Daily exercises in word analysis, word building, and word use enable students to master correct diction and develop a sense of style. Questions like these have inspired some of the world's greatest literature. This course will combine readings with discussion of issues addressed in the literature such as democracy, national identity, expansionism and race. Texts will include essays, poetry, and short stories by major American authors. This course introduces students to types of speeches, methods of delivery, and qualities an audience looks for in a speaker and allows ample practice in both prepared and extemporaneous speaking.
Students deliver their own prepared speeches as the culmination of their work.
Building a speaker's confidence is the main goal of the course. Reading and Study Skills Effective study techniques, reading comprehension, and pace are stressed. This course is designed for those who enjoy writing poetry and those who are interested in trying their hand at this form of creative writing. Students will be encouraged to examine both their own poetry and that of their classmates each day. The writing of class members constitutes the primary text for this course.