Public Performance

Who should take this course? Include year, ability level, interest.

This course is open to juniors and seniors who have an interest in learning about the myriad communication activities associated with oral interpretation and forensics. Students will expand on the knowledge obtained during sophomore year in Speech Communication.

Course focus/umbrella questions:

How does creative oral expression influence an individual’s life experiences and interactions with others?

What role does storytelling play in the transmission of human history and culture?

Non-negotiable assignments required of all students who take this course:

Students will complete at least 7 major performances. These performances are chosen from the events that exist on the high school forensics circuit. These performances include: Dramatic/Humorous Interpretation, Prose/Verse, Radio Speaking, Special Occasion Speaking, Original Oratory, Original Comedy, and Duet Acting. In addition, students will be required to self-assess and peer critique all performances. 

Required reading:       Which texts will be read in the course?

This course does not have a formal textbook, but students will be required to read numerous supplementary texts as supplied by the teacher.

Course-specific policies:  Those that to relate to any section of this course; not teacher-specific—it is possible none may exist.  For instance, we have several standard policies in speech courses regarding due dates, etc

The rules associated with Speech Communication are in effect in Public Performance.

Student expectations  How are students supposed to operate uniquely to the course?  These descriptions would not be the same for other courses.  Items may be bulleted.  Relate to reading level, course assignments, assessments, etc.

Students should be self-directed and motivated to produce exemplary work in Public Performance. Students should not take this course if they are more than reasonably nervous about speaking in public. This course is for true speech enthusiasts.

What makes this course different from other companion courses?  For instance, how do you discriminate between American Lit and Contemporary Fiction?  What separates Enriched Patterns from Patterns?

By focusing on oral interpretation, Public Performance takes communication study to the next level. Students will engage in formal speech delivery, acting exercises, and storytelling rituals. 

Any other relevant and important course related information:           What else can we tell students and parents to make them better educated regarding the courses we offer?

Public Performance will help students become more eloquent, poised, and polished performers.