Speeches that Moved Us: Giving Student-designed Awards on the Last Day of Speech Class

• In Event: G.I.F.T.S. Session III

Abstract

After a public speaking instructor has engaged students all semester with activities, speeches, and question/answer sessions, the last class meeting can be a letdown: taking a silent final exam and unceremoniously parting ways. Asking students to design awards for classmates can remind them how speeches moved them. This award activity reinforces multiple communication principles (listening, diversity, persuasion) while providing levity and closure for the course.

Author

• Dustin Lemke, Hillsborough Community College