Subject: Adult Diploma Only

Public Speaking

Course Type: Adult Diploma Only

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Credits: 1.0

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Course Description

This course is an introduction to speech communication which emphasizes the practical skill of public speaking, including techniques to lessen speaker anxiety, and the use of visual aids to enhance speaker presentations. This course’s goal is to prepare students for success in typical public speaking situations and to provide them with the basic principles of organization and research needed for effective speeches.

Textbook: Public Speaking Boundless 4.0

Course Objectives

Plan and prepare speeches that inform, persuade or fulfill the needs of a special occasion.

Use presentation aids to enhance your speeches.

Outline your speeches in a logical and thorough fashion.

Conduct meaningful research on a variety of topics.

Analyze your audience and design speeches to reflect your analysis.

Evaluate speeches based on a variety of verbal and non-verbal criteria.

Listen effectively, regardless of your interest in the subject matter.

Understand and explain the communication process.

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Course Contents

Module TitleModule Topic(s)
Introduction to Public Speaking
Public Speaking Ethics
Preparing the Speech Outline
Building Confidence to Speak
Learning to Listen
Choosing a Topic
Analyzing the Audience
Topic Research
Supporting Your Ideas
Organizing and Outlining the Speech
Wording the Speech
Delivering the Speech
Informative Speaking
Persuasive Speaking
Methods of Persuasive Speaking
Preparing and Using Visual Aids
Special Occasions
Speaking in and for Groups

Recommended Prerequisites

Carnegie Credits Explained: Our Approach vs. Trimester Credits

Carnegie Credit System
Excel High School follows the Carnegie Credit system, a widely recognized method of measuring student progress based on instructional hours. A single Carnegie credit reflects approximately 120 hours of coursework, typically completed over a full academic year.

Carnegie Credit vs. Trimester Credit
While Carnegie credits are awarded based on total hours over a year, trimester credits divide the school year into three terms. In a trimester system, students complete courses in shorter, intensive sessions, often earning partial credits (e.g., 0.33 or 0.5 per term). In contrast, Excel’s use of Carnegie credits ensures students have ample time to engage deeply with the material and develop a well-rounded understanding at a consistent pace.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.