Instruction: Introduction speeches are an effective way to get students talking about a subject they know-themselves. However, many times students only provide surface information and their speeches can become boring and stale. Instead of the same old "Hi, my name is Suzy. I am a sophomore. I am from Tulsa, and I am a biology major," introduction speech, spruce up these speeches using the following questions as guides:

Either have students introduce themselves or pair students together with someone they do not know. Give students time to talk with their partner and ask each other some or all the question above. Based on the knowledge that the student obtains from their partner, they must give a speech introducing their partner to the rest of the class. If time will not allow this entire process to be accomplished in one day, students can get together and ask each other questions half way through one class (maybe the first day, after the instructor goes through the syllabus) and then give the speeches during the next class period.

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Instructions: This can be done as either an impromptu, informal, or first minor speaking assignment that includes outside preparation time. The instructor asks the student a question, and the student delivers his/her answer to the question in the form of a speech. The instructor can make up his/her own questions, but this may be difficult and time consuming. Therefore, we suggest the following three books which are filled with questions that the instructor can use:

These books are filled with questions that constantly challenge individuals' attitudes, morals, beliefs, and behaviors. These questions not only give students the opportunity to practice their public speaking skills and gain confidence, but they may also serve as a tool for self-discovery.

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Instructions: In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr., have students view or read his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. To celebrate his speech and to provide students with an opportunity to speak early on in the semester, have students come up with a topic for their own "I Have a Dream" speech. This assignment will also provide students with an opportunity to get to know their classmates.

Students should talk about one of their dreams for themselves and/or their country. This dream can range from the simple to the grand. Students will stand up in front of the class or in a circle and tell the class what their dreams is, why it is important to them, and one thing they can do to accomplish this dream. Depending on time, once all students have completed the assignment, the instructor can utilize some of these dreams as topics for a discussion on local/national events/issues that students face today.

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