Elective – Public Speaking and Debate
Course Overview
Public Speaking and Debate is a dynamic elective that empowers students to express themselves clearly, persuasively, and confidently. Students develop their speaking, listening, argumentation, and critical thinking skills through structured practice in various speech formats and competitive debate styles. The course enhances leadership, civic engagement, and college-readiness by building confidence in public communication.
Topics include speech structure, delivery techniques, research methods, rhetorical strategies, logic and fallacies, and formal debate rules. Students participate in individual and group presentations, debates, and peer evaluations, aligning with Florida Communication and English Language Arts standards.
Learning Outcomes by Quarter
- Quarter 1: Understand foundations of communication, audience analysis, and speech structure; practice informative speaking.
- Quarter 2: Study persuasion, rhetorical appeals, and argumentative structure; practice persuasive and motivational speeches.
- Quarter 3: Introduce formal debate formats (Lincoln-Douglas, Policy, Parliamentary); focus on research, rebuttals, and cross-examination.
- Quarter 4: Participate in full debates, speech tournaments, and public speaking showcases with peer and instructor evaluation.
Instructional Methods
Instruction involves workshops, live and recorded speeches, structured debates, peer feedback, and critique sessions. Students engage in role-play, case studies, and simulation of public forums. Emphasis is placed on voice control, posture, delivery techniques, critical listening, and response formulation.
Assessment and Grading
| Category | Weight |
|---|---|
| Speeches & Debates | 40% |
| Preparation & Research | 20% |
| Journals & Reflections | 15% |
| Peer Reviews & Participation | 15% |
| Quizzes & Technique Drills | 10% |
Florida Standards Alignment
| Topic | Florida Benchmark | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Oral Communication | ELA.912.C.2.1 | Present claims and findings clearly and effectively |
| Argument & Debate | ELA.912.A.1.4 | Use logical reasoning and evidence in formal argument |
| Rhetorical Analysis | ELA.912.R.3.3 | Analyze use of rhetoric in speeches and texts |
| Media & Presentation | ELA.912.C.5.2 | Use digital tools and visual aids in presentations |
Academic Vocabulary Matrix
| Category | Key Terms | Contextual Application |
|---|---|---|
| Speech Structure | Thesis, Hook, Transition, Conclusion | Applied in organizing clear and engaging speeches |
| Rhetoric & Style | Ethos, Pathos, Logos, Repetition | Used in persuasive writing and speaking strategies |
| Debate Skills | Rebuttal, Resolution, Flow Chart | Practiced in team and individual debate formats |
| Delivery Techniques | Projection, Pace, Gestures, Eye Contact | Assessed in live and recorded public speaking tasks |