Business and Professional Communication, 3rd edition
Kelly M. Quintanilla, Shawn T. Wahl
Chapter 13: Delivering a Speech With Professional Excellence
Chapter Ac%vi%es
Ac%vi%es to Illustrate Key Concepts
activity 1: Class Discussion
description: This is a class activity designed as a discussion learning opportunity on the
subject of the proper and eective use of visual or presentational aids.
direction:
1. For this class discussion activity, the instructor can find a sample student speech by
searching YouTube or asking a couple of students to find and select a student speech
found on YouTube.
2. Begin the class discussion by reviewing the purpose of supporting aids in speeches as
discussed in chapter 13. Key concepts to point out are that aids are to support audience
interest; illustrate for all, and visual learners in particular; enhance understanding; and
aid in retention of the message of the speech.
activity 2: Elevator Speeches
description: This is an individual presentation of short speeches. The purpose of the activity
is to hone the skill of being concise in brief professional business conversations and practice
speaking in front of others.
direction:
1. This speaking assignment should be assigned a week before the class discussion and
presentations.
2. The instructor will share with students a definition and examples of what Elevator
Speeches are and ideas on how to compose an Elevator Speech. The instructor can find
activity 3: Class Discussion
description: This activity is a class discussion and small-group discussion. It is designed to
help students discover new ideas about how to deal with speech anxiety.
direction:
1. A class period before this class discussion on speech anxiety will take place, assign the
following homework: Students are to search the Internet and/or books for tips and ideas
about how to deal with speech anxiety. If it is a video, bring the URL to class, or if it an