I've learned lots about public speaking in this class, which is the purpose of a public speaking class, but I just felt like sharing that. Probably one of the most helpful concepts I learned while in this class for preparing speeches was the drafting of an outline. It may be common sense for many, but putting a speech in outline form helps so much. Although I personally don't like putting the time into writing out an outline, its end result is a help like no other. Having your intro, main points, ideas, etc. in your outline really help you prepare for the delivery because it gives you a format to follow; it tells you what you need to say next.
Most of us probably took some type of communication/public speaking class in high school. I don't know about everyone else, but I sure didn't prepare outlines for the speeches I gave then. The teacher didn't even require them. Anyway, up until this public speaking class here in college I've learned to prepare for speeches with more than just note cards ( although I still need to depend a bit less on note cards) because I've garnered the skill of drafting an outline.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Week 13: Discussion Question 3
The concept I chose to discuss from this week's reading is from chapter sixteen, speeches of introduction. Many of us have had the chance to introduce a speaker. When doing this we do a short speech that introduces someone to an audience. I remember giving the introduction to the speaker who gave the commencement address for my high school graduation; I didn't do a terrible job, but it would have been helpful to know these following points.
It is important to remember to keep focusing everything one is saying to the speaker and the speaker's speech. Everything must move in the direction of the speaker because you are essentially preparing the audience for the main speaker. When doing an introductory speech it is not necessary for it to be long; you're just doing the little intro, let the speaker speak because after all, that is what the audience has come for. A second point to remember is to know the speaker well, research them. Although you'll be doing far more research than needed, it is good to know too much than too little, especially for somebody who you are presenting to a group of people. Last but not least, one should try to develop a relationship with the audience. One can connect with the audience by interesting them in the soon to follow speech by the speaker, as well as by having good background knowledge of the speaker. These tips can surely help anyone who has yet to give a speech of introduction.
Week 13: Discussion Question 2
I like to stay healthy. Some of the main ways I stay healthy is by eating a good diet, exercising regularly and trying to always sleep adequate hours. Whenever I'm talking to friends, or anyone really, more often than not subjects regarding health come up. It just so happens that one of my best friends is in her first semester of nursing school. She was telling me that she is having a hard time in school due to many reasons, but her biggest complaint is that she does not get enough sleep. Being the helpful little friend I am I attempted to persuade her to try to sleep better hours because it jeopardizes her health.
In hopes of helping my friend, the type of reasoning I used was causal reasoning. This is where one action results in another. For this specific occasion I informed her (reminded actually because she already knows this) that having bad sleeping habits and not having proper rest will result in incapability to function at a prime level, hence not doing well in school. She understood that rest is a big factor that must be worked on because she certainly does not want to be tired and risk doing poorly on her academics. I believe my reasoning worked because she agreed to try to implement more sleep. But, people make promises all the time and break them. She may just decide that there is too much studying and homework that need to be done so cutting back on sleep will have to be a sacrifice. Its understandable in some circumstances, but one should always strive to get good rest regularly.
Remember fellow students and everyone else on the web who might read this, brain restoration and memory consolidation occur during sleep. So, if you're trying to remember the information that you've been studying all day long, go to bed at a decent hour instead of staying up late to study more; your brain will amass all the studying you've worked hard on so you can quickly recall it when needed.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Week 13: Discussion Question 1
I enjoyed watching those two videos on home schooling. Watching the speakers present both sides of the topic was interesting. Since I'm on this topic, I think home schooling is a great option, but it would depend on the child; does the child want to be home schooled or continue in his or her traditional school? I've known several home schooled students over the years (mainly through them showing up for extra-curricular activities such as band, choir and physical education) and they were always some of the smartest students around. However, being a home schooled came at the expense of being made fun of and shunned by the "cool" kids, just because they were home schooled. Don't worry, I didn't shun them. But, the home schooled I knew had great confidence about themselves and were not easily bothered by other students; they seemed to have little or no insecurities which may have stemmed from being home schooled (e.g. not having been exposed to troublesome students, drama, violence, etc.)
Anyway, for every topic there are two sides, the pros and the cons. Each speaker can argue for their side and make a good case; it's up to the audience to then decide what is best for them. Something I learned from this video is that I should look up arguments that will be made against my main points; what is on the opposite side, you know? It's always important to be prepared to answer back to disagreements, or to just know the oppositions and know how to counteract them.
I think the appeals that were used were geared towards parents, or those with children, obviously. The speaker who was speaking for home schooling used the tearful child example to open and close, showing how the public school system can be detrimental to a child's development. The speaker who opposed home school stated that most of them would not be willing to sacrifice their careers and time. Also, that most people who would home school would not be qualified to teach. The first appeal was directed more towards a concern for the child, while the second video's appeal seemed to be for the parents. Differences aside, they both did a great job in presenting their information.
Anyway, for every topic there are two sides, the pros and the cons. Each speaker can argue for their side and make a good case; it's up to the audience to then decide what is best for them. Something I learned from this video is that I should look up arguments that will be made against my main points; what is on the opposite side, you know? It's always important to be prepared to answer back to disagreements, or to just know the oppositions and know how to counteract them.
I think the appeals that were used were geared towards parents, or those with children, obviously. The speaker who was speaking for home schooling used the tearful child example to open and close, showing how the public school system can be detrimental to a child's development. The speaker who opposed home school stated that most of them would not be willing to sacrifice their careers and time. Also, that most people who would home school would not be qualified to teach. The first appeal was directed more towards a concern for the child, while the second video's appeal seemed to be for the parents. Differences aside, they both did a great job in presenting their information.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Week 12: Discussion Question 3
It wasn't until I read this chapter that I understood what coercion was. Sure I have heard it used here and there in times past, but I didn't understand that that word was used to identify the opposite, negative side of persuasion. As our textbook said, coercion is forcing someone to think a certain way or making someone feel compelled to act under pressure or threat. For a long time I just thought that this was described as "persuading with fear."
Growing up I often went to church with my parents and I would listen to a preacher, pastor, priest or cardinal give some kind of religious talk/sermon. Some of them were very good and seemed to want the best for the congregation; they spoke with feelings, a moving power and I believe had a genuine care for the church people. However, some of religious speakers I heard used some frightening scare tactics to try to persuade people to believe something or to behave a certain way. I now am aware that they were using coercion, not persuasion really. Our textbook said, "Brainwashing or intimidating people to get a desired effect is not persuasion" (pg. 274). People who attempt to change groups minds would benefit from trying to persuade rather than coercing. The steps to persuading are not terribly difficult; one must just follow the correct steps and obviously be knowledgeable on the topic. Speakers who know how to persuade do so rightfully by using the problem-solution, problem-cause-solution, or Monroe's motivated sequence pattern of organization.
Growing up I often went to church with my parents and I would listen to a preacher, pastor, priest or cardinal give some kind of religious talk/sermon. Some of them were very good and seemed to want the best for the congregation; they spoke with feelings, a moving power and I believe had a genuine care for the church people. However, some of religious speakers I heard used some frightening scare tactics to try to persuade people to believe something or to behave a certain way. I now am aware that they were using coercion, not persuasion really. Our textbook said, "Brainwashing or intimidating people to get a desired effect is not persuasion" (pg. 274). People who attempt to change groups minds would benefit from trying to persuade rather than coercing. The steps to persuading are not terribly difficult; one must just follow the correct steps and obviously be knowledgeable on the topic. Speakers who know how to persuade do so rightfully by using the problem-solution, problem-cause-solution, or Monroe's motivated sequence pattern of organization.
Week 12: Discussion Question 2
How have we not been immersed in a sea of persuasion? Just about everywhere people look they will see all kinds of ads trying to get one to buy into their products, religion, train of thought, etc., all by means of persuasion. Of course though, some may think they are doing it for right reasons, for example a certain denomination might come knock at your door and discuss controversial topics with you and try to persuade you to follow their beliefs, all in the name of saving you (we've all had that happen, right?) It's not always that persuasion messages are bad though.
In my American government class last semester we had to analyze news articles from major newspapers each week, detecting them for bias. In doing that I learned how to become a better consumer of mass media by learning a few tricks that writers use to make their material subjective. Some of the tips were things such as checking the sources of the article, flattering or unflattering pictures of individuals reported on, and specific wording/ wording effects.
Some public speakers are very good at appealing to audience's pathos, appealing to the emotions. Feelings and emotions can be very strong, hence speakers can manipulate them to make one get involved in a club or charity. I've heard a few very persuasive speakers live and I do remember taking up reading more as a hobby, due to a speech I heard years ago. The speaker emphasized how reading is what made him who he is today, but it wouldn't have been without the consistent push and love from his mother that made him read more and continue on to become a world-renowned physician. He went on to talk about mother more and got emotional, which is what led others to become emotional. It was funny and moving at the same time.
Becoming a better consumer in a world where messages and ads are constantly bombarded can be a difficult and annoying place to be. That's all commercials are really; they're trying to get people to buy something, trying to make them believe they need it (my parents are good at falling for those traps too). And walking downtown in a city one cannot help buy see the huge billboards with a hot model wearing a fancy clothing brand. The persuasive messages will never cease, but one can be more informed and analyze, "Perhaps there is more to it than just buying this pair of jeans...what else is this company promoting here?" We should become critical thinkers.
In my American government class last semester we had to analyze news articles from major newspapers each week, detecting them for bias. In doing that I learned how to become a better consumer of mass media by learning a few tricks that writers use to make their material subjective. Some of the tips were things such as checking the sources of the article, flattering or unflattering pictures of individuals reported on, and specific wording/ wording effects.
Some public speakers are very good at appealing to audience's pathos, appealing to the emotions. Feelings and emotions can be very strong, hence speakers can manipulate them to make one get involved in a club or charity. I've heard a few very persuasive speakers live and I do remember taking up reading more as a hobby, due to a speech I heard years ago. The speaker emphasized how reading is what made him who he is today, but it wouldn't have been without the consistent push and love from his mother that made him read more and continue on to become a world-renowned physician. He went on to talk about mother more and got emotional, which is what led others to become emotional. It was funny and moving at the same time.
Becoming a better consumer in a world where messages and ads are constantly bombarded can be a difficult and annoying place to be. That's all commercials are really; they're trying to get people to buy something, trying to make them believe they need it (my parents are good at falling for those traps too). And walking downtown in a city one cannot help buy see the huge billboards with a hot model wearing a fancy clothing brand. The persuasive messages will never cease, but one can be more informed and analyze, "Perhaps there is more to it than just buying this pair of jeans...what else is this company promoting here?" We should become critical thinkers.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Week 12: Discussion Question 1
We have read in our textbook before on the different patterns of organization, but in chapter fourteen the Problem-Solution, Problem-Cause-Solution and Monroe's Motivated Sequence were reintroduced and discussed in a bit more detail because these three types of organization are most effective in persuasive speaking, which is the topic of chapter fourteen.
The Problem-Solution pattern is pretty self-explanatory; it presents the problem or issue at hand and then shows the correct protocol for a resolution, the solution. Like our textbook mentioned, if this pattern is to be used in a presentation, the first step must be clear (e.g. the problem). It is only after that the solution can be given. One must be a good speaker to make sure that the problem was clearly identified because if it is not, then the solution presented will not be very effective, let alone remembered.
Monroe's motivated sequence requires a little more than the problem-solution pattern. Because Monroe's sequence is primarily used for persuasive speeches, it allows one to "take an audience-centered approach" (pg. 285). The steps involved with this pattern of organization include 1) getting the attention of the audience/relating topic to them, 2) establishing the problem/current harm, 3) explaining the solution to the problem, 4) showing pros and/or cons of the solution and 5) explaining how the audience can implement the proposed solution. This is a very step by step pattern and gives the audience a more structured, organized way to keep track of the presentation.
Personally, for the final of this course I would prefer to use Monroe's motivated sequence, however I feel that it would be more effective with more time and given we only have five to six minutes, I'd be too concerned to tackle this process. The problem-solution pattern would be more simple because basically it just says, "because of X, Y can and should be followed." Anyway, I suppose I'd still go along with Monroe's because my topic would fit more with that pattern of organization.
The Problem-Solution pattern is pretty self-explanatory; it presents the problem or issue at hand and then shows the correct protocol for a resolution, the solution. Like our textbook mentioned, if this pattern is to be used in a presentation, the first step must be clear (e.g. the problem). It is only after that the solution can be given. One must be a good speaker to make sure that the problem was clearly identified because if it is not, then the solution presented will not be very effective, let alone remembered.
Monroe's motivated sequence requires a little more than the problem-solution pattern. Because Monroe's sequence is primarily used for persuasive speeches, it allows one to "take an audience-centered approach" (pg. 285). The steps involved with this pattern of organization include 1) getting the attention of the audience/relating topic to them, 2) establishing the problem/current harm, 3) explaining the solution to the problem, 4) showing pros and/or cons of the solution and 5) explaining how the audience can implement the proposed solution. This is a very step by step pattern and gives the audience a more structured, organized way to keep track of the presentation.
Personally, for the final of this course I would prefer to use Monroe's motivated sequence, however I feel that it would be more effective with more time and given we only have five to six minutes, I'd be too concerned to tackle this process. The problem-solution pattern would be more simple because basically it just says, "because of X, Y can and should be followed." Anyway, I suppose I'd still go along with Monroe's because my topic would fit more with that pattern of organization.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Week 11: Discussion Question 3
Using language effectively may seem to be easy for some speakers, but in reality, it's not that simple, unless you're naturally gifted with great speaking skills. Knowing how to use inclusive and audience-centered language is important in all types of presentations. For the large amount of public speaking I do (I'm being sarcastic here) I try to always personalize my language, to try to specify what I'm saying to the audience that is listening to me. It is far more effective to personalize a speech than to just give the same speech to every group one would speak for (e.g. a celebrity speaking at commencement ceremonies).
What struck me the hardest in this week's reading, along with being audience-centered, is to use inclusive language, that is, words that don't privilege one group over another. As our textbook mentioned, not using inclusive language can suggest that one is stereotyping or hating on a certain group of people. Classifications that are often given are people's race, class and gender. I personally don't favor being placed into a group and having others remember me only by one label that someone placed on me. For example, "the tattooed Hispanic guy." Not that I'm offended by such labels, but really? Sure I have some ink and come from a Hispanic background, but there is so much more to me than that. Not using labels that place people into what may be perceived as something derogatory is what we should strive for. This can also be said for nonsexist language.
What struck me the hardest in this week's reading, along with being audience-centered, is to use inclusive language, that is, words that don't privilege one group over another. As our textbook mentioned, not using inclusive language can suggest that one is stereotyping or hating on a certain group of people. Classifications that are often given are people's race, class and gender. I personally don't favor being placed into a group and having others remember me only by one label that someone placed on me. For example, "the tattooed Hispanic guy." Not that I'm offended by such labels, but really? Sure I have some ink and come from a Hispanic background, but there is so much more to me than that. Not using labels that place people into what may be perceived as something derogatory is what we should strive for. This can also be said for nonsexist language.
Week 11: Discussion Question 2
Everyone will differ on their stance regarding sexist language because we're all accustomed to certain words while others might find some words offensive or belittling. In response to the sexist language discussion on Flickr, it shows how some people react to specific words used by many and how others want to encourage people to watch their word choices. Some of the words were "girl" when referring to a female or "boy" when referring to a man. A lot of people, and our textbook, agree that trying to establish a gender-neutral approach would be ideal, but this isn't an ideal world. One may try to improve society's lack of proper English and grammar though. Oh, and I hope the people who posted on Flickr improve their writing skills because that was a little painful to read.
Using nonsexist language is what we should strive for, but for a lot of people it's not a big deal. I think being politically correct all the time is a bit silly; people shouldn't be so easily offended or mind what people say. If I remember correctly, there were a couple of people on that Flickr post who suggested that certain words be prohibited from use, banning words! Are they out of their minds? Banning words goes against freedom of speech and infringes on people's rights. Its just like when someone states that burning of the American flag should be illegal. Well, no it shouldn't. Yes, it is disrespectful to some, but people have the right to do so, they have freedom of expression which the First Amendment provides. We shouldn't let feelings and emotions decide on what can or can't be done; dont' do away with words due to one person's conclusions.
Using nonsexist language is what we should strive for, but for a lot of people it's not a big deal. I think being politically correct all the time is a bit silly; people shouldn't be so easily offended or mind what people say. If I remember correctly, there were a couple of people on that Flickr post who suggested that certain words be prohibited from use, banning words! Are they out of their minds? Banning words goes against freedom of speech and infringes on people's rights. Its just like when someone states that burning of the American flag should be illegal. Well, no it shouldn't. Yes, it is disrespectful to some, but people have the right to do so, they have freedom of expression which the First Amendment provides. We shouldn't let feelings and emotions decide on what can or can't be done; dont' do away with words due to one person's conclusions.
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Week 11: Discussion Question 1
I've always been a little confused when deciding what words to use during a speech, my word choices. In papers, and in science classes, we are taught to write in third person. However, this is not the case for speeches. In the videos regarding chapter ten we are instructed on how to engage with our audience with our words. Being audience centered can entail using pronouns such as "you" or "us;" being inclusive. This can be very helpful because this includes everyone and makes the audience feel involved. Other points I learned for chapter ten were to use appropriate language, making it effective and meaningful. This could be by being concise and definitely not using offensive (or questionable) language. One might think these tips are obvious, but I remember a student using a swear word during a speech in my high school speech class. It was quite shocking actually.
Sometimes I think I don't speak loudly and clear enough. I mentioned a speech impairment of mine in my previous self-evaluation and how I've worked hard for years to minimize it, but it will slip out sometimes, especially if I speak too fast or don't enunciate properly. Like the videos for chapter twelve mentioned, vocal delivery is very crucial. One must speak loudly and at a good pitch for the audience to hear best, as well as not speaking too fast and not too slow. Also, changing the pace of one's words is important as well, but keeping a balance.
For physical delivery, well, we're all progressing, right? Eye contact is most people's challenge, I think. Besides eye contact, facial expressions must be positive ones. Grinning from ear to ear is excessive, but choosing correct expressions is important. Although, a positive facial expression in a somber, sad event probably wouldn't suit it well. What I'm trying to say is that it all depends on the occasion. Finally, I need to remember to not use body contact if it does not feel appropriate in that moment. I think for my last speech I only took like two steps and didn't use my arms much. Perhaps it wasn't enough physical body movement, but sometimes its ok to not have lots of body movement.
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