Enjoy!

Persuasive Critiques (Evening)

Congratulations on some good speeches tonight!  Now that you're all starting to feel a little more comfortable in front of an audience, I'd like to encourage you to start thinking critically as audience members.  I posed some questions to you on yesterday's blog post -- and I hope you listened for these traits in your classmates' speeches. 

For 5 quiz points, choose one of those speeches and analyze it using two of those questions (printed on the form).  The form is located here -- this is due by July 22nd at 10:00pm.

Preparing to be Persuaded (Evening)

Thursday, you'll be presenting your first persuasive speech.  You'll also be watching the persuasive speeches presented by your classmates.  I'll be putting up a blog post tomorrow that will allow you to identify the persuasive techniques employed by the other speakers in your class (worth 5 quiz points).  In order to be able to complete the assignment, you will need to be critically analyzing your classmates' speeches.  Think about the following questions as you listen/watch:

1. Where do they employ persuasive techniques?
2. Did they adapt to their anticipated audience receptivity?
3. Were you persuaded?
4. Did they use logos/pathos/ethos, Maslow's hierarchy, etc. 

You may want to take notes during and between others' speeches so that you are equipped to answer these questions on tomorrow's blog activity.

Adapting to Your Audience (Evening)

We have talked about audience analysis several times in the past, but this concept is particularly important when we are attempting to persuade our audience.  The handout below gives specific ways you can adapt your topic to your audience's anticipated reaction.

You can also take a 10-point quiz on this handout here.  Since these techniques should be used on your persuasive speeches, you DO NOT have a full week to complete this assignment.  It needs to be completed before Persuasive Speech 1 day -- before class on July 15th.

Toulmin Model (Evening)

Today we discussed the Toulmin Model of argumentation.  However, we were only able to briefly skim the surface of this cornerstone persuasive theory.  The fine folks at University of Nebraska Lincoln Department of Communication Studies have created a comprehensive tutorial of this concept -- available for you to explore.  You can complete the four steps of the tutorial here, and if you complete the assessment page with at least 80% accuracy, I'll give you 10 quiz points.  You'll need to PRINT the assessment page before you click Submit, and bring it in by July 20th by class time.

Free Shipping from Amazon for Students!

Normally I don't post things that aren't directly related to class work, but this seemed worth posting (especially since I shop Amazon a TON for books and media).

Right now, you can enroll in Amazon Prime as a student for free (it's a program they have that gives you free shipping) -- the free subscription lasts a year, and it would normally cost $79.  I did this a second ago, and it went through fine -- I just had to put in my .edu email address, they sent me an email with a validation link, and now I have Amazon Prime.  Awesome!

Click here to sign up!

Stranger Danger (Evening)

Though there are many persuasive personalities in our popular culture, many of them do not employ solid reasoning.  One group who I have found to use solid evidence is the magic and comic duo, Penn and Teller.  They have a series called "Bullsh!t," in which they discuss current issues in a comical, but persuasive manner. 

Watch the episode called, "Stranger Danger" (links below) and complete this quiz to receive up to 15 points.  This assignment is due July 15th by 10:00pm.

When you follow the link, you will see a notice that the video has been taken down.  Wait just a few more seconds, and it should load just fine.
Stranger Danger -- Part 1
Stranger Danger -- Part 2
Stranger Danger -- Part 3

Persuasive 1 Topics (Evening)

You know the drill -- enter your name and up to three topics you are considering for your 1st Persuasive.  If you've already chosen a topic, you should only enter THAT ONE TOPIC.  That way, we know if a topic is already on the table, which will help others avoid duplicating.  Before you enter your topics, be sure to see what others have entered here.

Outline Template (Evening)

I've embedded the link for the "Outline Template" in the Outlining PowerPoint.  For easy reference, HERE it is again.  It might be worth bookmarking. . . ?

Introductions, etc. (Evening)

Today we talked about introductions and conclusions. I've also shown you some examples of speeches from my classes. However, there are lots of other speeches on the internet -- some follow our format, and some don't. To receive 15 quiz points (all or nothing), find a speech online that meets the following guidelines:

1. The speech must include and introduction.
2. The introduction must include at least 2 of the 3 parts of a good introduction (as covered in class).

To get the points follow these directions:

1. Once you find the speech, copy the address (URL) from your browser's address bar.
2. Create a new comment by clicking "Comments" under the title of this post.
3. Paste the URL into the comment box.
4. List the 3 parts of a good introduction, and list whether or not the speaker has included each.
5. Tell us (in a sentence or two) what you think of the introduction -- is it good or bad?
6. Does the speech include transitions? What is the conclusion like? Is this speech a good example?

This assignment is due by July 8th at 10:00 PM.

Final Grades (Morning)

Morning Students,

I've entered your final grades into engrade, and tomorrow I'll be putting those grades into the Crowder system.  If you have questions or concerns, now is your last chance to communicate.  Most did very well on the final, and I was also pleased with the last speeches.

It was a pleasure having ALL of you in class.  It is rare that a class is made up entirely of students whose personalities I sincerely enjoy -- I can honestly say that I like every one of you!  Please don't hestitate to email if you need anything in the future (letters of rec, etc.).  Have a great summer!

P.S. If you're receiving this in an email, be sure to "Unsubscribe".  There should be a small link at the bottom of the page that says "Unsubscribe now" -- click it, so you don't have to keep hearing from me until the end of time!

The Internet Detective (Evening)

Because our classrooms are not equipped as computer labs, I'm sending you home early to complete a tutorial on responsible use of internet research. The tutorial claims it will take about an hour. It took me less time than this, but you should reserve a good amount of time for going through this website. I'll be including info from the website on the mid-term, so I recommend that you don't just blow this off. . . Click here to begin the Internet Detective Tutorial. (You'll need to scroll down and click "Next" on the first page to begin the lesson.)

Is Wikipedia Really So Bad. . . ? (Evening)

Wikipedia definitely gets a bad rap.  Even the popular media has spent some time and energy making fun of the user interactive website.  Still, semester after semester, I have students tell me how much they love it -- even my thesis advisor told me the other day how useful she finds the website for certain things.  Sooooo, I'm not going to tell you what I think of Wikipedia.  I want you to tell ME what YOU think of Wikipedia.

Post your comments on using Wikipedia as a research tool.  What is its place in the research process?  Does it even have a place at all?  Why does it get such a bad rap?  Do you use wikipedia.  Comments are due by July 6th by class time.  I'll give a well-developed comment 5 points.  If you include at least one strong piece of evidence (by strong, I mean you should include a link or some other source citation), I'll give you 10 points.

Mid-Term

The mid-term is coming up, so I wanted to give you some guidelines for what you can expect. The content of the exam is primarily made up of information contained on the PowerPoints (as well as things we discussed in class that are NOT spelled out on the PowerPoint).

I also pulled some information from the Internet Detective blog post that I assigned last week, the Delivery PowerPoint and Audience Analysis stuff you were assigned over our snow days, and the Multiple Intelligences blog post (though this last one is an optional question).

Question types are as follows:

30 Multiple Choice Questions (1 point each)
1 Required Diagram/Sketch (15 points)
Choice of 3 Short Answer -- paragraph long (10 points each)
Choice of 1 Essay (25 points)

You will need to bring:

No. 2 Pencil
Pen (optional for writing section)
Skinny Green Scantron Form
Blue Book

Final Exam Information (Morning)

On Thursday, you'll take the final exam which will be very similar to the mid-term. Like the mid-term, the info on the final is from class discussions, PowerPoints, and blog posts, as well as the short section of your text on the Elaboration Likelihood Model that I assigned you during the Persuasion chapter.


Question types are as follows:

30 Multiple Choice Questions (2 points each)
5 Matching (2 points each)
10 Word or Phrase (3 points each)
Choice of 4 Short Answer (5 points each)
Choice of 2 Essays (15 points)

You will need to bring:

Pens or Pencils (up to you)
Several sheets of lined paper

Once everyone has finished with the exam (I'll allow a maximum of two hours to complete the exam), we'll move on to make-up speeches.  You can expect grades to be posted on engrade by 4:00.  Push through -- we're almost done!!

Persuasive 2 Topics (Morning)

As you continue to work on your Persuasive 2 speeches, let's see what the rest of the class is working on.  Enter you topic (or topics if you're still deciding) into the form below.  The results can be viewed here.

Death by PowerPoint (Morning)

The semester is quickly coming to a close.  Here's one last chance to earn some quiz points through blog enrichment (remember -- you can still do the 2nd Persuasive Speech self-critique, as well).  Below is a presentation created by the "Corporation for a Skilled Workforce" on how to prevent what they call "Death by PowerPoint."  Watch this presentation (you can turn off the sound if the song is annoying to you) and fill out this quiz to receive up to 5 points.  This is due on Wednesday, June 30 by class time.

Increasing the Odds of Persuading Your Audience (Morning)

Although we finished discussing persuasive strategies last week, you should still be thinking about how they will affect your next speech.  Below is a checklist for the ways you can increase your chances of persuading your audience.  Enjoy!

The History of Free Speech (Evening)

Ethics and Propaganda (Evening)

One of the biggest debates surrounding the legal and ethical issues of freedom of speech regards Kansas preacher, Fred Phelps.  Documentary filmmaker, Michael Moore is an outspoken proponent of free speech -- in the following clip, he approaches Phelps' group.  However, some would argue that Moore's actions are sometimes over the line of ethical speech -- he sometimes takes speaker's comments out of context in order to prove his point. 

What do you think?  How far should our legal system go to protect our rights as speakers?  Should the government intervene against Phelps?  What about Moore?

Watch this video and tell us what you think by posting a comment on this blog post (click "Comments" under the title of the post).  It's worth 5 points before class time on July 1st.

NSA Code of Ethics (Evening)

Today's class focused on the ethical responsibility we have as public speakers.  Ethics is not a black and white issue, though, so lots of organizations set rules for what constitutes ethical activity.  Click here to see the Code of Ethics used by the National Speakers Association.

Persuasive Critiques (Morning)

Congratulations on some good speeches today!  Now that you're all starting to feel a little more comfortable in front of an audience, I'd like to encourage you to start thinking critically as audience members.  I posed some questions to you on yesterday's blog post -- and I hope you listened for these traits in your classmates' speeches. 

For 5 quiz points, choose one of those speeches and analyze it using two of those questions (printed on the form).  The form is located here -- this is due by June 29th at 10:00pm.

Toulmin Model (Morning)

Today we discussed the Toulmin Model of argumentation.  However, we were only able to briefly skim the surface of this cornerstone persuasive theory.  The fine folks at University of Nebraska Lincoln Department of Communication Studies have created a comprehensive tutorial of this concept -- available for you to explore.  You can complete the four steps of the tutorial here, and if you complete the assessment page with at least 80% accuracy, I'll give you 10 quiz points.  You'll need to PRINT the assessment page before you click Submit, and bring it in by June 29th by class time.

Preparing to be Persuaded (Morning)

Tomorrow, you'll be presenting your first persuasive speech.  You'll also be watching the persuasive speeches presented by your classmates.  I'll be putting up a blog post tomorrow that will allow you to identify the persuasive techniques employed by the other speakers in your class (worth 5 quiz points).  In order to be able to complete the assignment, you will need to be critically analyzing your classmates' speeches.  Think about the following questions as you listen/watch:

1. Where do they employ persuasive techniques?
2. Did they adapt to their anticipated audience receptivity?
3. Were you persuaded?
4. Did they use logos/pathos/ethos, Maslow's hierarchy, etc. 

You may want to take notes during and between others' speeches so that you are equipped to answer these questions on tomorrow's blog activity.

Stranger Danger (Morning)

Though there are many persuasive personalities in our popular culture, many of them do not employ solid reasoning.  One group who I have found to use solid evidence is the magic and comic duo, Penn and Teller.  They have a series called "Bullsh!t," in which they discuss current issues in a comical, but persuasive manner. 

Watch the episode called, "Stranger Danger" (links below) and complete this quiz to receive up to 15 points.  This assignment is due June 29th by 10:00pm.

When you follow the link, you will see a notice that the video has been taken down.  Wait just a few more seconds, and it should load just fine.
Stranger Danger -- Part 1
Stranger Danger -- Part 2
Stranger Danger -- Part 3

Adapting to Your Audience (Morning)

We have talked about audience analysis several times in the past, but this concept is particularly important when we are attempting to persuade our audience.  The handout below gives specific ways you can adapt your topic to your audience's anticipated reaction.

You can also take a 10-point quiz on this handout here.  Since these techniques should be used on your persuasive speeches, you DO NOT have a full week to complete this assignment.  It needs to be completed before Persuasive Speech 1 day -- before class on June 24th.

Persuasive 1 Topics (Morning)

You know the drill -- enter your name and up to three topics you are considering for your 1st Persuasive.  If you've already chosen a topic, you should only enter THAT ONE TOPIC.  That way, we know if a topic is already on the table, which will help others avoid duplicating.  Before you enter your topics, be sure to see what others have entered here.

Outline Template (Morning)

I've embedded the link for the "Outline Template" in the Outlining PowerPoint.  For easy reference, HERE it is again.  It might be worth bookmarking. . . ?

Quiz Points Update (Morning)

I spent the afternoon entering grades for assignments, so I wanted to let you know where we stand with quiz points. 

-- I have entered all of the grades for quiz points submitted so far.  There were a few submissions that were late (therefore not accepted).  However, if you did not receive points for something that you did, please let me know so we can figure it out. 

-- About half of you in the morning class have less than 50 quiz points accumulated.  Remember, you have to have 100 by the end of the class.  We are exactly half way through the course right now -- and over 100 quiz points have already been made available.  There aren't an infinite number of points available. . . so some of you need to step on it!

When it comes to grades, the biggest piece of advice I can offer is COMMUNICATE!  If I don't know something is wrong, I can't help you.  Grades aren't negotiable, but I do want to work with you, and if something is going on, you need to tell me so that we can figure out a solution.

Speeches Tuesday (Evening)

Evening Class -- Remember, you have speeches on Tuesday night!  Don't put your preparation off!!!  You want to make sure you are finished gathering information in plenty of time to rehearse your speech!!

Check out the Documents tab for more info on speech requirements and rubric.

Trouble in Topic-Land? (Evening)

Our first "big" speech is fast approaching. . . have you chosen a topic yet? 

If not -- remember my first piece of advice -- this is just another assignment!  Don't feel like you have to have an earth shattering topic (or even the "best" topic in the class). 

Here's a worksheet to help generate ideas.  You might also want to check out StumbleUpon -- it will take you to random websites within the interest areas that you put in to its interest form (warning -- some people get SUPER addicted to this, and it becomes a mega-time-waster).

If all else fails, use one of the topics you listed when you had to put in three possible topics.  Even if you don't love your topic, it's better than postponing to make-up day and getting a point deduction, right??

The Dark Side of Audience Analysis (Evening)

Audience analysis goes hand in hand with an advertising strategy called "target marketing."  As public speakers, we analyze our audience to increase our credibility. . . but what are the ethical issues?

Watch this video and post your thoughts (by clicking "comments" right below the title of this post) on the ethical issues of target marketting for 10 quiz points (due June 24th by 10:00pm).  (PS -- this is actually just a trailer, but you can watch the whole documentary here.)

Commenting on Posts (Morning and Evening)

It was brought to my attention that some students were having difficulty posting comments on blog posts.  I've changed some settings on the blog in general, so posting will now be much, much easier.  You no longer need a google account, and you won't be asked to enter any squiggly letters.  So if this was tripping you up in the past, give it another try!  :)

Introductions, etc. (Morning)

Today we talked about introductions and conclusions. I've also shown you some examples of speeches from my classes. However, there are lots of other speeches on the internet -- some follow our format, and some don't. To receive 15 quiz points (all or nothing), find a speech online that meets the following guidelines:

1. The speech must include and introduction.
2. The introduction must include at least 2 of the 3 parts of a good introduction (as covered in class).

To get the points follow these directions:

1. Once you find the speech, copy the address (URL) from your browser's address bar.
2. Paste the URL into the box below.
3. List the 3 parts of a good introduction, and list whether or not the speaker has included each.
4. Tell us (in a sentence or two) what you think of the introduction -- is it good or bad?
5. Does the speech include transitions? What is the conclusion like? Is this speech a good example?
6. After you click "Submit," go here to see your classmates' responses.

This assignment is due by June 24th at 10:00 PM.

Internet Detective (Morning)

Because our classrooms are not equipped as computer labs, I'm sending you home early to complete a tutorial on responsible use of internet research. The tutorial claims it will take about an hour. It took me less time than this, but you should reserve a good amount of time for going through this website. I'll be including info from the website on the mid-term, so I recommend that you don't just blow this off. . . Click here to begin the Internet Detective Tutorial. (You'll need to scroll down and click "Next" on the first page to begin the lesson.)

Is Wikipedia Really So Bad. . . ? (Morning)

Wikipedia definitely gets a bad rap.  Even the popular media has spent some time and energy making fun of the user interactive website.  Still, semester after semester, I have students tell me how much they love it -- even my thesis advisor told me the other day how useful she finds the website for certain things.  Sooooo, I'm not going to tell you what I think of Wikipedia.  I want you to tell ME what YOU think of Wikipedia.

Post your comments on using Wikipedia as a research tool.  What is its place in the research process?  Does it even have a place at all?  Why does it get such a bad rap?  Do you use wikipedia.  Comments are due by June 23rd by class time.  I'll give a well-developed comment 5 points.  If you include at least one strong piece of evidence (by strong, I mean you should include a link or some other source citation), I'll give you 10 points.

Mid-Term (Morning)

On Monday morning, you'll take the mid-term, so I wanted to give you some guidelines for what you can expect.  The content of the exam is limited to the information contained on the PowerPoints (as well as things we discussed in class that are NOT spelled out on the PowerPoint).  I also pulled some information from blog posts and areas of the text that I verbally assigned to you to understand. 

Question types are as follows:

25 Multiple Choice Questions (1 point each)
10 Word or Phrase (2 points each)
1 Required Short Answer (15 points)
Choice of 5 Additional Short Answer (5 points each)
Choice of 1 Essay (15 points)

You will need to bring:

Pens or Pencils (up to you)
Several sheets of lined paper

After the mid-term I'll give a pretty short lecture -- we'll cover outlining, so you should make sure to bring your notebook (or whatever you're using to take notes).

Clarification (Evening)

I wanted to clarify a couple of things:

1. Regarding the first informative speech -- a student has asked me about using a visual aid. To clarify -- you should not plan to use a visual aid. You won't learn the correct ways to use visual aids until just before the final speech, so I'll only have you do a visual aid for the last persuasive. So no visual aids on this first speech.

2. I don't have a smart phone, but after realizing that some of you have been using the blog via smart phone, I used my husband's to check it out. Now I see why you were asking about the PowerPoints being posted! There are a few elements of the blog that appear in "iframes". The iframe content (syllabus, documents, and PowerPoints) WON'T show up on your smart phone, so to access that information you'll need to use an actual computer. I'll try to get a link added for alternate content, so that those pages won't just show up blank for you, but I did want to let you know what was going on.

As always, drop me a line if you've got questions about anything!

Informative Topics (Evening)

Evening Class,

Next week, you'll present your informative speech.  How exciting!!  Let's start thinking topics -- remember, you need to choose a FAMOUS PERSON as the topic for your speech.

HANDS DOWN -- THE MOST COMMON REASON STUDENTS DON'T FINISH THEIR SPEECHES IS THAT THEY NEVER PICK A TOPIC!!!  This is an assignment -- you don't have to change the world -- pick a person and go with it.

You have until class time on Thursday to list three possible informative topics (famous people).  Before you enter them into the form below, CHECK HERE to make sure you aren't duplicating other students' topics.

Gardner's Multiple Intelligences (Evening)

Howard Gardner's theory of Multiple Intelligences is a staple for educators and speakers across the country.  We covered four of the learning styles in the Speaking to Inform PowerPoint.  This theory used to have seven intelliegences, but currently has eight intelligences (or learning styles), and it is constantly expanding as Gardner's research progresses.

You can take the test to determine your learning style here, and read more about it here.  Print the test, fill it out, and bring it in by June 22nd for 5 quiz points.

The History of Free Speech (Morning)

Ethics and Propaganda (Morning)

One of the biggest debates surrounding the legal and ethical issues of freedom of speech regards Kansas preacher, Fred Phelps.  Documentary filmmaker, Michael Moore is an outspoken proponent of free speech -- in the following clip, he approaches Phelps' group.  However, some would argue that Moore's actions are sometimes over the line of ethical speech -- he sometimes takes speaker's comments out of context in order to prove his point. 

What do you think?  How far should our legal system go to protect our rights as speakers?  Should the government intervene against Phelps?  What about Moore?

Watch this video and tell us what you think by posting a comment on this blog post (click "Comments" under the title of the post).  It's worth 5 points before class time on June 22nd.

NSA Code of Ethics (Morning)

Today's class focused on the ethical responsibility we have as public speakers.  Ethics is not a black and white issue, though, so lots of organizations set rules for what constitutes ethical activity.  Click here to see the Code of Ethics used by the National Speakers Association.

Speeches Monday (Morning)

Morning Class -- Remember, you have speeches on Monday morning!  Don't put your preparation off!!!  You want to make sure you are finished gathering information in plenty of time to rehearse your speech!!

Check out the Documents tab for more info on speech requirements and rubric.

Rules for Listening (Evening)

This is NOT OPTIONAL!  You need to go through this Slide Show and READ AND UNDERSTAND the rules for speech day.

Listening (Evening)

Does your cultural background affect your ability to listen to others?  Check this out and "free-write" your comments here to receive up to 15 points (due June 17th by 10:00pm).

Trouble in Topic-Land? (Morning)

Our first "big" speech is fast approaching. . . have you chosen a topic yet? 

If not -- remember my first piece of advice -- this is just another assignment!  Don't feel like you have to have an earth shattering topic (or even the "best" topic in the class). 

Here's a worksheet to help generate ideas.  You might also want to check out StumbleUpon -- it will take you to random websites within the interest areas that you put in to its interest form (warning -- some people get SUPER addicted to this, and it becomes a mega-time-waster).

If all else fails, use one of the topics you listed when you had to put in three possible topics.  Even if you don't love your topic, it's better than postponing to make-up day and getting a point deduction, right??

The Dark Side of Audience Analysis (Morning)

Audience analysis goes hand in hand with an advertising strategy called "target marketing."  As public speakers, we analyze our audience to increase our credibility. . . but what are the ethical issues?

Watch this video and post your thoughts (by clicking "comments" right below the title of this post) on the ethical issues of target marketting for 10 quiz points (due June 17th at 10:00pm).  (PS -- this is actually just a trailer, but you can watch the whole documentary here.)

Grades are in!

Crowder Students,

Grades are up on Engrade and MyCrowder.  I didn't see many surprises, but if you have questions, feel free to email me!

Also, if you received this in an email, be sure to Unsubscribe -- there will be a link at the bottom of the email.  Click it, and you're good to go.

Enjoyed having you in class -- enjoy your summer!
Amanda

Debates TONIGHT!!!

Don't forget to print off the debate cheat sheet!  The post on the debate unit is here.  You may also want to check out the grading rubric I'll be using.

It's not a bad idea to bring some sort of time piece -- a watch, cell phone, cooking timer.  Though I'll be giving you hand signals to show how long you've spoken during the debates, you will be responsible for keeping time yourself during the 10 minute prep time.  Whatever you do, BRING THE DEBATE CHEAT SHEET!!!

Don't Forget to Unsubscribe!

U of A Students,

If you are receiving this in an email, consider it a reminder to unsubscribe.  There should be a small link at the bottom of the email that says something like "Unsubscribe now."  You'll want to click that and follow the directions if you don't want to keep hearing from me until the end of time!  :)

I can't say enough how much I've enjoyed working with you all this semester.  Thank you for a great class!  Please let me know if there's anything I can do for you in the future -- I'm always happy to write letters of recommendation or point you in the direction of good COMM classes, etc.  Best wishes to you all in the future!

Amanda

Interesting Article

This is a really interesting take on current rhetorical issues.  If you get bored reading it, skip down to the last two paragraphs.  The middle does get a little long, but the ending is money.

"Imagine if the Tea Party was Black" by Tim Wise

U of A Semester End Update

Our semester is (rapidly) coming to an end!  While most of us are really excited to get to summer break, there is still work to be done before we get there!  Here's a schedule for our last two days together!  :)  Read it, please -- there's an assignment due on Wednesday and some quiz points available!

Monday
--Section 18 (1:30 class) will continue with make-up speeches as needed.  I'll go ahead and say this class is optional -- no need to excuse yourself if you don't have a speech to give.
--Section 21 (2:30 class) will NOT meet.  However, I'll be around, so if you want to chat about your paper, exam, grade, etc., please come by my office (Kimple 432).  If you've never been there, just head down the hall from our classroom (go towards the elevator) and take a left at the end of the hall.  It's the 4th door on the left.

Wednesday
--Both sections will meet.  You need to come to this class (our last meeting) with a topic for your final paper.  Even if you haven't started writing/reading/researching/etc., I want you to know what you're thinking you'd like to do.  Fair warning -- I'm going to ask you what you're planning to write about, so you need to have at least a broad idea.

Quiz Points
If you're still needing quiz points, you can do the follow-up to the PRPSA for 5 points.  Remember to fill out the form, click "Submit My Data," then type in my email address (aedgar@uark.edu) and your own email and click send.  If you don't do this step, you won't get credit, so make sure you follow the directions!!

Cool Blog Post

One of my favorite blogs, Apartment Therapy, posted a really interesting media-related story on their sister site, OhDeeDoh tonight.  This is pretty thought provoking if you're interested in mass communication, but I also wanted to re-post it because I think it could make an interesting final paper.  Check out their post on media fasting here.

Mass Comm (Link for Crowder Students)

Crowder, since we are just now getting to Mass Communication, I wanted to link you directly to that post.  Go here to see what I said when we covered that at U of A.  No new material, I just wanted to save you from scanning through all of the posts to get there!

Also, remember we will also cover the nonverbal chapter tonight, which is here.

New PowerPoint Link

I know some of you are wanting to get a head start on studying and reviewing for the final exam, so I've added a new tool that should help make this a little easier.  Near the header of the blog, there is a link that you can click to filter out all of the posts that don't contain PowerPoints.  This should let you go straight to the areas you need for studying.  Please let me know if you have any questions!

Debate

The PowerPoint for the Debate unit is here.

When it comes time to present the debates, I allow and encourage you to bring this cheat sheet with you to use as a guide. You should print it and bring it with you so that you have a reference point for the organizational structure of the speeches. It also gives you the wording for some key phrases that you may need to use, so that you'll have one less thing to prep. You are welcome to bring your own timer if you are worried about meeting the time guidelines, but I will also be giving you hand signals so that you know how long you have been speaking.

The rubric is posted under the "Documents of Interest" column, but you can also download it here.  You will notice that it is pretty wide open -- I am primarily looking for you to put in effort, demonstrate the skills you have gained as a public speaker (even if you don't feel like you have a TON, show me that you have improved), and to make a well-structured argument for your side of the case.

Nonverbal Communication

You can view the Nonveral Communication PowerPoint here.  I've also put the infamous Letterman interview with Joaquin Phoenix below (since it won't work at the end of the PowerPoint).  It is a fascinating study in nonverbal communication, and I would be open to someone using it as a paper topic.  Shoot me an email if you're interested in doing that.  Otherwise, enjoy!

Final Paper Sample

You can download an example of an "A" paper from last semester here. 

This is not meant to be a template -- it's just an idea of the depth of analysis I am expecting.  Notice that this student also incorporated extra research materials -- you should do this, too!  Also, at this time, I only required 2 - 3 pages.  Your page limit is larger, so you should include more depth to your argument. This student could have easily added to the paragraphs in the first page.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Final Exam Guidelines

The final exam is coming up quickly!  As you know, I don't provide study guides for exams, but below is an outline of what you can expect to see on the test.


First of all, the exam covers all of the PowerPoints since the mid-term (the mid-term ended with Cultural Communication).

The following question types are represented on the exam:
10 Multiple Choice (worth 1 point each)
5 Matching (worth 2 points each)
5 Short Answer -- 1 or 2 sentences (worth 2 points each)
Choice of 2 Essay -- thorough paragraph (worth 10 points each)

You will need a few sheets of lined notebook paper to answer the short answer and essay questions.


Remember, the exam portion of the final is worth 50 points; the paper is worth 75. Use your time wisely -- I am expecting a well-written, college-level paper. There should be NO errors of spelling and grammar, and the paper's thesis should be based on your thoughtful analysis.

Final Exam Schedule (U of A)

U of A students only:

By popular request, I'm linking you all to the Final Exam Schedule.  It's not good news for those of you who don't consider yourselves early birds!

The 1:30 class will take their final on Tuesday, May 4th at 7:30am.

The 2:30 class will take their final on Wednesday, May 5th at 7:30am.

You need to set your alarms and maybe even arrange to call each other -- if you miss the exam, there isn't much I can do. . . the grades are due within 24 hours (departmental rules) and I won't be on campus after the scheduled exam times.

Also, please remember these dates are the due dates for your final papers.  I won't be accepting ANY late papers, as I need time to grade them -- and 24 hours is already a pretty tight deadline.  You can bring them to me early if you want (if you're worried you'll forget), but I'm not going to do the "email it to me by noon" thing this time.  The paper guidelines are here.

Small Group Communication

You can download the PowerPoint for Small Group Communication here.

Remember to double check the due date for Persuasive 2, and be ready to speak when speech week starts.  I have heard from a few students regarding possible topics -- keep them coming!!  The rubric and self-critique form for the Persuasive 2 are posted in the usual spot.

Persuasive Speech 2

Persuasive 2 is fast approaching -- below are the requirements.  Notice that most elements are the same as your first Persuasive Speech.  I'll bold the additional requirements for this speech.  Don't forget to review the Visual Aid PowerPoint to make sure you are following my rules -- especially if you plan to use a PowerPoint.

Persuasive Speech #2

Time limit – 4 - 6 minutes

Extemporaneous Style – up to 3 notecards

Visual Aid Required – Any of the types discussed in the PowerPoint on VA’s are acceptable

Must follow rules of good VA’s

Problem – Cause – Solution Organizational Structure

Must use at least 3 verbal citations

Reference pages REQUIRED!!!