Public speaking, also called oration or oratory, is the process of communicating information to a live audience. The type of information communicated is deliberately structured to inform, persuade, and entertain.

Foundations of Public Speaking

Course Overview:

This course aims to equip students, businessmen, and working professionals with the fundamental skills required for effective public speaking. It will cover essential techniques, strategies, and practical applications to enhance confidence and communication abilities in English.

Course Duration:

12 weeks (3 months), with 2 classes per week (1.5 hours each)

Week 1-2: Introduction to Public Speaking

• Class 1: Course Introduction and Objectives

  • Overview of the course structure

  • Importance of public speaking in various contexts

  • Basic principles of effective communication

• Class 2: Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence

  • Understanding common fears and anxieties

  • Techniques for managing nervousness

  • Building self-confidence through practice

Week 3-4: Speech Preparation and Organization

• Class 3: Topic Selection and Audience Analysis

  • Choosing appropriate topics for different audiences

  • Analyzing audience needs and expectations

  • Tailoring content to engage and inform

• Class 4: Structuring Your Speech

  • Organizing ideas logically

  • Creating an engaging introduction, body, and conclusion

  • Using transitions effectively

Week 5-6: Developing Effective Delivery Skills

• Class 5: Voice and Articulation

  • Techniques for clear and expressive speech

  • Controlling pitch, pace, and volume

  • Practicing pronunciation and enunciation

• Class 6: Body Language and Non-Verbal Communication

  • Importance of body language in public speaking

  • Using gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact

  • Maintaining a confident and engaging presence

Week 7-8: Visual Aids and Supporting Materials

• Class 7: Using Visual Aids Effectively

  • Types of visual aids: slides, charts, props, etc.

  • Designing visually appealing and informative aids

  • Integrating visual aids seamlessly into your speech

• Class 8: Supporting Materials and Evidence

  • Incorporating statistics, quotes, and anecdotes

  • Citing sources and avoiding plagiarism

  • Enhancing credibility with well-researched content

Week 9-10: Persuasive and Informative Speaking

• Class 9: Persuasive Speaking Techniques

  • Understanding the principles of persuasion

  • Crafting compelling arguments

  • Addressing counterarguments and objections

• Class 10: Informative Speaking Techniques

  • Presenting information clearly and concisely

  • Using examples and explanations effectively

  • Engaging the audience with interesting facts

Week 11: Practice and Feedback

• Class 11: Practice Sessions

  • Delivering prepared speeches in front of the class

  • Receiving constructive feedback from peers and instructor

  • Identifying areas for improvement

Week 12: Final Presentations and Assessment

• Class 12: Final Presentations

  • Delivering a final speech incorporating all learned techniques

  • Evaluating performance based on established criteria

  • Providing and receiving final feedback