University of Pittsburgh Johnstown

COMMRC 0052

ESL Public Speaking

Spring 2018

COURSE SYLLABUS

I. GENERAL COURSE INFORMATION A. Dr. Brian P. Burke

B. Class Times: Tues-Thurs – 8 am – 9:20 am @ Biddle 208

C. Professor’s Office location – 230E Biddle

D. Office hours – Tuesday/Thursday – 9:30 am -12:15 pm

E. E-mail address – bpb31@pitt.edu & doc55smiley@gmail.com

F. Preferred means of course communication - EMAIL

G. Office phone number – 814 269 7279

Course Description: This course is designed to enhance students’ speech skills as effective

performers and audience members of a diverse society. Therefore, a wide variety of readings,

assignments, and class work will center on the development and application of skills necessary to

speak and listen with a heightened awareness of audience adaptation. Theoretical concepts as

they apply to actual speech performances will be the main emphasis in this course.

Course Objectives: Upon completion of this course, students should be able:

1. To think critically about topics that relate to societal issues concerning ethnicity, race,

identity, gender, and culture.

2. To select public speaking topics that reflect ideas and concepts important not only to

themselves but to the listening audience.

3. To research critically speech materials through the active use of the library, Internet,

personal interviews, newspapers, magazines, TV broadcasts/documentaries, etc.

4. To analyze the audience throughout the preparation and delivery process in an effort to

appreciate and adapt to differences in listening, thinking, perceiving, or learning due to

physical, psychological, cultural, racial, gender-related, and/or socio-economic needs.

5. To organize ideas and supporting materials in a manner considerate of the audience’s

individual listening needs.

6. To prepare a variety of public speeches which are distinguishable in form,

content, and presentation technique.

7. To listen critically yet non-judgmentally during speech performances in an effort to

understand the information, identify the purpose, and demand substantial data and

arguments in support of all assertions.

8. To develop voice and body language skills for the effective delivery of a speech in order that

all audience members might accurately hear and see the message as it was intended with full

consideration of the diverse backgrounds and special needs of all who are present.

9. To defend ideas, beliefs, and values throughout the speech performance and listening

process in an effort to demand considerate, open-minded, critically analyzed,

legitimately supported, and logically argued materials throughout the entire preparation,

delivery and observation of speeches.

Burke COMMRC 0052, Spring 2018 2

10. To incorporate the principles of diversity throughout the entire speech process.

Course Materials Required Text (Please bring to class daily!)

Lucas, Stephen E. The Art of Public Speaking. 12th Edition. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2015.

This text has been around for a long time and has been recently updated to include exciting

electronic access to pre- and post-testing, videos, interactive venues, and much, much more.

Your richest speaking learning experience would be achieved if you purchase the newest text and

the “Connect” access. You may also order an electronic version of the text.

The following is the general ISBN number(s) available at Amazon.com:

ISBN-13: 978-0073523910 ISBN-10: 0073523917

For all versions that might be options to you at the McGraw Hill Website, go to the following

link: http://shop.mheducation.com/highered/product.M0073523917.html

Each version comes with its own benefit and its own price tag.

Since text book pricing is so high these days and since the fundamental aspect of this text is in

fact the same throughout all its editions, I am allowing you to use any of the earlier editions for

class purposes so long as you realize that you may be on a different page than I am in class, you

may miss some materials that are on the exams, or you may not gain the full experience this

excellent, updated text offers. The “costs” need to be weighed with the “benefits” of having the

most recent text. I will let the informed decision up to you.

I will not require online tests nor will I require any of the online access materials associated with

the textbook itself. I do, however, believe the text’s online materials are excellent supplements

to class work as well as excellent points of access for finding speech topics, materials, ideas,

examples, and support. However, each student learns differently with different budgetary

limitations and priorities. Therefore, this is the first of many choices I will offer you throughout

this semester!

Please note that the bookstore has the text in ring binder form (as a lower cost version). You will

not have Connect Access with this version.

Again, you can go to McGraw-Hill at

http://catalogs.mhhe.com/mhhe/viewProductList.do?cnt=16&catid=315 or go to Amazon at

www.amazon.com. The newest version looks like this:

Burke COMMRC 0052, Spring 2018 3

BlackBoard Access:

All course materials will be located on BlackBoard for this course. Go to

http://courseweb.pitt.edu/ and follow the instructions for Public Speaking 0052 listed under your

name. Problems accessing this material should be brought to the attention of the instructor as

well as the assistants in the computer labs located throughout the university. Likewise,

sometimes problems arise doing research off campus. A helpful link for offsite access is

https://sslvpn.pitt.edu. Again, students should inform the instructor of any problems in order that

she can be aware and can help resolve the problem.

Notices, class cancellations, student messages, supplemental handouts, WEB links, citation

information, supplemental readings, pre-tests, and many other such learning tools will be

available throughout the term. Likewise, students are also expected to utilize the site as a method

to respond to classroom discussions especially when time does not permit lengthy oral responses

or even when a student feels more comfortable with expressing the ideas in writing. Please note

that similar to the reserved materials in the library, this tool will only be as useful as the student

makes it. At the same time, there will be some required responses for ALL students throughout

the term to assure that everyone has a “voice” and has familiarity with this tool.

Finally, those students who locate additional materials are encouraged to share them with the

instructor who will place them on BlackBoard if they viewed as appropriate for student learning.

Such items as YouTube clips, famous speeches, newspaper articles, websites, academic journal

articles, conference papers, and books are encouraged to be shared. Remember, this is a

cooperative learning environment. A student resource and is only as beneficial as the number of

students who utilize it and contribute to it. Students needing additional resources or help should

contact the instructor by email, by phone, or in person and she will make every attempt to locate

additional materials for your use.

Video Taping of Speeches Videotaping is permissible for all students for every speech. The Communication Department

owns a camera that may be used in the classroom for any speech that the student would like

recorded. Unfortunately to obtain a personal copy, students, will need to provide their own

SDHC 4GB to 16GB Memory Card.

Another option is for students to use their own recording devices such as a camera, ipad, or smart

phone. A new system for recording and uploading of practice speeches will be available this

semester through the online tutorial services. Students will be able to record and upload their

own practice speeches using personal devices. Additional information is noted below under

“tutorial services.”

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General Course Requirements

Overview of Course Requirements (totaling 100%):

Four Graded Speeches Worth a Total of 70% of Course Grade

Introductory Speech: Not Graded/Required

Narrative Speech: 10%

Informative Speech: 20%

Persuasive Speech: 25%

Special Occasion Speech: 15%

Impromptu Speech (as time permits): Extra Credit

Two Exams Each Worth a Total of 20% of Course Grade

Exam One: True/False 10%

Exam Two: Multiple Choice & Essay 10%

Student Participation Worth 10% of Course Grade

Attendance: 5%

Oral, On-Line, and Written Participation: 5%

Grading Scale (for all evaluations including the final grade):

A+ -98 -100% B+ -88 - 89% C+ -78 - 79% D+ -68 - 69% F -0 - 59%

A -93 - 97% B -83 - 87% C -73 - 77% D -63 - 67%

A- -90 - 92% B- -80 - 82% C- -70 - 72% D- -60 – 62

Speech Requirements

Assumed Prerequisite of Speaking Ability:

Each speech builds upon the next both in difficulty level as well as in instructor expectation.

Basic concepts of organization, introduction/body/conclusion, transitions, development, support,

delivery, etc. are assumed to be learned by all students prior to this college-level speaking

experience. Those students who do not feel they have adequate preparation for this course for

whatever reason or in whatever manner, should please bring this to the attention of the instructor

as soon as possible either with a personal meeting, phone call, email, or BlackBoard message.

The instructor will help individually assess the student’s perceived deficit and then make

recommendations for supplemental readings, rehearsal speeches with the instructor, learning

services facilitation, or other such individualized assistance. The responsibility for the student

to share special needs with the instructor is necessary in order that the student may acquire

maxim benefit from this course.

Graded/Ungraded Speech Formats:

There are four graded speeches and two “ungraded” ones that go towards the class participation

assessment. Specific assignments for each may be found at the end of this course outline.

Students are highly encouraged to read over each and every assignment at the onset of this

course in an effort to prepare for the work load ahead, plan for speech topics, and identify

potential problems. Please note also that although the speech is considered “ungraded,” oral and

in most cases written feedback will be given for all presentations.

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Extemporaneous Style for All Speeches: All speeches are to be presented in a manner that does not sound read or memorized. Due to

this requirement, students will not be allowed to use more than one 3” by 5” or 4” by 6” note

card for any of their speeches and students may not use their entire outline on this note card.

The only exception to this is the last graded “special occasion speech” which is considered a

“manuscript” speech. This means that the speech will be typed out fully on one side of each

sheet and backed with plain colored construction paper. Even though the manuscript allows

students to have the entire speech in front of them, it is expected that they still present it in a

more extemporaneous speech style such as a public speaker who uses the teleprompter. The

speech, though in front of the student, should still not be read word for word. At least 70% eye

contact is expected on all speeches, manuscript or not. Finally, for the impromptu speech, no

cards will be used since this speech will be made up on the spot and totally extemporaneous in

nature.

Speech Time Limitations:

Time limitations are strictly adhered to in this classroom because of the time restraints of the

course and because of the practical application to real life speaking situations outside the

classroom. Such speakers as radio broadcasters, TV journalists and talk show hosts, political

candidates, graduation speakers, eulogists, after dinner speakers, and award winners alike must

realize that one of the least tolerated cardinal sins of speaking is to do so for too long a time.

Likewise when there are so many students presenting so frequently throughout the term, it is

necessary for them all to speak on the day they planned and within the time limitations of the

class period.

Therefore, time requirements for all speeches are as follows:

Introductory Speech: 1.5 - 2 minutes

Narrative Speech: 3 - 4 minutes

Informative Speech: 5 - 6 minutes

Persuasive Speech: 6 - 7 minutes

Commemorative Speech: 4 – 5 minutes

Impromptu Speech: 1 – 2 minutes

For all graded speeches, there will be a 30 second grace period given for either under- or

over-time. Beyond this, a point will be deducted for every 30 seconds over or under the

grace period. A student who goes significantly over the grace period has obviously not

rehearsed adequately and thus will be asked to conclude the speech in one or two more

sentences.

Note: Due to potential time restraints of the course, it is possible that towards the end of the

term the time limit may be reduced. This will be announced in class prior to the speech day

when the new speech assignment is being introduced. This means you NEED TO ATTEND

CLASS so that you are aware of such a change if it does occur. This sometimes happens

especially during winter months when classes might be cancelled for weather issues. Please

pay attention to these minor changes. The student is responsible to keep track of such a

change; but the faculty member will note any change prior to the actual speech assignment.

Note: If unforeseen circumstances occur which cause time restrictions towards the end of the

semester, the professor reserves the right to reduce the time limit for any given speech. This

however, will be clearly announced in class. Be sure to ATTEND class so you are aware of

any such change in the assignment!

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Speech Prerequisites for Grading:

In an effort to address the most basic elements of an acceptable speech in this course, the

following list of fundamental requirements must be stated implicitly in an effort to maintain

the integrity and rules of the classroom as well as the respect and consideration of all

participants.

A speech WILL NOT be evaluated yet will receive an automatic F if…

1.… offensive, abusive, foul language or disrespectful and/or discriminatory statements

exist within the speech. In consideration of the various religious, racial, ethnic,

cultural, and gender differences, this cannot and will not be accepted in this

classroom. Audience analysis and basic respect for human difference in this multi-

cultural world is a fundamental requirement for all speeches in any setting and

therefore provides the basis for this standard.

2.…an outline/manuscript or works cited sheet (as required by the individual speech

form) is not handed in PRIOR TO the presentation. Students who do not turn in their

required written materials WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO SPEAK.

3.…the time limitations of the particular speech are severely ignored. Certainly some

students will speak faster or slower when they are in front of an audience. Rehearsals

out loud in front of a real or pretend audience often may help prevent severe time

violations. Reasonable grace periods are also given for each speech. (See “Speech

Time Limitations” above.) However, students who present a speech that is less than

half or more than double the required time, apparently have not rehearsed

appropriately and will not be graded.

4.…the form of the speech does not match the assignment. On rare occasions, students

completely misinterpret the speech assignment due to frequent absences or some other

misunderstanding. In this case, the speech may be done over again if in fact the

student completely redoes it on another topic that is mutually agreed upon by the

instructor and student.

In addition, all speeches must be well researched, organized, and prepared in accordance with

the instructions and guidelines presented in the text, handouts, and lectures for each particular

speech assignment.

PLEASE NOTE: Severe, repeated, and obviously intentional defiance of the above listed

criteria will result in personal consultations with the instructor and/or division chair and

could result in an “F” for this course. Appropriateness of a speech is a fundamental

requirement in real life, not only in the classroom!

Grading Rubric for All Speeches: In an effort to maintain consistency throughout the semester, a standardized speech

evaluation form is attached at the end of this course outline. It will be used on all graded

speeches with minor adaptations and emphases as deemed appropriate for the individual

speech assignments. Since (1) this course assumes a basic knowledge of

writing/organizational methods taught in previous speech classes and freshmen writing

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classes and (2) all speeches build upon the instruction and experience of the previous

speeches, areas that have been covered in class discussion and readings will be graded at an

increased level of expectation and improvement throughout the semester.

For example, “support” in the first graded speech means examples in the student’s personal

life but by the end of the semester, “support” in the persuasive speech means not only

examples but all other forms of evidence (statistics, testimony, analogies, etc.) that are cited

orally in the speech and on the outline as well as are warranted through sound rhetorical

argument. Again, the course builds upon the instruction and experience developed

throughout the semester.

Please note, if students would like a developmental, holistic rubric for each speech, this will

be provided upon request.

Writing Requirements

Audience Analyses (For the Narrative Speech): For every speech, students must consider the importance of audience needs, expectations, and

diversity throughout the entire process of researching, speech development and design,

rehearsal, delivery, and question/answering at the end of the performance. Although this is a

thoughtful requirement for any time one must speak before an audience, it is only a written

assignment for the Narrative Speech.

Assessment of this assignment will be included as 10% of the final speech grade. Specific

rubric for this assignment will be forthcoming. (For instructional material, see student

packets and/or Blackboard attachments. For the standardized speech evaluation form see

attached at the end of this course outline. For course lecture/discussion days, see the “Course

Syllabus” at the end of the Course Outline.)

Speech Outlines/Works Cited Sheets (For the Informative and Persuasive

Speeches): For the Informative and Persuasive Speeches, both a pre outline and a final performance

outline are required to be handed in prior to presenting the speech to the class. The pre

outline is due one week prior to the beginning of the first day of speeches. It must be

submitted to the online tutorial service through the ACS (www.upj.pitt.edu or campus

services). This outline serves as an aid to the student in that it screens major topic or design

errors and forces the student to prepare the speech well in advance of the performance in

order to allow for increased oral rehearsal time. A final copy of this tutorial assessment must

be handed in on the day of the speech presentation as evidence of the tutorial review. Details

will be discussed in class.

Please note that “late” means any length of time after the class period ends, even immediately

following the class! “I forgot” means you do not have your work done on time. “My

computer was out!” or “I ran out of ink/paper.” also mean you are late. “It’s in my room,”

works only to the extent that you can go and get it before the time you are to speak, which in

this case also means that you will be marked “late” for class and class participation. Students

need to weigh the odds and consequences of this penalty. No exceptions can be made in all

fairness to everyone. Emailed late assignments are appreciated but still considered late!

Those students wishing to hand in or email a pre outline two class periods ahead of time will

receive written and/or oral feedback from the instructor in enough time to make revisions

Burke COMMRC 0052, Spring 2018 8

prior to the pre outline deadline. Individual consultations with the instructor are also possible

preferably with advanced notice.

The typed, final outline and a works cited sheet (using APA format only) must be handed

in prior to speaking on the day of the presentation. As noted above, those students who do

not come to class prepared with their required outlines and who have not submitted their

outlines ahead of time to the online service will NOT be permitted to speak on their

assigned date. All tutorial documentation must also be brought the day of the presentation

as well in order to get credit for it. No tutorial documentation; no credit. No outline; no

performance!

Manuscripts/Works Cited Sheets (For the Final Manuscript Speech): For the final graded speech, the Special Occasion Speech, all students are required to hand in

a rough draft or outline of the speech one week period prior to the presentation (similar to the

outline requirement above listed). Those not handing this in will likewise have deducted 5

points from the written assignment section of the evaluation form. Pre assessment by the

tutor as described above applies for this speech as well.

Please note that all “late” assignment requirements apply for the pre manuscript as well.

On the day of their individual performances, all students must turn in to the instructor a

typed, double-spaced copy of the manuscript with citations included in the body of the

manuscript. There also must be a works cited sheet which follows the APA format. The

students must also use a typed manuscript for their performance. However, theirs must be

taped (not stapled) to pieces of solid colored construction paper. This provides a professional

appearance and avoids problems with paper noise or flopping during the speech.

Self and Peer Written Assessments (to be announced): A vital portion of the public speaking experience is assessment. Students not only learn from

their instructor’s comments but they also learn from their self and peer assessments as well.

By learning key components or elements of effective speaking, students learn what to look

for and how to improve various aspects of the speech process. Therefore there are specific

assignments built into this course designed to facilitate this learning objective:

Uploading procedure: Each student is required to do at minimum one self assessment

and one peer assessment of either the narrative, informative, or persuasive speeches.

In order to do this, all students must record their speech either on a smart phone, an

ipad, or on the in-class camera (using your own memory card). This speech must then

be uploaded onto your own computer and sent in copy via email to the professor within

24 hours of their recorded presentations. Each student is responsible for his or her

own uploading. If a student desires to use the class camera, he or she will need to

purchase at least a 4GB to 16GB memory card for video recording or to use his or

her own recording mechanism. Tutors for public speaking may also assist students

with this uploading process. Specific directions concerning type of memory card and

uploading procedure will be discussed very early in the semester.

Peer and Self Assessments: All students must evaluate one of their own recorded

speeches. Each student will be expected to comment on each aspect of the speech

assessment sheet by filling out a clean, instructor evaluation form. The student should

Burke COMMRC 0052, Spring 2018 9

not copy what the instructor has written or what students have written. The student

should write out what he/she sees in observing the recording. This will be a graded

and required part of the overall course participation grade. Comments should be made

about content and delivery. These comments should describe exactly what the speaker

is doing well and not so well at the specific moment within the recordings/oral

presentations. Sample comments should reflect items noted in the standard speech

form used in class.

Please note that additional assessments may be done by students on themselves and on each

other as a form of extra credit towards the class participation grade. Amount of extra credit

will be determined by how thorough and appropriate the responses are. For each additional

review, there is a possibility of up to 5 extra credit points per additional speech evaluation

possible.

In-Class Written Peer Evaluations: As part of the class participation grade, all students must evaluate about half of the

performances throughout the semester both through oral commentary as well as through

written feedback. This assessment is done in class during and after the student performances.

A special evaluation form will be given to each student on speech days in order that they may

identify their peer’s positive and negative speaking techniques involving such items as

organization (main points), support/citations, and delivery. These will be reviewed by the

instructor and forwarded to the appropriate student in an effort to provide additional feedback

for peers as well as facilitate listening and assessment techniques for all students.

Speech Apprehension Exercises: The fear of public speaking is called “Glossophobia,” and it is real. All students are asked to

perform the online version of the PRAC-24 speaking apprehension assessment by the second

class period. The electronic link to this assessment is listed on CourseWeb and is preferred

as it automatically directs your results to the professor (susanw@pitt.edu). It may be found at

http://www.wadsworth.com/communication_d/templates/student_resources/053456223X_ha

milton/survey/prca/.

The actual form is in pdf format as follows: https://www.hawaii.edu/gened/oc/PRCA-24.pdf.

You may use this if you have any trouble getting through to the electronic link.

Another online resource that you can do independently is found online at

http://www.changethatsrightnow.com/communication-apprehension/online-test/ . Please

consider going to this site for additional help!

BlackBoard Discussion Board: As discussed below under “Class Participation and Attendance,” students will be required to

make comments using discussion board on occasion, particularly with the initial exercise on

“student sharing.” As part of the participation grade in class, this opportunity affords all

students a means for sharing information, ideas, questions, and impressions that they may not

otherwise feel comfortable doing orally within the class on all topics. As with all aspects of

this course, however, the same rules apply with consideration of student respect of cultural,

sub cultural and attitudinal differences in language, ideas, needs, and values. In short, respect

for all students must be maintained on line as well as within the classroom.

Burke COMMRC 0052, Spring 2018 10

Examinations This course is designed as a performance-based, active learning experience. The true test of

one’s ability will be measured in the speech writing and presenting demonstrated throughout

the semester. Certainly, students need to read, study, understand, and apply the text materials

throughout the semester and not just the night before an exam or speech.

Midterm Examinations: In an effort to consider student preference in various forms of assessment, there will be two

examinations throughout the semester on text and course content utilizing a variety of test

formats. Exam One will be a true/false objective exam and Exam Two will be a multiple

choice/essay exam. Both will be given in class during the classroom period. (See the

“Course Syllabus” for specific dates/times. Please be sure to contact the instructor well in

advance with any special testing needs.) If too many class cancellations occur (due to

weather or unforeseen circumstances), the second exam may be given during the final

examination period. If necessary, this option will be announced well in advance of the exam.

Practice Examinations: For each chapter for the first half of the course, practice exams are available on BlackBoard

for student review. They too will provide a variety of testing methods. Students who utilize

this study assistance will likely perform better on the graded exams. Additional online

review may be found if the student chooses to use the CONNECT electronic resource

accompanying this text.

Final Examination: Since this is an oral performance course, the students will not have a final examination per se.

Rather the final assessment of the student’s learning will be on the last graded speech. The

time set aside for the final exam will be utilized in the event that graded speeches were not

completed by the last day of class or that students chose to do a make-up speech or

assignment.

Class Participation/Attendance General Perspective: This class may be viewed as a cooperative learning experience in which we are all

responsible for one another's learning. Speeches are not created to be delivered to empty

rooms but rather to attentive audiences. For this reason attending class and sharing ideas,

views, and feedback will be mandatory and therefore evaluated regularly, on a daily basis

throughout this course. Certainly, exceptional needs or learning differences will be dealt with

on an individual basis. Please be sure to bring such cases to the instructor early in the

semester.

Class Attendance Grade: Class Participation (no more than 15% of final grade): Each class meeting is worth 5 points.

Full attention earns 4 of those points. To obtain the full 5 points, the student must verbally

contribute to class discussion and lecture prompts.

Students who use cell phones, laptops, or other such electronic equipment in class will be

docked an additional point for each time this infraction occurs. Time will not be taken away

from class to “discipline” for this rule. Students simply will be docked one point per infraction.

Burke COMMRC 0052, Spring 2018 11

No matter how often that infraction occurs, that number of points will be ducted—even if there

ends up a negative balance for that day.

Please note that if a class needs to be cancelled for any reason by the professor or university,

students will not be deducted for this absence. It will be counted as if they were in attendance for

the day.

Participation Grade Explained: The general numeric method for grading class participation is as follows: Each class is

worth a total of 5 points. Five points per half day is given for active participation, 4 for

moderate, 3 for little, 2 for merely showing up and 1 for an excused absence (which was

cleared with the instructor). If the absence is not excused, no credit is given for that day.

Students arriving late for class are asked to write their name and time of arrival on a slip of

paper and to give this to the instructor at the end of class. This assures the students that at

least partial credit for the day is given; however, a maximum of 3 points can be achieved

when tardy for each affected class period. Scores are tallied for each day and a final

percentage grade is calculated.

The total number of participation points is 5 points per half class or a total of 140 points per

semester. If the professor, however, unexpectedly cancels class and no substitution

arrangements/requirements were able to be made in advance, you will get automatic full

credit for the entire class period missed.

Students may ask to see their participation grade at any time.

Participation Rubric is as follows:

Score of 5: Excellent. Student attends class on time. Student actively participates in

classroom discussions, in group work, on the peer written assessments, at the end of

student question/answer periods on speech days, and/or by responding on Discussion

Board or by email to the instructor (especially if topic matters make a student

uncomfortable in expressing themselves orally or publicly to all students). Student

responses may involve such things as asking questions, expressing ideas,

demonstrating active attention/engagement (through note taking, eye contact, focus,

etc.). On the occasion that a Discussion Board question is required (such as in the

opening exercise), the student responds thoroughly and insightfully.

Score of 4: Strong. Student attends class on time. Student participates in any of the

manners listed above but shows less depth of thought, responsiveness, involvement,

and/or interest. If the Discussion Board is used, the student provides adequate but

minimally reactive and introspective responses.

Score of 3: Moderate. Student is somewhat late for class entering after role is

already taken. Student seldom participates according to the above standards and does

so with little or no development of ideas or depth. If the Discussion Board is used,

student responds with little more than a yes/no comment or a simple phrase.

Score of 2: Problematic. Student misses half or more of the class. There is no real

indication of student involvement or participation. Student may be daydreaming or

sleeping. There is no response given on Discussion Board.

Burke COMMRC 0052, Spring 2018 12

Score of 1: Deficient. Student misses the entire class. Student provides an excuse

for the absence and discusses it with the instructor. Student does not utilize

Discussion Board.

Score of 0: Severely Deficient. Student misses the entire class. Student does not

provide an excuse. Student does not email the instructor or use Discussion Board.

Extra Credit Speech Revisions:

Students may redo one or more speeches in an effort to improve their grade.

The requirements for this option are as follows:

(1) Students must do a totally different speech on a different topic but must follow the same

criteria of the particular speech assignment.

(2) Students must complete this make-up work by no later than the last scheduled day of classes.

(Exceptions may be made for finals week if prearrangements are made and the need arises.

Remember this is solely at the discretion of the instructor.)

(3) Students must perform the make ups in front of a live audience, preferably their own

classmates.

(4) Students can only receive the same or improved grades upon doing a new speech. That is,

they cannot do worse than on the first speech. The better of the two grades will be given.

(5) Students may not substitute a speech grade for one that they did not have prepared for on

time. This is not to be used for late speech assignments.

Outside Speech Extra Credit Assignment:

Early in the semester, an option will be provided for all students to observe one outside

speech and prepare a written assessment of that speech as a form of extra credit. This option

will be given to all students but will be encouraged especially for special cases of absence or

student failure to meet required number of classes. Details of this credit will be discussed

individually on a case by case basis with the affected student. However, all students may in

fact do this assignment simply as a form of extra credit. Evaluation forms for this assignment

may be found in the course packet and/or on BlackBoard.

Additional Data Base “Library” Tour or Extra Credit Classes towards

Attendance (pending availability):

It is possible that an extra “class” might be made available to the students during the

semester. One such class is the library “tour” of data bases. Library extra classes may or may

not be held during the semester since one is already required as part of the regular class

schedule. In the event that extra library sessions are available and students do attend, a

signed verification of this extra attendance is necessary. Library personnel will provide this.

David Kupas, Instruction/Public Services Librarian, is the coordinator of these “tours.” He

may be reached by email at dmk24@pitt.edu or by phone at 269-1983.

Additional presentations/lectures/conference sessions on campus may also be used as extra

credit towards attendance make-up. These will be announced as they come up throughout the

Burke COMMRC 0052, Spring 2018 13

semester. Students are always encouraged to bring additional options to the instructor’s

attention as well.

All students who attend available extra credit “classes” will receive a maximum of 5 points (a

half class for night classes) bonus towards class participation and a bonus day or partial day

of class to be used towards any absence during the semester. If students receive 100% in

either class attendance and/or participation, they then will earn more than 100% for those

respective grade categories. This will then “bleed over” into their other course grades. In

short, students are awarded for all extra work!

Tutorial Services: A wide variety of extra credit opportunities exist through tutorial

services. These are listed in the section that follows.

Tutorial Services (For both extra credit and required assignments)

General Information:

The Academic Success Center (ASC) provides a full array of tutorial services including

public speaking. Students are highly encouraged to discuss their outlines, ideas, and research

with a trained tutor. They are also encouraged to rehearse their presentations orally during

the designated times offered by the ASC or pre record their speeches and send them for

feedback through the tutorial site for review by trained tutors. This program has been in

force for the past several years and improves in depth and focus each semester.

Remember that each subject may have different tutors and different tutorial requirements. Be

sure to review all requirements for this particular course when preparing for class

assignments.

Types of Tutorial Services Available:

Online Tutoring Center Access: There are many routes to get to the various

available tutorial services. Some students prefer to go straight to “Campus Services.”

More specifically, you can go to www.upj.pitt.edu, click on “Academics” across the

top of the page, click on “Academic Success Center” on the left column, click on

“Tutoring Services” in the blue box to the right, click on “Drop-In Tutoring” to access

information on the times and location of tutoring services, click on “Public Speaking”

for our particular speaking times (see below), click on “Campus Services” for

dropping off outlines for review. You may also email tutorupj@pitt.edu to request a

private tutorial session.

Drop-In Tutorial Sessions: Public speaking tutors are regularly scheduled for drop-

in sessions with students on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from

4:00 to 5:00 PM and 7:00 to 8:00 PM (Krebs 200 or 201—pending). All students

must utilize the drop-in online service at least once throughout the semester (required

for the first Narrative Speech). Although it is suggested that all speeches are presented

to tutors during each preparation period, individual requirements will be announced

for each speech. Extra credit and/or required submissions will be discussed in class.

Burke COMMRC 0052, Spring 2018 14

On the day of speech presentation, students must bring a signed form as evidence of

their attendance with a tutor. (See below.)

Online Requirements for Pre-Submitted Materials for Review:

1. Narrative Speech: No online requirement. Only an in-person presentation is

required at the ASC.

2. Informative Speech: A pre-outline must be submitted on line.

3. Persuasive Speech: A preliminary PowerPoint must be submitted on line. If

students additionally submit a pre-outline online or go to the speech center to

present their speech orally, they can earn up to 5 additional points per speech

depending on whether or not the student made revisions according to the

suggestion of the tutor. (Note: Anytime there are discrepancies between what

was taught in class and graded by the tutors, it is expected that this be brought to

the professor’s attention.)

4. Commemorative Speech: A pre-recorded video of the commemorative speech

must be submitted on line to the tutors. This is the student’s responsibility.

Again, if students submit a pre-outline or oral presentation to the tutors, up to 5

bonus points may be earned.

Please Note:

1. All materials must be submitted for tutorial review in a timely manner that

affords student improvement on their final presentation. That is, no student

should present only moments before their oral presentation in class. This does not

allow enough time for reflection, practice, and improvement. There needs to be a

clear improvement in the written outlines as well.

2. Students should submit their copies of their outlines and/or manuscripts

without their own names attached to the paper for privacy reasons. However, it

is advised that the name of the faculty member and class be included on the

submitted document, so that the tutor might use the appropriate forms associated

with that particular class.

3. Typically materials will be returned to the dropbox within 48 hours during

the business week. Students will receive an email when the materials are

reviewed and available for pick-up from the tutorial website.

4. All students must PRINT the comments made by the tutor and include these in

with your final speech outline on the day of your speech. This assures the

instructor that you are using the service effectively and you are responding to the

comments made by the tutors. It also serves as a check and balance system for all

tutors in an effort to insure that students are being guided according to the

department standards. Absolutely no credit will be given without the copy of the

tutorial assessment at the time of the speech presentation! 5. Any use of tutorial services beyond the required ones listed above will afford the

student extra credit for the speech rehearsed (up to 5% of the speech grade). All

extra credit awards will be based upon the extent of student effort and

improvement.

Burke COMMRC 0052, Spring 2018 15

Student Accountability and Accommodations

Plagiarism:

In the event that students plagiarize by submitting work that is not their own, they will

automatically fail that assignment. If students do this a second time, they will automatically

fail the course. Please refer to the text, supplemental materials, and classroom discussions

for a more thorough explanation of plagiarism. In short without identifying the source for the

utilized quotes, paraphrased materials, data, analyses, ideas, organizational patterns, or views

of others both in writing on the outline/manuscript and orally in the speech, the students have

plagiarized and will be without question held accountable.

Disability Accommodation:

If you have a disability for which you are or may be requesting an accommodation, you are

encouraged to contact both your instructor and the Office of Health and Counseling Services, G-

10 Student Union, 814-269-7119 as early as possible in the term. The Office of Health and

Counseling Services will verify your disability and determine reasonable accommodations for

this course.

Cell Phones, eBooks, Laptops, iPods, et al.: Please minimize use of all electronic devices within the classroom. Although it is possible that

students have an eText, it is preferred that students do not use their computers in class in order

that a widely communicative, distraction-free environment may be achieved. Under no

circumstance should a student use a cell phone or any other electronic device during a speech

performance unless it is approved specifically for disability accommodation purposes. (See

above.)

Cell phones are not permitted in class unless being used for recording purposes by the

speaker. Please turn off all electronic devices and be fully attentive and respectful during all

class periods. Please be considerate.

Students caught texting or using electronic devices will be penalized for each time the

infraction occurs. As noted above, there will be one point deducted from the total number of

participation points for each infraction per day.

Some Final Comments

Some people have the impression that the ability to speak in public is a talent that some have

while others do not. If there is any truth to this notion it probably will not be proven in this

course. The only way to receive a "good grade" in this class is through careful preparation of

your speeches. Inadequate preparation will show through a speech no matter how smooth or

confident the speaker might appear. On the other hand, extensive preparation will give even a

very nervous speaker a solid speech. The choice is your own.