Homework

Homework #1

Directions: The purpose of the homework assignment is to help students identify their own implicit 
theories of communication. Homework should be typed, a minimum of ½ a page and maximum of two 
pages per assignment(ie, answer all questions below in no more than 2 pages). Please note that 
there are no right or wrong answers to these questions per se – please provide your honest response.

Reminder: No emailed or electronic copies of your assignments are accepted. Please bring a 
printed copy to class.

DUE: Wed 3/3

PROMPT #1: Please answer the following five questions:

1. As you begin this class what is your understanding of “public speaking”?

2. Have you given a speech in public before (class speeches count)? When? What was your topic? 
How did it go?

3. Presidential politics requires candidates to give many speeches to various audiences. Please 
watch the following two speeches:

Mitt Romney Launches 2012 Presidential Campaign - http://youtu.be/E2gY2Otr9Hk

President Obama launches 2012 re-election campaign from Chicago 4.14.11 -
http://youtu.be/8vOorMv6nT8

Beyond the political positions of each candidate what do you think each candidate did well 
and what could they improve in terms of their public speaking?

4. If Mt. SAC asked you to give a speech at graduation, what three points would you discuss? Why? 

5. What is your goal in taking this class?

Homework #2

Homework should be typed, a minimum of ½ a page and maximum of two
pages per assignment(ie, answer all three questions below in no more than 2 pages). Please note that
there are no right or wrong answers to these questions per se – please provide your honest response.
Reminder: No emailed or electronic copies of your assignments are accepted. Please bring a
printed copy to class.

DUE: 3/5

PROMPT #2: Please answer the following fourquestions:

1. What topic would you like to cover for your demonstration speech? Why do you think it would be valuable to the class?

2. What topic would you like to do for your informative speech? Why do you think your audience should learn about this topic?

3. What topic would you like to do for your persuasive speech? What would be your stand on the issue? Why do you think your audience disagrees with you on this topic?

4. What cultural object would you like to present for your cultural artifact speech? Why do you think it would be interesting to the class? (you may do artifacts from cultures other than your own)

Homework #3

DUE: Mon 6/9

For your homework #3 please complete page 73 in the workbook section of your textbook - the "Impromptu Speaking Brain Archive."  You will be able to use this worksheet during your preparation time for your impromptu speech.  This assignment DOES NOT need to typed. Please feel free to write directly on the worksheet.