What concept or concepts have I found most helpful in this class? well, I know this is kind of a cop-out answer, but I found everything to be useful. If I had to pick out specifics though, I would have to say that the chapter on organizational patterns and the chapter on reasoning stand out in my mind. I have come to the realization that without a good foundation you won't go anywhere. Each day seems to drive that point a little more home, and it is true in public speaking as well as the rest of life. Good organization in the preparation stages of your speech will make your life SO MUCH EASIER. All across the board, too.
I liked the section on reasoning because weak arguments do not a happy Emerald make. Whether you are writing or speaking, having a clear, sensible argument that is derived from solid evidence feels really damn good. Having the little table of fallacies was helpful, as well as having a better understanding of how to use different types of reasoning. I think I still need some work on proper deductive/inductive reasoning skills, but hey, it'll come in time.
And hooray for being done with out speeches! Does that feel good or what?!
YAY for being done! There was tons of info covered over this semester. I have a feeling that even if we don't realize it, we will be using a lot of what we learned in the future. I enjoyed all of your speeches this semester. You were always so enthusiastic about the topics you chose, and you always instantly had my attention. You always provided great information, had relevant visual aids. And you always had funny jokes, which I think makes everyone feel more comfortable. Organization is definitely key. I like how we stuck to a similar pattern all semester. Having an organized speech allows the information being presented to flow. And makes it easy for the audience to follow along.
ReplyDeleteI also think that everything was helpful. The organizational patterns made a lot of sense to me. Before, when I would give a speech, it would just be written out like dialogue or an essay first. There wasn't much structure. But you're right, a good foundation is the best start to any project. It gives a strong start and a good place to finish. It also helped me figure out where I wanted to go with some speeches. I'm really glad that this semester is over but I am happy to be taking some useful skills with me when I go. And maybe be a better public speaker than I was before.
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