PSCC Libraries: SPCH 2100: Public Speaking: Course & Assignments

Reference & Instruction Librarian

Stephanie C Gillespie

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ER144b

865.539.7106

Subjects:Drama, English Composition, Languages, Literature, Poetry

Primary Source Information

For some research topics, you may want to cite original documents, interviews, artwork, artifacts, novels, poetry, or music. These are primary sources, which were either created at the time of an event or created by a person who experienced an event. They offer a unique insight into a particular time or topic.

Find Credible Sources

Once you have your topic and a rough outline, you need credible resources to back up your main points. Not sure how to identify credible sources? Take the Research Tutorial!

Research Tutorial
Interactive introduction to research. If you are taking the tutorial for a class, you will need to identify your class number and instructor’s last name. If not, you can mark “No class” and write in “No instructor.”

Citation Guide

Most academic writing cites others' ideas and research. Ask your instructor which citation style (APA or MLA) to use for your speeches.

How citing sources benefits you:

Sources that support your ideas give your paper authority and credibility
Shows you have researched your topic thoroughly
Crediting sources protects you from plagiarism
A list of sources can be a useful record for further research

SPCH 2100 Outline APA Format Template
This is one way to format an APA outline. Check with your professor that it is the correct format for your class.
SPCH 2100 Outline MLA Format Template
This is one way to format an MLA outline. Check with your professor that it is the correct format for your class.

The Essentials of Persuasive Public Speaking by Sims Wyeth
Publication Date: 2014

Among the many pieces of expert advice in The Essentials of Persuasive Public Speaking is this nugget: "To capture attention, define a problem that keeps listeners up at night." Wyeth may as well be talking about the book itself--for nothing keeps us up at night like the prospect of giving a speech in the morning.In this portable, brief, and lucid guide to presenting, Wyeth counsels how to calm a thumping heart and reveals techniques on preparation, delivery, and visual aids as he gives you vivid stories and rubber-meets-the-road advice. And he does more than simply ease your dread; he inspires you with historical accounts and incisive observations on the power and purpose of speaking well. From advice on the pitch and pace of your speaking voice to admonishments against squirrel-paw hands and data-crammed PowerPoint slides, Wyeth's pointers will give you the focus and confidence to stand up straight, lean forward, and tell your story well.
Public Speaking in an Instant by Keith Bailey; Karen Leland
Publication Date: 2009

Topics include using body language, the power of silence, focusing on the message, being funny and not foolish, and preparation.
The Art of Storytelling by John D. Walsh
Publication Date: 2003

Many of us would love to hold the attention of a crowd, a classroom, or just a group of our friends by telling them a great story. We have felt the pressure of a public presentation or the disappointment of a story that is ignored and we are ready for more. In The Art of Storytelling, John Walsh talks through the steps to presenting a compelling story, outlining the strategies that helped him move from stutterer to storyteller as he fulfilled his calling of becoming a preacher. This book will help any person with a story to share, as it talks through all aspects of presentation, from what to do with your hands as you speak, to crafting a killer ending. It is especially relevant those who teach through the stories of the Bible or who would like to do so.