Speech (SPCH)

SPCH 103
Argumentation and Debate
3 Units (AA/AS; Citrus A2; CSU; UC)
54 lecture hours

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Strongly recommended: ENGL C1000.

This course provides students with the foundational knowledge of argumentation and debate concepts and theories to successfully dissect and deliver arguments in distinct contexts and public speaking settings and to critically evaluate the arguments of others. The course emphasizes Aristotle’s ethos, pathos, and logos, audience analysis, ethics, critical listening, and effective verbal and nonverbal practices for effective argumentation. Last, the course includes analysis of strong evidence and the process of reasoning needed for effective arguing and presentation of arguments to live audiences. Central to this course is the learning of the foundational knowledge and practice of public speaking in a democratic society to communicate ideas through speaking in debate contexts such as to audience’s expected to refute or question the speaker’s central thesis and/or arguments.

SPCH 106
Small Group Communication
3 Units (AA/AS; Citrus A2; CSU; UC; Cal-GETC 1C)
54 lecture hours

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Strongly recommended: ENGL C1000.

This course focuses on oral communication in small group settings. Emphasis is placed on rhetorical principles and practices relating to small groups. Additionally, the focus is on the assessment of the efficacy of communication processes such as problem-solving, conflict management, decision-making, and leadership. The course is intended for students pursuing a Communication Studies degree or any discipline requiring effective communication in group settings. Throughout the course, students are expected to speak their own words, not recite words written by others. This course includes faculty-supervised, faculty-evaluated oral presentations in the presence of others (physically or virtually).

SPCH 150
Intercultural Communication
3 Units (AA/AS; Citrus D2; CSU; UC; IGETC 4; Cal-GETC 4)
54 lecture hours

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Strongly recommended: ENGL C1000.

Introduction to intercultural communication in domestic and/or global contexts. Influence of cultures, languages, and social patterns on how members of groups relate among themselves and with members of different ethnic and cultural groups. Theory and knowledge of effective communication within and between cultures. Appreciation and comparison of communication of diverse groups within the larger context of American culture.