Pragmatic Public Speaking : A Workshop Approach to Real World Speeches

Pragmatic Public Speaking: A Workshop Approach to Real World Speeches explains why speaking well is a necessary tool for professional success, and how to speak well in a variety of situations and genres. Using a workbook format, each chapter of the book discusses why a particular type of speech is useful and gives tips on preparation and provides two practice assignments.

The initial chapters deal with speech preparation strategies such outlining and organizing informative speeches, researching, and creating visual aids. Then, students learn about the components of effective delivery— voice and body language. The final chapters address the art of persuasive speaking, which includes understanding claims, fallacies, and advocacy.

Every chapter includes a brainstorm box to help students prepare, a speech checklist for review, an atomistic evaluation, and a holistic evaluation. As they move through the book, readers learn how to analyze speeches, look for logical chains of progression, and identify flaws in logic.

Designed to prepare students for a successful communication future, Pragmatic Public Speaking can be used in introductory communication and public speaking courses.

Danna Prather Davis is an associate professor of communication at Suffolk County Community College in Selden, New York. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Texas and her graduate coursework at the University of Alabama and the University of Iowa. She currently teaches courses in human communication, public speaking, persuasion, and gender and communication. In addition, Professor Prather Davis is the college advisor to SALUTE, the National Veterans’ Honor Society, the assistant forensics coach, and holds a leadership role with the National Communication Association.

Wren C. Levitt is an assistant professor of public speaking, interpersonal communication, and introduction to communication at Suffolk County Community College. She is also a member of the Faculty Senate and Executive Council, and chair of the Campus Relations Committee. Professor Levitt earned her bachelor's degree in communication and rhetorical studies from Hofstra University and her master of science degree from Southern Illinois University where her thesis focused on feminism and rhetoric. She completed her doctorate coursework at the University of South Florida with coursework in performance studies, authoethnography, grief and loss, and narrative.