Public Speaking

Directions

1. Think about an informative speech that you would like to present on a topic of your choice.
   
2. The speech can be for any context and any length, but the purpose must be to inform. See the list of example speech occasions for inspiration.
   
3. Download and answer each question in the the Unit 2 Touchstone Template based on the speech you are thinking of: Touchstone_2_Template.doc
   
4. Consider your audience, purpose, and thesis and complete Part 1 of the template.
   
5. Utilize your program resources, the internet or a local library to find three credible sources that are relevant to your speech and complete Part 2 of the template.
   
6. Read through your sources to identify five pieces of evidence that support your thesis and complete Part 3 of the template. Be sure to use at least three different types of sources (example, statistic, analogy, definition, visual, story, testimony).
   
7. Review the rubric to ensure that you understand how you will be evaluated. Ask a Sophia learning coach if you have any questions.
   
8. Review the checklist and requirements to ensure that your Touchstone is complete.
   
9. Submit your completed Unit 2 Touchstone Template on Sophia.
   

Touchstone Support Videos

Evaluating your Sources
Maintaining Relevance and Balance

Speech Occasions

Personal

• Demonstration presentation (showing how to do something)
• Product analysis

Academic

• Presenting academic work (paper, research, report)
• Present and explain original creative work

Community

• Sharing relevant information at a community gathering (PTA meeting, boy/girl scout convention, town hall, homeowner’s association, athletic league, school board meeting, etc.)
• Communicating a community initiative or policy

Business

• Presenting to staff (new initiatives, pep talks, announcements, etc.)
• Presenting to colleagues or peers (idea sharing, status updates, etc.)
• Presenting to superiors (project plan, project summary, etc.)

Submission checklist

_ I have completed all aspects of the template.
_ My answers demonstrate thoughtful consideration of each question.
_ I have selected sources that are credible and relevant.
_ I have selected five pieces of support that are relevant to my thesis.
_ I have selected three or more different kinds of support.
_ I have adhered to all of the requirements.
_ I have read through the rubric and I understand how my Touchstone will be evaluated.

Requirements

• All writing must be appropriate for an academic context
• Follow academic writing conventions (correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting)
• Composition must be original and written for this assignment; plagiarism of any kind is strictly prohibited
• Use a readable 11- or 12-point font
• Submission should include your name and the date
• Submit a single file only, including the answers to all questions
• Acceptable file formats include .doc and .docx.