SPEAKING ACROSS THE CURRICULUM

Public speaking is mandated as a required course by some high school districts; it is written into the English curriculum at other schools. Yet most of educators realize that public speaking skills cannot be relegated to one or two subject areas. Just as all professions encourage and reward effective communication skills, all courses—from algebra to history— benefit from students with these skills. Speaking Across the Curriculum gives teachers ready-made speaking and listening activities that can be infused into any curriculum. Over 50 activities help teachers encourage debate and discussion and teach students speaking and listening skills. Students will learn how to outline a speech, build active listening skills, develop a media presentation, persuade an audience and speak spontaneously. Activities also help students analyze and evaluate arguments and sources, including web sites. Each activity includes background information, step-by-step procedure, materials needed, tips for teachers, and assessment tools as well as handouts and evaluation forms.