COMN11-102: Strategic Speaking and Writing

Whether the goal is to convince one person through conversation, sway a small group of work colleagues, or win over the public, this subject investigates how you can convince others to change their attitudes and behaviour to (ethically) accomplish your goals through public speaking. This subject positions public speaking as a context-sensitive skill essential for authentic communication in professional and personal settings. It draws on oral traditions, rhetorical theory and contemporary persuasive practices, grounded in ethical frameworks for public discourse. During the semester, you will engage in hands-on workshops, reflective practice and peer feedback to develop extemporaneous speaking skills applicable to diverse contexts, such as pitches, interviews, meetings and public engagements. You will examine the interplay of place, time, audience and self as you discover your unique communicative strengths through trial, error and guided exploration.