CMM 103… Fundamentals of Speech Communication

Spring Semester 2008

MWF 8-8:50 / 9-9:50

Instructor:    Kristen McClellan

Office:  SH 255  (304) 696-2807

Office Hours:  Mondays  10-12 / 1:30-4   (or appointment)

Email:           mcclellan25@marshall.edu

Required Text:  Public Speaking, Strategies for Success 5^th Ed., Zarefsky

      Fundamentals of Speech Communication Student Wkbk 11^th Ed., Bookwalter

Also required:  A blank mini DVD… type DVD+RW

Course Description:  This course is designed to enhance the development of critical thinking skills and their application to verbal and nonverbal interaction in interpersonal and public communication contexts. This course is a general requirement of the University.

Course Objectives:  

·        You will apply and improve communication skills through hands-on, in class activities

·        You will demonstrate the principles of public speaking through the presentation of speaking assignments

·        You will understand the importance of listening skills, then build upon that through written critiques and group activities

·        You will learn and exercise research skills, while researching topics by utilizing the library and vast other resources.

·        You will improve both verbal and nonverbal speaking skills

Academic Policy:  The Marshall University Code of Student Conduct prohibits all forms of academic dishonesty. Please refer to the Marshall University Student Handbook for these regulations.   http://www.marshall.edu/student-affairs/section/handbook/20030StudentHandbook.pdf

Special Needs or Disabilites:  Students with a documented special need or a disability may request special services. The student must contact the instructor within the first two weeks of the academic session for  making these arrangements.  http://www.marshall.edu/disabled

Attendance: Class attendance and participation are VITAL to your success in this class. Since communication generally needs face-to-face contact, then you will need to be here! Missing class on the day that you are scheduled to present your speech will be detrimental to your grade… as in a zero. It is always much easier to let me know ahead of time if there is a problem…

Assignments: All assignments MUST be typed! I will not accept assignments by email. You must hand in a hard copy the day that the assignment is due.

Professionalism:

·        All cell phones and other electronic devices must be OFF (or set to silent.)

·        Do NOT enter the room while someone is presenting their speech.

·        Public speaking is a SCARY thing for many people. Others may not be as comfortable as you in this situation. Please remember this and offer each other your support and attention. This will foster a SAFE learning environment, as well as a confidence-building one.

Grades: Figured on a straight scale: A – 90%  B – 80%  C – 70%  D – 60%