Introductory Level Courses: Introductory courses in Rhetoric focus on the principles and practice of effective and responsible message creation and presentation in public contexts (RHE 101) and valid and ethical argumentation (RHE 143, RHE 145). Students become competent in a variety of effective communication techniques, learn to cope with communication apprehension, and develop and exercise skills in critical thinking, argument formation, and argument analysis.
Introductory Courses—Language StudiesRHE 101 Public Speaking
This course covers the fundamentals of rhetoric composition and delivery. Students research, compose, and deliver ceremonial and persuasive speeches. In addition, they learn and employ introductory principles of reasoning, argumentation, and rhetorical criticism. Finally, students analyze the videotape recordings of their speeches and learn to use electronic media in public presentations. This course is offered each semester.