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Module 1: Introduction to Speech Skills / Public Speaking
- Building Confidence:
- Icebreaker activities to reduce anxiety and promote comfort.
- Positive reinforcement and encouragement to build self-esteem.
- Creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment.
- Basic Delivery Techniques:
- Speaking clearly and audibly.
- Maintaining eye contact with the audience.
- Using appropriate body language and gestures.
- Storytelling and Personal Narratives:
- Sharing personal experiences and stories.
- Organizing thoughts into a coherent narrative.
- Engaging the audience through expressive delivery.
- Building Confidence:
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Module 2: Introduction to Research
- What is Research?:
- Defining research as a way to find information and learn new things.
- Discussing why research is important in everyday life.
- Key Word Searches:
- Identifying key words related to a topic.
- Using simple search engines and online resources.
- Practicing effective search techniques.
- Examining Basic Sources:
- Introduction to different types of sources (books, websites, etc.).
- Learning to identify basic information about a source (author, title, date).
- What is Research?:
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Module 3: Critical Thinking
- What is Critical Thinking?:
- Defining critical thinking as a way to analyze information and make informed decisions.
- Source Evaluation:
- Distinguishing between factual and opinion-based information.
- Identifying potential bias in sources.
- Claim, Evidence, and Impact (CEI):
- Understanding the basic structure of an argument.
- Identifying claims, evidence, and the impact of evidence in simple texts.
- What is Critical Thinking?:
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Module 4: Reading Assignments
- Age-Appropriate Texts:
- Selecting engaging and relevant reading materials.
- Providing support for struggling readers.
- Reading Comprehension:
- Asking questions to check for understanding.
- Summarizing key points and main ideas.
- Vocabulary Building:
- Introducing new words and concepts related to speech and research.
- Encouraging students to use new vocabulary in their own speaking and writing.
- Age-Appropriate Texts:
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Module 5: Basic Speech Structure
- Introduction, Body, and Conclusion:
- Understanding the basic components of a speech.
- Crafting attention-grabbing introductions.
- Developing clear and organized body paragraphs.
- Writing effective conclusions that summarize key points.
- Organizing Ideas:
- Using outlines and graphic organizers to structure speeches.
- Practicing transitions between ideas.
- Introduction, Body, and Conclusion:
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Module 1: Foundational Skills (September to October)
- Extemporaneous Speaking Fundamentals:
- Introduction to current events and news sources.
- Structuring a speech with limited preparation time.
- Developing clear and concise arguments.
- Practicing delivery techniques for extemporaneous speaking.
- Introducing unified analysis within speeches
- Impromptu Speaking Fundamentals:
- Thinking on one’s feet and organizing thoughts quickly.
- Generating ideas and supporting them with evidence.
- Delivering impromptu speeches with confidence.
- Public Forum Debate Fundamentals:
- Understanding the format and rules of Public Forum debate.
- Learning basic argumentation and refutation strategies.
- Developing teamwork and collaboration skills.
- Extemporaneous Speaking Fundamentals:
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Module 2: Argumentation and Speech Formulation (October to December/January)
- Speech Formulation and Narrative Creation:
- Crafting compelling narratives for persuasive speaking.
- Using storytelling techniques to engage audiences.
- Structuring speeches for maximum impact.
- Developing Strong Arguments and Unified Analysis:
- Building arguments around a central, clear thesis.
- Supporting arguments with logical reasoning and evidence.
- Anticipating and addressing counter-arguments.
- Simplifying Complex Topics:
- Breaking down complex issues into understandable components.
- Using analogies and examples to clarify ideas.
- Avoiding jargon and technical terms.
- Speech Formulation and Narrative Creation:
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Module 3: Advanced Research and Competitive Preparation
- Advanced Research Skills:
- Utilizing academic databases and credible online sources.
- Evaluating the reliability and bias of information.
- Synthesizing information from multiple sources.
- Research Under Time Constraints:
- Efficiently gathering relevant information in limited time.
- Prioritizing research tasks for maximum impact.
- Introduction to General Competition:
- Understanding different speech and debate event formats.
- Developing strategies for competitive success.
- Practicing performance and receiving
- Advanced Research Skills:
I. ALL IN ONE Mentor Program (Grades 9–12)
A. Coursework Advising
- 9th/10th Grade:
- Assess interests and strengths; explore courses and electives.
- Build a 4-year plan meeting graduation and college requirements.
- Example: A student interested in engineering takes honors math/science and explores tech electives.
- 11th/12th Grade:
- Select advanced/AP/IB courses tied to college goals.
- Advise on dual enrollment options.
- Example: A future biology major takes AP Bio, AP Chem, and AP Calc.
B. Extracurricular Advising
- 9th/10th Grade:
- Inventory interests; recommend clubs, sports, volunteering.
- Teach time management.
- Example: A budding writer joins the school paper or debate club.
- 11th/12th Grade:
- Identify leadership opportunities and support project development.
- Encourage community involvement.
- Example: A student starts a recycling program or leads a service project.
C. Integrated College Advising (9–12)
- Create a college application timeline and track progress.
- Guide on essays, recommendations, and financial aid.
- Example: Advisors track academic/extracurricular progress from 9th grade, tailoring college prep plans.
II. Essay Review
- Brainstorming essay topics and narratives.
- Review and feedback on drafts.
- Guidance on revision for clarity and impact.
- Example: An advisor helps a student highlight resilience in an essay about overcoming challenges.
III. College List Development
- Research schools using online tools/databases.
- Match with programs based on profile and preferences.
- Assess financial needs and aid options.
- Example: Advisors help build a college list balancing safety, target, and reach schools.
IV. College & Internship Interview Prep (Monthly/Bi-Monthly)
- Resume reviews and interview workshops.
- Mock interviews with feedback.
- Strategies for answering tough questions and presenting strengths.
- Example: Advisors conduct mock interviews, offering feedback on content and