Schedule: 
 
[2/11 to 4/15, No class 4/1 and 4/8] Thursdays, 4:15 to 5:15 PM
Thursday
4:15 to 5:15 PM (PST)
 
 
Grades: G6-8
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Course summary
 
The Public Speaking classes are designed to foster communication skills in students. In an increasingly divided and media-driven world, the ability to convey ideas accurately and effectively is paramount. Moreover, the skill of persuasively presenting one’s positions or viewpoints is of importance regardless of what discipline or profession a person is in. 
 
While the class is focused on oral communication, the key to effective oral communication resides in the ability to organize, synthesize, and present information in a compelling manner. Therefore, there is overlapping ability between reading, composition, and communication skills. To this end, students will read and study speeches given by effective communicators, such as MLK, Obama, and Marita Cheng. Students will also listen and engage with TED talks to emulate the format and communication style. Finally, students will write and present their own speeches to the class.
 
Course objectives
 
Students will be able to:
 
	
	
Effectively communicate ideas and information to an audience
	
	
	
Compose persuasive speeches that contain clear points and supporting details
	
	
	
Present both prepared and improvised speeches