Recently I did a persuasive speech on voluntary euthanasia. The main reason I choose this topic was to raise awareness with my audience the importance behind supporting the legalization of voluntary euthanasia. I feel that I was able to achieve my purpose for the most part. I felt that my attention getter was effective in capturing my audience attention t listen to what I had to say. I was still a little nervous standing in front of the class, however, I felt that I was my most comfortable when giving this speech as apposed to my other two speeches. If I had to do it all over again, I would probably include some recent cases involving voluntary euthanasia. I feel by having these cases to reference to might have helped me to persuade my audience more to understanding the importance of being able to make the decisions to die instead of suffering or living in a vegetation state. Nobody wants to think of him or herself as dieing, but unfortunately it is a fact and it can happen to anybody at any time.
My persuasive speech differed from my last speech, which was an informative speech in a crucial way I now can see. During my informative speech, I had more facts and information to share with my audience, and I had utilized my entire time allotted for the speech. During my persuasive speech, even though I had done extensive research, I had a hard time organizing all my ideas and information, therefore, not providing much fact or information to help support my position on voluntary euthanasia. In addition, because I felt more comfortable during my persuasive speech, I was able to maintain eye contact with the audience a lot more and better than what I had done during my informative speech. I would have to rate my eye contact with a nine. I do not feel that I had done anything distracting during my persuasive speech and I could be wrong but from what I reviewed, nothing stands out to me.
Based on my performance in regards to body language and eye contact, I would give myself a B. I was not fidgeting or playing with my hands behind my back and even better, I was not cracking my knuckles, which is a bad nervous habit I have. I thought my eye contact was great and my hand gestures were good. In regards to the presentation of my speech I would have to give myself a C only because my visual aid was not great, in fact, it was an after thought when I remembered that I had to have at least one visual aid for my speech. Another flaw in my presentation was the lack of facts I could have shared with the audience to better persuade them to understand my position and in addition to the lack of facts, I forgot one of my main points while I was speaking. I cannot expect my audience to remember important details of my speech when I cannot remember them myself. It is because of this reason I feel I did better with my informative speech than with my persuasive speech. I had a lot of information I was able to share with my audience and I did not forget any of my main points or important information in regards to my informative topic.
Even though I had only verbally cited two sources, I did inform my audience that the research material I used could be found in the database CQ Researcher which has all the full articles I referenced to in order to try to put some facts and information together for my speech. Should any of the people in the audience get curious and want to learn more about what voluntary euthanasia is they will be able to find all the information they need in the CQ Researcher database.
It has been a long semester and a learning process as well. Preparing and giving a speech is never easy, at least not for me. This semester I gave three speeches and I would have to say I performed my best during my second speech. I base my decision on the grade I received for my second speech. Even though I might have gotten my best grade doing my informative speech, I do have to comment that I did have good qualities in all speeches that I did not consistently show in every speech.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Posting #3 12/7 - 12/13
Good Afternoon,
I will be taking the relaxing breathing techniques that were introduced to us at the beginning of the book. I think these techniques can not only be used when having to give a speech, but can also be used when going to an interview or any other situation you might feel a little anxiety over. Another thing I am going to be taking is the tips given on how to effectively use digital media. In my job, I do encounter many times a presentation is needed. Therefore, this will help me to use PowerPoint slides or any other type of digital media in an effective way to get my points across without distracting the audience from what the main point of my presentation is.
I will be taking the relaxing breathing techniques that were introduced to us at the beginning of the book. I think these techniques can not only be used when having to give a speech, but can also be used when going to an interview or any other situation you might feel a little anxiety over. Another thing I am going to be taking is the tips given on how to effectively use digital media. In my job, I do encounter many times a presentation is needed. Therefore, this will help me to use PowerPoint slides or any other type of digital media in an effective way to get my points across without distracting the audience from what the main point of my presentation is.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Posting #2 12/7 - 12/13
Good Afternoon,
I have to say that the informative speech was my favorite speech to do. The demonstrative speech on how to make macaroni salad was not that fun because there was not any research information to use so it was difficult to put together. When preparing for the persuasive speech, even though there was extensive research material available, it was hard for me to do. I did not anticipate running into the problem I did and by then, it was too late to switch topics and start over. It was hard for me because of the personal experience involving my grandma and I am still dealing with losing her. I had a fun time doing the informative speech because it is a tradition that is fun to get involved in and it is part of my culture. While I was researching, I learned a lot more about the origin of the tradition than I had known.
I have to say that the informative speech was my favorite speech to do. The demonstrative speech on how to make macaroni salad was not that fun because there was not any research information to use so it was difficult to put together. When preparing for the persuasive speech, even though there was extensive research material available, it was hard for me to do. I did not anticipate running into the problem I did and by then, it was too late to switch topics and start over. It was hard for me because of the personal experience involving my grandma and I am still dealing with losing her. I had a fun time doing the informative speech because it is a tradition that is fun to get involved in and it is part of my culture. While I was researching, I learned a lot more about the origin of the tradition than I had known.
Posting #1 12/7 - 12/13
Good Morning,
Once concept I thought was the most helpful was the section about addressing difference audience types. This concept will not only help me when preparing to give a speech, but will also help me when I have to do training sessions at work. It is important that when ever you are going to be addressing a group of people that you consider who you might be speaking to. For me, this would mainly apply to training. I need to consider there are different styles and ways that people learn. Therefore, when I have to do a training session, I need to try to incorporate the different styles of learning that may apply to my audience.
Once concept I thought was the most helpful was the section about addressing difference audience types. This concept will not only help me when preparing to give a speech, but will also help me when I have to do training sessions at work. It is important that when ever you are going to be addressing a group of people that you consider who you might be speaking to. For me, this would mainly apply to training. I need to consider there are different styles and ways that people learn. Therefore, when I have to do a training session, I need to try to incorporate the different styles of learning that may apply to my audience.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Posting #3 11/16- 11/22
Good Afternoon,
I found it interesting that my public speaking book had a chapter about arguments and some of the terms were familiar to me. This is only because I am also taking a critical thinking class this semester and we learned about deductive & inductive arguments and proving their validity. It is actually quite boring but also interesting in weird way. I find it interesting that two different classes I am taking have some of the same lessons. Another interesting thing I say was the section about fallacies. I have also just spent a few weeks in my critical thinking class about different fallacies that people do. Therefore, when I read the fallacies mentioned in the public speaking book, it was not new information to me because I already learned about them in my other class.
I found it interesting that my public speaking book had a chapter about arguments and some of the terms were familiar to me. This is only because I am also taking a critical thinking class this semester and we learned about deductive & inductive arguments and proving their validity. It is actually quite boring but also interesting in weird way. I find it interesting that two different classes I am taking have some of the same lessons. Another interesting thing I say was the section about fallacies. I have also just spent a few weeks in my critical thinking class about different fallacies that people do. Therefore, when I read the fallacies mentioned in the public speaking book, it was not new information to me because I already learned about them in my other class.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Posting #2 11/16- 11/22
Good Morning,
I am not one to care if somebody shares my point of view or not. I will however try to persuade somebody to accept a reasoning only if it is because I want them to do something for me or with me. It does not really matter to me if they do not agree with me, it only matters that they give in and do what I want. I used to convince some of my friends to cut school with me. It did take some persuading to convince them why they should risk being caught or getting in trouble just to skip school with me. One of the ways I would get them to go along is called circular reasoning. I said the same thing repeatedly but in different ways, which would eventually confuse them and they would end up just giving up trying to understand and skip school with me.
I am not one to care if somebody shares my point of view or not. I will however try to persuade somebody to accept a reasoning only if it is because I want them to do something for me or with me. It does not really matter to me if they do not agree with me, it only matters that they give in and do what I want. I used to convince some of my friends to cut school with me. It did take some persuading to convince them why they should risk being caught or getting in trouble just to skip school with me. One of the ways I would get them to go along is called circular reasoning. I said the same thing repeatedly but in different ways, which would eventually confuse them and they would end up just giving up trying to understand and skip school with me.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Posting #1 11/16- 11/22
Good Morning,
I found both arguments of pro and con schooling interesting. During the pro speech, the speaker mentioned violence in the public school, and how home schooling could help protect your child from the violence. I do agree there is violence in public schools having witnessed a friend being stabbed on campus during my sophomore year of high school. However, shielding your child from violence in my opinion is not possible and not beneficial for them. Violence is not just contained in schools, but is very much part of our society outside school walls. I believe people need to grow up knowing how to defend themselves if need be, so sheltering your child from violence will not help them learn how to survive in the real word once they have grown up.
During the con speech, the speaker mentioned the fact that parents are not better qualified to teach their child than a credential teacher in a public or private school. I agree with this statement based on my own personal experience. Had my parents’ home schooled me, my education would have been limited. I have surpassed the level education that my parents received themselves, and they are not qualified to teach me anything above what they only know. That is what professors and teachers are for; to help those of us who excel in education, and they are a lot more patient than any parent is when it comes to teaching something step by step to a student who may need the extra help.
I found both arguments of pro and con schooling interesting. During the pro speech, the speaker mentioned violence in the public school, and how home schooling could help protect your child from the violence. I do agree there is violence in public schools having witnessed a friend being stabbed on campus during my sophomore year of high school. However, shielding your child from violence in my opinion is not possible and not beneficial for them. Violence is not just contained in schools, but is very much part of our society outside school walls. I believe people need to grow up knowing how to defend themselves if need be, so sheltering your child from violence will not help them learn how to survive in the real word once they have grown up.
During the con speech, the speaker mentioned the fact that parents are not better qualified to teach their child than a credential teacher in a public or private school. I agree with this statement based on my own personal experience. Had my parents’ home schooled me, my education would have been limited. I have surpassed the level education that my parents received themselves, and they are not qualified to teach me anything above what they only know. That is what professors and teachers are for; to help those of us who excel in education, and they are a lot more patient than any parent is when it comes to teaching something step by step to a student who may need the extra help.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Posting #3 11/9-11/15
Good Morning,
While reading chapter 14, I learned there are different types of persuasive speeches, question of facts, question of value, and question of policy. I guess I should start by figuring out which speech my topic falls into and start there. I am drawing a complete blank and there is not a lot of time left to prepare. Good thing is the book is very descriptive and has examples of the different outlines to help guide me through my topic. The chapter also talked about different types of audience. Which are you? I hope that you are not a hostile audience. Good luck to everybody.
While reading chapter 14, I learned there are different types of persuasive speeches, question of facts, question of value, and question of policy. I guess I should start by figuring out which speech my topic falls into and start there. I am drawing a complete blank and there is not a lot of time left to prepare. Good thing is the book is very descriptive and has examples of the different outlines to help guide me through my topic. The chapter also talked about different types of audience. Which are you? I hope that you are not a hostile audience. Good luck to everybody.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Posting #2 11/9- 11/15
Good Morning,
Responding to the second posting is going to be hard. I am not exaggerating when I say I do not attend speeches and do not have any plans to attend any in the future. I am not in a position to be able to give examples persuasive messages I have received; unless you can count the ones I get from my son when he is trying to convince me to buy him something he wants. In addition to taking this class, I am also taking critical thinking and from this class have learned to recognize certain fallacies that speakers may use when trying to stake a claim. I think to be a more critical consumer; you need to have a lot of basic common sense. If you believe everything, somebody is going to tell you, then you kind of set yourself up to always get duped.
Responding to the second posting is going to be hard. I am not exaggerating when I say I do not attend speeches and do not have any plans to attend any in the future. I am not in a position to be able to give examples persuasive messages I have received; unless you can count the ones I get from my son when he is trying to convince me to buy him something he wants. In addition to taking this class, I am also taking critical thinking and from this class have learned to recognize certain fallacies that speakers may use when trying to stake a claim. I think to be a more critical consumer; you need to have a lot of basic common sense. If you believe everything, somebody is going to tell you, then you kind of set yourself up to always get duped.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Posting #1 11/9 - 11/15
Good Morning,
The progress of my speech to be honest is coming slow. It is easier for me to write an argumentive paper than to try to persuade somebody to see things my way. I am doing my speech on voluntary euthanasia, also known as assisted suicide. I am for it and I hope I am able to support the reasons why I am for it. As for my main points, I have not really made a decision as to what they might be. I drafted some possibilities, which are some facts about it, some background information, and personal testimony. I have done some research in databases to get information but I feel I still have a long way to go for such a short time still left. I might start my speech with background information and end it with my personal testimony. I have no clue how I am going to persuade the audience, and since I have not done the reading yet, I cannot say anything today about the points it might give.
The progress of my speech to be honest is coming slow. It is easier for me to write an argumentive paper than to try to persuade somebody to see things my way. I am doing my speech on voluntary euthanasia, also known as assisted suicide. I am for it and I hope I am able to support the reasons why I am for it. As for my main points, I have not really made a decision as to what they might be. I drafted some possibilities, which are some facts about it, some background information, and personal testimony. I have done some research in databases to get information but I feel I still have a long way to go for such a short time still left. I might start my speech with background information and end it with my personal testimony. I have no clue how I am going to persuade the audience, and since I have not done the reading yet, I cannot say anything today about the points it might give.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Posting #3 11/2-11/8
Good Afternoon!
In chapter 12, the topic about selecting a delivery method for your speech caught my attention. It surprised me there existed actual methods of delivering speeches and each had its own description. The method of impromptu, or speaking with out preparation, took me by surprise. I always thought somebody who did not practice there speech or prepare for it was just not doing their work. I had no idea people actually did this on purpose to better themselves at being able to think and speak at the drop of a dime. I can honestly say that when I choose the impromptu delivery method, it is not because I am trying to sharpen my on the spot skills; it is simple me just being lazy and probably procrastinated and did not have time to practice or prepare.
In chapter 12, the topic about selecting a delivery method for your speech caught my attention. It surprised me there existed actual methods of delivering speeches and each had its own description. The method of impromptu, or speaking with out preparation, took me by surprise. I always thought somebody who did not practice there speech or prepare for it was just not doing their work. I had no idea people actually did this on purpose to better themselves at being able to think and speak at the drop of a dime. I can honestly say that when I choose the impromptu delivery method, it is not because I am trying to sharpen my on the spot skills; it is simple me just being lazy and probably procrastinated and did not have time to practice or prepare.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Posting #2 11/2-11/8
Good Morning,
After reading a few of those comments left on fliker, I could not help but roll my eyes. To suggest that we should ban words to me is an extreme take on sexist language. It is all in the context the word is used. The book talks about sexist language being used in a speech can make some of the audience feel left out. For example, if the speaker is always using “man” kind or “He”, some of the women in the audience might feel like the speaker is not acknowledging the presence of women in their audience. Me personally, I do not read too much into what words the speaker is saying, but what facts the speaker is giving in their speech. I myself generalize when I speak; unless I am specifically speaking about a person then I use the gender appropriate language. You cannot stop people from being overly sensitive and overly reacting. I just roll my eyes at them to have something so trivial bother them that much is stupid. The only way I see sexist language being hurtful or derogatory, is if a person is actually addressing people and purposefully using the sexist language to demean them.
After reading a few of those comments left on fliker, I could not help but roll my eyes. To suggest that we should ban words to me is an extreme take on sexist language. It is all in the context the word is used. The book talks about sexist language being used in a speech can make some of the audience feel left out. For example, if the speaker is always using “man” kind or “He”, some of the women in the audience might feel like the speaker is not acknowledging the presence of women in their audience. Me personally, I do not read too much into what words the speaker is saying, but what facts the speaker is giving in their speech. I myself generalize when I speak; unless I am specifically speaking about a person then I use the gender appropriate language. You cannot stop people from being overly sensitive and overly reacting. I just roll my eyes at them to have something so trivial bother them that much is stupid. The only way I see sexist language being hurtful or derogatory, is if a person is actually addressing people and purposefully using the sexist language to demean them.
Monday, November 3, 2008
posting #1 11/2- 11/8
Good Morning,
From watching the speech buddies, I found the information about audience centered language helpful. When giving a speech it is important, the audience feels you are addressing them directly and not like you are uninterested in the audience. You want to make sure you do not use fancy vocabulary. Although it may sound nice using big words, it does not mean everybody in your audience will understand the meaning of those words and you could soon lose your audience if they are not able to understand what you are saying. I hope during my next speech I am able to incorporate these tips and my audience feels like I am directing my speech toward them instead of just doing an assignment.
From watching the speech buddies, I found the information about audience centered language helpful. When giving a speech it is important, the audience feels you are addressing them directly and not like you are uninterested in the audience. You want to make sure you do not use fancy vocabulary. Although it may sound nice using big words, it does not mean everybody in your audience will understand the meaning of those words and you could soon lose your audience if they are not able to understand what you are saying. I hope during my next speech I am able to incorporate these tips and my audience feels like I am directing my speech toward them instead of just doing an assignment.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Posting #3 10/26- 11/1
Good Afternoon,
The information I found useful in the reading were the tips and guidelines for using digital slides. Using the right amount of digital slides can enhance your speech. Using to many or cluttering your slides with too much information can hinder the effect your speech will have on your audience. If you have too many slides or even if you have too many bullet points on one slide, you could expect your audience to be reading during most of your speech instead of actively listening to what you are actually saying. It is also important the words on your slides can be read from the back of the room, so the lettering needs to be a larger font.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Self Evaluation Assignment #2
I feel I fairly achieved the purpose of my speech. There was some information I did omit out. I was still a little nervous being in front of the class so my mind rather forgot other points I had planned to state. If I had to do it all over again, I would have tried to find more pictures showing the celebration of my topic. I admit I did not work to hard on my media presentation; I had been focused more on the speech part. Honestly, I have no clue what I am going to do to improve the content of my next speech. I will take advantage that we have a whole month before our next speech is delivered. In addition, the topic I have chosen I do have a personal experience that I intend to incorporate in my speech. My goal is to be able to speak clearly and have an enthusiastic element in it as well. I hope that during my next speech my confidence will be clear.
There were a few differences from this speech and from the first speech, I did in class. I felt less anxiety going into my second speech, which helped a lot and made a big difference. During my first speech my mind so discombobulated, my time ended up being short of what the time requirement was for the first speech. During my second speech, although my mind still tried to panic, I was able to present my second speech within the required time. The bad thing I did notice was that my eye contact was not as good as it had been during my first speech. In addition, I noticed the tone in my voice was not consistently clear and sort of faded in some spots. Overall, I think I did much better than I did in my first speech. Of course, there is still a lot of room and things that can and need to be improved on for my next speech. I would rate my eye contact a five. I was distracted myself trying to operate my PowerPoint slides while being able to maintain my eye contact with the audience. I am sure a quick glance down would be no problem, but I seemed to stare at the picture on my slide for longer than necessary. For an overall grade, I would give my self a C+. Even though my points were all covered, the inconsistence in my voice took away from my confidence and my eye contact should have been a lot better. Even though I did verbally cite all four of my sources, I could have done a better job. I was not sure how to verbally cite the sources and I rather hesitated when doing so. I do feel this speech was better done than my first speech. My topic was better researched than my first topic, and I was able to present all my points in the time allotted, as opposed to my first speech, I did not make all my points in addition to cutting my speech well below the required time.
There were a few differences from this speech and from the first speech, I did in class. I felt less anxiety going into my second speech, which helped a lot and made a big difference. During my first speech my mind so discombobulated, my time ended up being short of what the time requirement was for the first speech. During my second speech, although my mind still tried to panic, I was able to present my second speech within the required time. The bad thing I did notice was that my eye contact was not as good as it had been during my first speech. In addition, I noticed the tone in my voice was not consistently clear and sort of faded in some spots. Overall, I think I did much better than I did in my first speech. Of course, there is still a lot of room and things that can and need to be improved on for my next speech. I would rate my eye contact a five. I was distracted myself trying to operate my PowerPoint slides while being able to maintain my eye contact with the audience. I am sure a quick glance down would be no problem, but I seemed to stare at the picture on my slide for longer than necessary. For an overall grade, I would give my self a C+. Even though my points were all covered, the inconsistence in my voice took away from my confidence and my eye contact should have been a lot better. Even though I did verbally cite all four of my sources, I could have done a better job. I was not sure how to verbally cite the sources and I rather hesitated when doing so. I do feel this speech was better done than my first speech. My topic was better researched than my first topic, and I was able to present all my points in the time allotted, as opposed to my first speech, I did not make all my points in addition to cutting my speech well below the required time.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Posting # 2 10/26-11/1
Good Afternoon,
I can’t think of any public speaking events I have gone to ever. Giving speeches and hearing speeches are not of interest to me. The closest thing I can come up with is the last training session I had at work. Although I did help the trainer who was presenting the material with the procedures manual, there really wasn’t much I stood to gain since I already knew the procedure. However, the other people I work with seemed to find the PowerPoint slides helpful in explaining what steps needed to be taken and in what order they needed to done in. The presentation slides that were used were screen shots of each step, to ensure if the worker was taking the right steps. Most people I know find visual aids that accompany written or verbal directions, help them to obtain and learn easier.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Posting #1 10/26- 11/1
Good Morning,
The message in both videos was using media presentations effectively and not using them to present your speech. The slides used during your speech should only compliment what you are saying and provide more credibility to your speech. Another important factor is how your slides are formatted. It is important the audience can read what is on your slide and important you only have key information. Too much information may confuse or distract the audience from your main point. In my opinion, less can be more at some times and it is a determination that the speaker has to consider carefully when using media presentation.
The message in both videos was using media presentations effectively and not using them to present your speech. The slides used during your speech should only compliment what you are saying and provide more credibility to your speech. Another important factor is how your slides are formatted. It is important the audience can read what is on your slide and important you only have key information. Too much information may confuse or distract the audience from your main point. In my opinion, less can be more at some times and it is a determination that the speaker has to consider carefully when using media presentation.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Posting #3 10/12 - 10/18
Good Afternoon,
An interesting point I read in chapter 13 was about keeping your opinions out of an informative speech. It is really easy to start throwing in our own personal opinions and expressing our own thoughts, but by doing so we get start to get away from the main purpose of our speech; that is to inform our audience about our topic. After thinking about what this could mean, I can to the conclusion when doing informative speeches; we may want to pick a topic that really does not call for our opinion. As long as we stay with just the facts of what our topic is, we should be able to avoid putting our two cents in. We will be able to speak our side of the argument when we do our persuasion speech.
See you all next week.
An interesting point I read in chapter 13 was about keeping your opinions out of an informative speech. It is really easy to start throwing in our own personal opinions and expressing our own thoughts, but by doing so we get start to get away from the main purpose of our speech; that is to inform our audience about our topic. After thinking about what this could mean, I can to the conclusion when doing informative speeches; we may want to pick a topic that really does not call for our opinion. As long as we stay with just the facts of what our topic is, we should be able to avoid putting our two cents in. We will be able to speak our side of the argument when we do our persuasion speech.
See you all next week.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Posting #2 10/12- 10/18
Good Morning,
According to the book, the introduction of your speech should include an attention getter, indicate the purpose and thesis of your speech, establish credibility, and preview your main points. Your conclusion should include a review of your main points, restatement of your thesis, and provide closure to your speech. I plan to try to incorporate these factors in my speech. I am still working out how I plan to do so, but I hope that I can figure it out by this Friday. I should probably start with what my purpose is going to be and come up with my thesis. Once I am able to get those down, the other factors I need to make a successful speech I hope will fall into place.
According to the book, the introduction of your speech should include an attention getter, indicate the purpose and thesis of your speech, establish credibility, and preview your main points. Your conclusion should include a review of your main points, restatement of your thesis, and provide closure to your speech. I plan to try to incorporate these factors in my speech. I am still working out how I plan to do so, but I hope that I can figure it out by this Friday. I should probably start with what my purpose is going to be and come up with my thesis. Once I am able to get those down, the other factors I need to make a successful speech I hope will fall into place.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Posting #1 10/12 -10/18
Good Afternoon everybody,
Interactive videos 9.1 & 9.2 had some good points about making you introduction & conclusion strong. It also talked about how an attention getter is very important when starting your speech. Videos 13.1A & B, I though were good speeches. Both people seemed confident and had a continuous flow while speaking. After watching the “use it” video, she was able to get my attention, because at first I had no clue what she was talking about, so I found myself intently listening in order to figure out what she was saying. I noticed the way she used her index cards was differently than the other two speeches, she seemed to look down a lot, while the other speech buddies kept constant eye contact & only referred to their index cards when quoting somebody. I’m hoping I am able to develop a strong introduction and conclusion when giving my next speech. Hopefully I can come up with a good attention getter.
See you all soon.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Posting #3 10/5 - 10/11
Good Morning Everybody,
When I first started reading chapter 8, I was intrigued how the book described the parts of a speech. The first thing I realized was it was much like putting an essay together. Putting an essay together, I can do, but putting a speech together is tricky for me. After actually seeing the diagram 8.1, I found myself a little more relaxed for this next coming speech. As long as I attack the speech with the mindset of putting an essay together, I think I might just be able to pull off putting my speech together. Hope everybody has a great weekend.
When I first started reading chapter 8, I was intrigued how the book described the parts of a speech. The first thing I realized was it was much like putting an essay together. Putting an essay together, I can do, but putting a speech together is tricky for me. After actually seeing the diagram 8.1, I found myself a little more relaxed for this next coming speech. As long as I attack the speech with the mindset of putting an essay together, I think I might just be able to pull off putting my speech together. Hope everybody has a great weekend.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Posting #2 10/5-10/11
Good Afternoon everybody,
I find facts and stats are good when just trying to inform your audience about your topic. Especially if the purpose of the speech is not to persuade me, I would prefer to stick with the facts. In a persuasive speech, some facts or stats would be appropriate. If too many facts or stats are in either an informative or a persuasive speech, the speech might then seem to turn into an argument debate. At least that is how I see it. Another problem that may occur when using to many facts or stats in a speech, the audience may forget the speaker’s main point while trying to digest all the different facts and stats that are used.
I find facts and stats are good when just trying to inform your audience about your topic. Especially if the purpose of the speech is not to persuade me, I would prefer to stick with the facts. In a persuasive speech, some facts or stats would be appropriate. If too many facts or stats are in either an informative or a persuasive speech, the speech might then seem to turn into an argument debate. At least that is how I see it. Another problem that may occur when using to many facts or stats in a speech, the audience may forget the speaker’s main point while trying to digest all the different facts and stats that are used.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Week 10/5-10/11 post #1
Good Morning,
The information from the speech buddies seemed to be useful information. It was a lot for me to take in, as I had no idea there were so many different types of organizational pattern or transitions to consider when preparing for a speech. I cannot say I learned anything from watching these videos. Maybe I am just bias but the last time I watched the videos and tried their suggestions on how to ease anxiety, none of it worked for me. After I read little more of the chapters in the book, I will watch the videos again and see if I was able to pick up anything else, I might have missed this go around. I hope things are going better for everybody else.
Have a great week.
The information from the speech buddies seemed to be useful information. It was a lot for me to take in, as I had no idea there were so many different types of organizational pattern or transitions to consider when preparing for a speech. I cannot say I learned anything from watching these videos. Maybe I am just bias but the last time I watched the videos and tried their suggestions on how to ease anxiety, none of it worked for me. After I read little more of the chapters in the book, I will watch the videos again and see if I was able to pick up anything else, I might have missed this go around. I hope things are going better for everybody else.
Have a great week.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Self Evaluation Assignment #1
My first speech was a disappointment to myself. I did not achieve what I was hoping, maybe because I was not that clear about what I wanted other than just demonstrating how to make macaroni salad. I tried to use some of those breathing techniques we read in our book and watched from the videos. To my disappointment none of it worked, my anxiety was far greater than can be controlled. I have concluded that maybe a sedative would work better than trying to take deep breaths. I did not feel confident in delivering my speech, I could hear the speech I wanted to say in my head but my thoughts became so incoherent, it all went out the window and down the street. I am not quite sure as to what I plan to do for the next speech. Seeing that none of the other suggested techniques work. If I had to do it all over again, I would probably pick another subject, one that could be better researched.
My goal for my next speech will be to pick a topic that I will be able to research better. There was not much available to about making macaroni salad or the history of it. Perhaps a topic with more history background information available to research will give me more confidence and more information to share in my speech. I am not sure what other preparations to make to calm my nerves when it will be time for me to deliver my speech. I am hoping after meeting everybody in class and being more familiar with everybody, that it will help calm my nerves a bit since you all will not complete strangers anymore.
After watching my video, I could tell I was not as prepared as I tried to be. From the moment the first sentence left my mouth, I was saying my information the way I had been practicing all week. Between my nerves and then starting my speech as intended, It completely through me off and all my thoughts became incoherent and found myself trying to pull it back together while avoiding a bunch of mumbling which only worked a little. At least I kept some type of eye contact; unfortunately, this just made it worse for me, as I started to think how ridiculous I must have looked to everybody that was staring back at me. Thank you for not laughing. Overall I would have to rate my eye contact at five.
I only mentioned one source citation in what little speech I delivered. As I am writing this, I am thinking maybe I was trying to research in the wrong area, I was not asking the right questions therefore I was not researching the right answers. I would have given myself an F for the quality of my speech. I tend to grade myself harder because I know I could have done so much better. I could have at least rambled on to use up the 4-5 minutes allowed for the speech, and avoided a deduction regarding that area. After watching the video, I have concluded I am going to have to come up with a very creative way to get over my nerves and be ready to present a redemption speech.
My goal for my next speech will be to pick a topic that I will be able to research better. There was not much available to about making macaroni salad or the history of it. Perhaps a topic with more history background information available to research will give me more confidence and more information to share in my speech. I am not sure what other preparations to make to calm my nerves when it will be time for me to deliver my speech. I am hoping after meeting everybody in class and being more familiar with everybody, that it will help calm my nerves a bit since you all will not complete strangers anymore.
After watching my video, I could tell I was not as prepared as I tried to be. From the moment the first sentence left my mouth, I was saying my information the way I had been practicing all week. Between my nerves and then starting my speech as intended, It completely through me off and all my thoughts became incoherent and found myself trying to pull it back together while avoiding a bunch of mumbling which only worked a little. At least I kept some type of eye contact; unfortunately, this just made it worse for me, as I started to think how ridiculous I must have looked to everybody that was staring back at me. Thank you for not laughing. Overall I would have to rate my eye contact at five.
I only mentioned one source citation in what little speech I delivered. As I am writing this, I am thinking maybe I was trying to research in the wrong area, I was not asking the right questions therefore I was not researching the right answers. I would have given myself an F for the quality of my speech. I tend to grade myself harder because I know I could have done so much better. I could have at least rambled on to use up the 4-5 minutes allowed for the speech, and avoided a deduction regarding that area. After watching the video, I have concluded I am going to have to come up with a very creative way to get over my nerves and be ready to present a redemption speech.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Posting #3 9/14-9-20
videos:
Good Morning,
At the beginning of the drinking speech, the performance of acting as he was throwing up caught me attention. It made me wonder what in the world was he doing, so I found myself trying to pay close attention; at first. As he continued with his speech the long pauses between sentences sometimes words was irritating me & I lost interest very quick & was not paying attention to anything he said. His voice also seems monotone to me as well. One thing I took away from that speech was to make sure when it is my turn to speak, that I speak with a continuous flow; but not to fast, I do tend to speak fast.
I am not sure if anybody else had this problem, but when I went to watch the lighting speech, it was only 38 seconds long. I was only able to hear some of her introduction. It sounded like it could have been interesting, I had no idea there was a thing called light pollution.
Good Morning,
At the beginning of the drinking speech, the performance of acting as he was throwing up caught me attention. It made me wonder what in the world was he doing, so I found myself trying to pay close attention; at first. As he continued with his speech the long pauses between sentences sometimes words was irritating me & I lost interest very quick & was not paying attention to anything he said. His voice also seems monotone to me as well. One thing I took away from that speech was to make sure when it is my turn to speak, that I speak with a continuous flow; but not to fast, I do tend to speak fast.
I am not sure if anybody else had this problem, but when I went to watch the lighting speech, it was only 38 seconds long. I was only able to hear some of her introduction. It sounded like it could have been interesting, I had no idea there was a thing called light pollution.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Posting #2 9/14-9/20
Good Morning,
Something that caught my eye while reading chapter 5 was the part about adapting to the stetting. It sounds like a good idea to research your location and to feel comfortable giving your speech. I can see where it might work for some people and help others; however, I find my fear isn’t where I am going to give my speech, my fear is knowing there will be people there I do not know. The unfamiliarity of a location is not what has me shaking in my boots; it is the people. A perfect speech for me would be to give it in an empty room. I do like to know the outlay of the room I would be giving a speech, to know where all the exits are in case I have to dart out in an unexpected panic. ; )
Something that caught my eye while reading chapter 5 was the part about adapting to the stetting. It sounds like a good idea to research your location and to feel comfortable giving your speech. I can see where it might work for some people and help others; however, I find my fear isn’t where I am going to give my speech, my fear is knowing there will be people there I do not know. The unfamiliarity of a location is not what has me shaking in my boots; it is the people. A perfect speech for me would be to give it in an empty room. I do like to know the outlay of the room I would be giving a speech, to know where all the exits are in case I have to dart out in an unexpected panic. ; )
Monday, September 15, 2008
Posting #1 9/14- 9/20
Good Morning Everybody,
Let us discuss the importance of audience analysis, which I know nothing about. I could see how tailoring your speech to your specific audience can make them more interested in what you have to say. If the audience feels that the message in your speech is just for them, it might make them feel important and more likely to listen to what you are saying. I can say from personal experience, if I feel somebody is saying something that does not pertain to me, I tend to become uninterested and tune out whatever the person is saying.
After reading about how a speaker should also try to research his audience, I do not really like the idea of having to give speeches. I am not really a research person, and all the work and effort having to put into delivering a speech, to me is exhausting.
More power to those people who enjoy and do a good job at research and are able to deliver a great speech.
Let us discuss the importance of audience analysis, which I know nothing about. I could see how tailoring your speech to your specific audience can make them more interested in what you have to say. If the audience feels that the message in your speech is just for them, it might make them feel important and more likely to listen to what you are saying. I can say from personal experience, if I feel somebody is saying something that does not pertain to me, I tend to become uninterested and tune out whatever the person is saying.
After reading about how a speaker should also try to research his audience, I do not really like the idea of having to give speeches. I am not really a research person, and all the work and effort having to put into delivering a speech, to me is exhausting.
More power to those people who enjoy and do a good job at research and are able to deliver a great speech.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Psoting #3 9/7-9/13
Good Morning,
The one thing that caught my attention in chapter 6 was the information about the different web search engines. I know that probably seems weird, but honestly I had no idea there were so many different options available when trying to do research on-line. I thought there were only Google and Yahoo. Shows how much I know.
I also was shocked to see that there were not just search engines, but also these other types like metasearch engines, web directories, and it talked about the deep web. I know this may seem very simple minded of me, but I just assumed Google was good enough. I know, you should never assume and always do your research.
I will admit it I am just lazy sometimes.
The one thing that caught my attention in chapter 6 was the information about the different web search engines. I know that probably seems weird, but honestly I had no idea there were so many different options available when trying to do research on-line. I thought there were only Google and Yahoo. Shows how much I know.
I also was shocked to see that there were not just search engines, but also these other types like metasearch engines, web directories, and it talked about the deep web. I know this may seem very simple minded of me, but I just assumed Google was good enough. I know, you should never assume and always do your research.
I will admit it I am just lazy sometimes.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Posting #2 week 9/7-9/13
Update on speech!
Good Morning,
I am going to be doing my demo speech on “How to Make a Macaroni Salad”. I know it is easy to throw a bunch of stuff together, but I have been brainstorming to come up with a way to try to make it interesting for everybody. I really do not want to bore anybody with noodles and mayonnaise. I have started my outline to help me figure out how I am going to deliver my speech. One thing I will share; I plan to bring cups and eating utensils so if anybody in class wants to eat some; they can. Do not worry; I will be keeping everything in the refrigerator here at my work until it is time to meet in class.
Is anybody allergic to mustard, celery, olives or carrots?
See you all in two weeks!
Good Morning,
I am going to be doing my demo speech on “How to Make a Macaroni Salad”. I know it is easy to throw a bunch of stuff together, but I have been brainstorming to come up with a way to try to make it interesting for everybody. I really do not want to bore anybody with noodles and mayonnaise. I have started my outline to help me figure out how I am going to deliver my speech. One thing I will share; I plan to bring cups and eating utensils so if anybody in class wants to eat some; they can. Do not worry; I will be keeping everything in the refrigerator here at my work until it is time to meet in class.
Is anybody allergic to mustard, celery, olives or carrots?
See you all in two weeks!
Monday, September 8, 2008
Class Discussion 9/7-9/13
What experience do you have with conducting research interviews?
Good Morning Everybody,
To answer this question, I have no experience at conducting research interviews. In my English 1A class, my professor ended up canceling our research paper, so I did not have to do one. My English 1B professor had us do a research paper on the book, The Metamorphosis, and he provided all the reference information. Therefore, I can honestly say, the last time I did a research paper was 10 years ago when I was in high school.
I am currently taking English 1C (Critical Thinking) along with this class. I do not think I can be that lucky and take a third English class without having to do a research paper.
Have a great day everybody!
Good Morning Everybody,
To answer this question, I have no experience at conducting research interviews. In my English 1A class, my professor ended up canceling our research paper, so I did not have to do one. My English 1B professor had us do a research paper on the book, The Metamorphosis, and he provided all the reference information. Therefore, I can honestly say, the last time I did a research paper was 10 years ago when I was in high school.
I am currently taking English 1C (Critical Thinking) along with this class. I do not think I can be that lucky and take a third English class without having to do a research paper.
Have a great day everybody!
Friday, September 5, 2008
Interactive Video
Good Afternoon Everybody,
In video 2.1, I did find the tips on the different breathing techniques helpful and plan to use them before I have to do my demonstration speech this month (Yikes!).
In video 2.2, the message I got out of it, was to let my confidence dominate my anxiety. I find that I am unable to visualize my location, but I can see myself standing in front of class acting as if I know what I am doing. ; ). The main point is to try to find a way to suppress our anxiety and to be able to control as much as possible.
In the video of Jessica, I found that in the beginning of her speech I was active listening, but when she went off on a tangent and starting telling her story; I lost interest in what she was saying. Although she was using the story to make a valid point in her speech, I found myself tuning in and out of the rest of her speech.
Hmm, now that I think about it, it could have just been because it was in the evening and I was tired from a long day of work.
See you all in a few weeks!
In video 2.1, I did find the tips on the different breathing techniques helpful and plan to use them before I have to do my demonstration speech this month (Yikes!).
In video 2.2, the message I got out of it, was to let my confidence dominate my anxiety. I find that I am unable to visualize my location, but I can see myself standing in front of class acting as if I know what I am doing. ; ). The main point is to try to find a way to suppress our anxiety and to be able to control as much as possible.
In the video of Jessica, I found that in the beginning of her speech I was active listening, but when she went off on a tangent and starting telling her story; I lost interest in what she was saying. Although she was using the story to make a valid point in her speech, I found myself tuning in and out of the rest of her speech.
Hmm, now that I think about it, it could have just been because it was in the evening and I was tired from a long day of work.
See you all in a few weeks!
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Posting #2
Good Morning Everybody,
As I was reading the assigned chapters, I did find the concept of relabeling interesting. I have heard before that when facing difficult times, as long as you tried to stay optimistic, the positive attitude will start to pay off. I never thought about applying the same idea to public speaking.
The message I got, was when we are feeling nervous and anxious before a speech, we should use these feelings to our advantage instead of letting the negative feelings turn into more anxiety.
We should say to ourselves how excited we are to be presenting our topic, instead of how nervous we are to be in front of the class.
Of course, this is always easier said than done. Have a great day everybody.
As I was reading the assigned chapters, I did find the concept of relabeling interesting. I have heard before that when facing difficult times, as long as you tried to stay optimistic, the positive attitude will start to pay off. I never thought about applying the same idea to public speaking.
The message I got, was when we are feeling nervous and anxious before a speech, we should use these feelings to our advantage instead of letting the negative feelings turn into more anxiety.
We should say to ourselves how excited we are to be presenting our topic, instead of how nervous we are to be in front of the class.
Of course, this is always easier said than done. Have a great day everybody.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Class Discussion 8/31- 9/6
Hello Everybody,
There are two reasons with public speaking that make me apprehensive. The first is unfamiliar faces, and the second reason has to do with setting and location.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Introduction
Hello Everyone,
My name is Tiana and I am completely new at blogging, so I may not be doing this right. I'm sure by the end of the semester I will have gotten the hang of it. Not only am I a student at San Jose State, but I also work in the Bursar Office on campus. I have one son who is 5 years old and just started kindergarten last week. Hopefully my blogs won't be too boring for anybody who may be reading this. ; )
The only public speaking experience I have is from work. I see students face to face on a daily basis to discuss issues they may be having with their account. My goal for this class is to be able to obtain at least a letter grad of B. I still get nervous when having to do presentations in front of others I don't really know well. Hopefully by the end of this class, I would have conquered my nerves, and will be able to feel comfortable giving presentations in front of both small and large groups.
Hope everybody has a great day!
My name is Tiana and I am completely new at blogging, so I may not be doing this right. I'm sure by the end of the semester I will have gotten the hang of it. Not only am I a student at San Jose State, but I also work in the Bursar Office on campus. I have one son who is 5 years old and just started kindergarten last week. Hopefully my blogs won't be too boring for anybody who may be reading this. ; )
The only public speaking experience I have is from work. I see students face to face on a daily basis to discuss issues they may be having with their account. My goal for this class is to be able to obtain at least a letter grad of B. I still get nervous when having to do presentations in front of others I don't really know well. Hopefully by the end of this class, I would have conquered my nerves, and will be able to feel comfortable giving presentations in front of both small and large groups.
Hope everybody has a great day!
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