SYLLABUS FOR COM 275--PERSUASION

Professor Lloyd Rohler
Leutze Hall 235,
Phone 962-3093.
Office Hours: MWF 10:00-11:00, MW 3:30-4:00, F 2:00-3:00 and TTh 1:30-2:30. And by appointment any day.

FOCUS OF COURSE:

This class examines what makes a communication--be it a speech, an advertisement, public service announcement, or a demonstration--persuasive? The course begins by focusing on the traditional view of persuasion as a single person addressing an audience. Through reading of speech texts and watching video presentations, we answer the question, "What makes a speech persuasive?" Next, we examine how the mass media creates persuasive messages through an examination of the major theories of persuasion and propaganda. Finally, we examine the importance of images in our contemporay society not only in commercial but also in political communication.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

Students will become able to explain and apply the major critical perspectives for evaluating a persuasive speech. Students will gain knowledge of the major spokespersons and issues discussed in the public dialogue since the l930's. Students will also gain a perspective on the influence that the changing media environment has had on the staging and the reception of public speeches. Students will also be able to define persuasion, and develop a critical perspective on its uses in today's society. Students will also learn how to construct and deliver a persuasive speech on a social or political issue.

ASSIGNMENTS:

Two examinations worth 100 points, a computer assignment worth 50 points, a short paper evaluating an image campaign worth 100 points and two speeches: a sales pitch and persuasive speech worth 100 points each for a total of 550 points. Pluses and Minuses will be given for final grades using the following scale: GRADING SCALE By Percentage A = 100-93; A- = 92-90; B+ = 89-87; B = 86-83; B-= 82-80; C+ = 79-77; C = 76-73; C- = 72-70; D+ = 69-67; D = 66-63; D-= 62-60; 59 & below = F =59 & below

COURSE POLICIES:

Daily attendance is a strongly encouraged. We will watch videos in class and discuss them. In order to maximize your benefit from the class you need to be present and actively participate. You are young adults and capable of making decisions for yourselves and living with the consequences. Consequently, there is not a separate grade based on attendance. But be warned: the tests will be based on information provided in class and on the videos and you are responsible for knowing it. Speeches must be given on the day assigned with a penalty of one grade off for each class day it is late. Students should read the section on Academic Dishonesty in the Student Code.

TEXTS:

Rohler and Cook, GREAT SPEECHES FOR CRITICISM AND ANALYSIS, 4th ed.