All speech, written or spoken, is a dead language, until it finds a willing and prepared hearer.

- Robert Louis Stevenson

This week your work will focus on getting to know your audience and finding your voice.

Key Topics for the Week Include:

· Presenting your first talk;
· Meeting your classmates face to face;
· Giving positive feedback; and
· Impromptu speaking.

What to Do:

Attend class. Check your syllabus for specifics on the date, time, and location. You’ll be delivering your talk to your classmates.. Come prepared with a VSB drive (AKA thumb drive, flash drive, travel stick) or your camcorder;

Dress for success. (Business casual is good for this class. No shorts, flip flops or t-shirts, please.) Bring your confidence; and

Consider This Following Your Talk

Review your videotape. Watch it three times. The first time should be without anyone else present. You are likely to pay attention to those physical aspects that you dislike most about yourself (e.g., your hair, weight, nose, or voice). The second time you view the video, you will notice areas that may need attention including missing components of the talk and distracting delivery. The third viewing will help you put things into better perspective. You will notice that you look more composed than you feel. You will also recognize some of the many strengths of your speaking that you will want to repeat in future talks.

Go to the class Blackboard site and answer the following questions:

• How did the talk go for you?
• What were the strengths of your presentation?
• What would you like to have done differently?
• What will you do next time?