Public Speaking

Evaluation Assignment

When this class started, every student entered with different strengths, talents, and goals.  I never had one collective end point in mind for all of you.  You all started in different places and you will all end in different places.  My goal for you has always been growth.  I desired for you to grow as a speaker, critical thinker, and scholar.

Now you need to assess that growth.  For your final assignment, you must visit the Communication Lab, watch your videotape (of the informative and persuasive speeches), and write an essay.  Minimally, your essay should address your strengths and weaknesses as a speaker, your growth, and your future goals.  Please do not feel that you need to “suck up” in this paper.  I respect honesty and candor. 

For the informative and persuasive, revisit your critique sheets and draw from those.  Additionally, look at your classmates’ comments from your speeches.  How have you addressed their concerns over the course of the semester? Share specific examples from your performances AND the feedback you received.

Structure your paper just like you would a speech:  (a) intro with an attention getter, thesis, and preview of main points; (b) a body with three to five main points; and (c) a conclusion that includes a review and a tie up.  Remember, this is an academic paper and should be written on a scholarly level.  The word “you” should not appear anywhere in the text.

The paper must be stapled in the left corner, double spaced throughout and at least two FULL pages and no more than four pages.  It should be typed in 12 point, Times New Roman.  Use standard 1” margins and do not justify the right margin.  Reference an MLA or APA manual for any other formatting questions. 

The paper will be graded on mechanics and content.  For every mechanical mistake, two points will be deducted.  For every content-related question I have to ask, five points will be taken off.  The assignment is worth 100 points and is due the last class session before Study Days at the beginning of class.

Attach the Communication Lab report from the day you viewed the videotape of your speeches.