20th Edition

Principles of Public Speaking

By Kathleen German Copyright 2021
    296 Pages 58 B/W Illustrations
    by Routledge

    296 Pages 58 B/W Illustrations
    by Routledge

    Balancing skills and theory, this introductory public speaking textbook encourages the reader to see public speaking as a way to build community in today’s diverse world.

    Within a framework that emphasizes speaker responsibility, listening, and cultural awareness, this classic book uses examples from college, workplace, political, and social communication to make the study of public speaking relevant, contemporary, and exciting. This new edition includes expanded coverage of mediated speaking with examples from podcasts and online speaking contexts; discussion of ethical issues of contemporary public discourse, including disinformation and public civility; and tips for extemporaneous speaking.

    This textbook is ideal for general courses on public speaking as well as specialized programs in business, management, political communication, and public affairs.

    A companion website including an instructor’s manual containing discussion questions, exercises, quiz questions, and suggestions for syllabus design is available at www.routledge.com/cw/german.

    I. Public Speaking in an Electronic World 

    1. Public Speaking in a Civil Society 

    2. Getting Started 

    3. Coping With Anxiety 

    4. Critical Listening 

    II. Planning and Preparing Your Speech 

    5. Understanding Your Audience 

    6. Finding and Using Supporting Materials 

    7. Organizing and Outlining Your Speech 

    8. Beginning and Ending Your Speech 

    III. Presenting Your Speech 

    9. Wording Your Speech 

    10. Delivering Your Speech 

    11. Using Visual Media 

    IV. Types of Public Speaking 

    12. Speeches to Inform 

    13. Speeches to Persuade 

    14. Argumentation and Critical Thinking 

    15. Speaking in Community Settings

    Biography

    Kathleen M. German is Professor of Media and Culture at Miami University, USA.