Douglas Casson | St. Olaf College

Speaking

In the same way that reading and writing can be improved, speaking is a skill that can be refined with practice. In this course, you will be required to speak publically during class discussions and presentations.

In order to think more clearly about your oral contributions to this course, ask yourself the following four sets of questions:

Participation. Are you able to get a word in edgewise? Are you contributing  to every single session? Are you able to make a point, respond to an argument, or ask a question? Are you coming to class prepared with notes on what you would like to say in order to avoid lost opportunities and increase your confidence? Are you posing questions to speakers when you are confused and responding to arguments when you disagree?

Persuasiveness. Are you making your case as persuasively as you can? Can you develop a single, declarative sentence that states the central message you want to convey (this statement should be clear and concise)? Are you able to support your case with appropriate historical and textual evidence? Can you acknowledge and evaluate counter-arguments and counter-evidence?  Are you able to anticipate the “so what” question,  that is, are you able to explain why this claim should matter to your audience?

Appropriateness. Are you maintaining academic decorum? Are you able to address pertinent issues with suitable language? Are you conveying an appreciation of and respect for the speakers and the audience? Are you talking, texting, or surfing the internet while someone in the room is talking.

Delivery. Are you able to speak clearly and coherently? Do you show confidence and preparation through appropriate body language? Are you able to avoid reading, and make eye contact? Have you practiced vocal inflection and pronunciation in order to make sure you are as persuasive as you can be? Do you demonstrate sincerity or “ownership” of the argument?