Course Description:

Other than its discursive normality, how can public speaking be an artistic act? If such act entails a creative process, are there strategies for any public speaker to convey ideas not only in a comprehensible manner but also in an interesting, animating fashion? What are other complications when language makes the challenge even more stupendous? This course aims at incorporating three important elements together in presenting a successful speech in English: drafting ideas, structuring a narrative, and delivering a speech. The course will go through certain rhetorical analysis with certain successful written speeches and impressive public speeches. Throughout the course, we will also practice many ceremonial speeches such as how to draft and deliver such speeches as welcome remarks, introductory statements, and closing remarks. Throughout the semester, we will as well develop students’ presentation skills and narrative structuring: what to say and what to avoid. Participation and attendance are obligatory as part of your performance will be assessed by other members.