The competent speaker should present
speeches that reflect solid understanding of communication theory,
research techniques, and organization. Specifically,
1. Determine the purpose of oral
discourse
a. Identify the various purposes
for discourse
b. Understand that different contexts require
differing purposes
c. Generate a specific purpose relevant to
the general purpose
2. Choose a topic and restrict it
according to the purpose and the audience
a. Identify a subject that is
relevant to the speaker's role, knowledge, concerns, and
interests
b. Narrow the topic adapting it to the purpose and
time constraints for communicating
c. Adapt the treatment of
the topic to the audience and context
3. Fulfill the purpose of oral
discourse by:
a. Formulating a thesis statement
b. Providing adequate verbal and visual support material
c.
Selecting a suitable organizational pattern
d. Demonstrating
careful word choice
e. Providing effective transitions
The competent speaker should use
delivery skills to craft an effective presentation.
Specifically,
1. Employ vocal variety in rate,
pitch, and intensity
a. Use vocal variety to heighten
and maintain interest
b. Use a rate that is suitable to the
message, occasion, and audience
c. Use pitch to clarify and
emphasize
d. Use intensity appropriate for the message and
audible to the audience
2. Articulate the American English
language clearly
3. Employ language appropriate to the
designated audience
a. Employ language that enhances
the speaker's credibility, promotes the purpose,
and the receiver's understanding.
b. Use standard
pronunciation
c. Use standard grammar
4. Demonstrate nonverbal behavior
that supports the verbal message
a. Use appropriate vocal elements
that enhance the verbal intent
b. Use appropriate body
elements that enhance the verbal intent
c. Use appropriate
spatial elements that enhance the verbal intent
d. Consider
using appropriate clothing and ornamentation to enhance the
verbal intent
5. Apply constructive criticism to improve upon
future speeches
The competent speaker should be able
to listen with literal and critical comprehension.
Specifically,
1. Recognize main ideas
a. Distinguish ideas fundamental
to the thesis from support material
b. Identify transitional,
organizational, and non-verbal cues
2. Identify supporting details
a. Distinguish between those
ideas that support the main ideas and those that do not
b.
Determine whether each main idea is adequately supported
3. Distinguish between emotional and
logical arguments
4. Synthesize and evaluate by drawing
logical inferences
a. Draw valid inferences from the
information
b. Identify the types of verbal and nonverbal
information
c. Identify patterns of reasoning and judge the
validity of arguments
d. Analyze the information and
inferences to draw conclusions
5. Employ active listening
a. Demonstrate comprehension by
formulating questions that clarify or qualify
b. Demonstrate
comprehension by paraphrasing the speaker's message
6. Provide constructive feedback
based on effective listening
principles
