Overview of Unit: Students will learn essential speech vocabulary and techniques that they will be developing over the course of the class. They will learn the process of writing and preparing a speech and set goals for their learning.
Priority Standards for unit:

Present claims and findings, emphasizing salient points in a focused, coherent manner with relevant evidence, sound valid reasoning, and well-chosen details; use appropriate eye contact, adequate volume, and clear pronunciation. 

Speaking & Listening

Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate. Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research. 

Writing , relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, using search terms effectively; assess the credibility and accuracy of each source; and quote or paraphrase the data and conclusions of others while avoiding plagiarism and following a standard format for citation. 

Writing  Delineate a speaker’s argument and specific claims, evaluating the soundness of the reasoning and relevance and sufficiency of the evidence and identifying when irrelevant evidence is introduced. 

Speaking & Listening  Integrate multimedia and visual displays into presentations to clarify information, strengthen claims and evidence, and add interest. 

Speaking & Listening5 Analyze the purpose of information presented in diverse media and formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively, orally) and evaluate the motives (e.g., social, commercial, political) behind its presentation. 

Speaking & Listening2, 8th grade●Analyze the main ideas and supporting details presented in diverse media and formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively, orally) and explain how the ideas clarify a topic, text, or issue under study. 

Speaking & Listening, 7th grade●Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening. 

Language, 7th grade○Choose language that expresses ideas precisely and concisely, recognizing and eliminating wordiness and redundancy. Acquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases; gather vocabulary knowledge when considering a word or phrase important to comprehension or expression.

 Language,  7th grade Use technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing and present the relationships between information and ideas clearly and efficiently. 

Writing Technical 6, 6-8th grade  With some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach, focusing on how well purpose and audience have been addressed. 

Writing Technical  6-8th grade●Students demonstrate creative thinking, construct knowledge, and develop innovative products and processes using technology (ISTE 1 - Creativity and Innovation). ○Apply existing knowledge to generate new ideas, products, or processes.○Create original works as a means of personal or group expression. ○Use models and simulations to explore complex systems and issues.○Identify trends and forecast possibilities.

●Students use critical thinking skills to plan and conduct research, manage projects, solve problems, and make informed decisions using appropriate digital tools and resources (ISTE 4 - Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Decision Making).○Identify and define authentic problems and significant questions for investigation.○Collect and analyze data to identify solutions and/or make informed 

I am a semi-retired Professor and High School teacher.  I am also a practicing attorney in New York State.  I taught Speech and Debate for many years at the Middle and High School Level.  I was an award winning coach at the State level.  My students also competed at the National Level.  Several received scholarships to college based on their speech and debate accomplishments.  I have also taught Advanced Placement US Government, Advanced Placement Comparative Government and traditional High School Government for over ten years.  I know it is important to introduce a fact based, non biased lesson to students that will foster discussions with their family.  For twenty years I have had the opportunity to work with students from Pre-K through Graduate School in both a traditional learning atmosphere and those classes that deviate from neurotypical teaching.  I held my teaching certification in World History/US History/Government and Economics for Middle and High School.   My teaching philosophy is that all students are individuals and unique learners that must have a stimulating educational environment where they can grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. It is my desire to create this type of atmosphere where students can meet their full potential. I will provide a safe environment where students are invited to share their ideas and where mistakes are considered education victories.
     While incorporating the eight learning styles into each class, I believe that there are five essential elements that are conducive to learning. (1) The teacher's role is to act as a guide. (2) Students must have access to hands-on activities. (3) Students should be able to have choices and let their curiosity direct their learning. (4) Students need the opportunity to practice skills in a safe environment. (5) Technology must be incorporated into the school day.

Homework Offered
Homework is assigned each week.  Homework is individual although in some cases they will have opponents.
1 - 2 hours per week outside of class
Assessments Offered
Students are given expectations before assignments are due.  You can also find assignments and announcements in the classroom tab.
Grades Offered