Tracey L. Smith

Mary Tague-Busler

A Manual for Public Speaking

Icebreaker

The latest edition of Icebreaker—a practical, hands-on guide to public speaking for those with little or no experience—demonstrates a sequence of nine steps in the speech process: select a general topic, focus your topic, consider your specific purpose, organize your speech, research your topic, create presentation aids, create speech notes, practice, and deliver your speech. A distinctive series of opening questions reflectively introduce a particular public speaking/oral communication element. From the start, the questions cue readers to focus on key concepts and to watch for answers that lie ahead. “Strengthen Your Skills” exercises help readers practice essential components of public speaking. Discussion questions prompt readers to consider practical and personal applications as well as to gauge comprehension. Icebreaker provides a valuable framework for future speakers to become confident and competent.

A Manual for Public Speaking, Seventh Edition

Written expressly for those with little or no experience in public speaking, this down-to-earth text provides the nuts and bolts that connect and reinforce essential steps for speech preparation and delivery. Throughout, the authors demonstrate how the processes involved in delivering a speech can be used to improve overall communication skills. They guide novice speakers in how to choose a topic, learn the background and needs of their audience, and know their reason for giving the speech. Clear explanations of how to research, prepare, organize, and deliver different types of speeches (e.g., informative, special occasion, persuasive) resonate with readers from all walks of life. Chapters begin with scenarios that depict a real-life situation to set the stage for the key topics discussed in the chapter. Strengthen Your Skills exercises and Application to Everyday Life boxes illustrate how elements of public speaking intersect with speaking situations in daily life. Discussion questions motivate readers to review and remember topics presented in each chapter. Appendices that contain activities, exercises, and supplemental material to aid in speech preparation, delivery, evaluation, and overcoming speech anxiety precede a comprehensive glossary.

A Manual for Public Speaking, Sixth Edition

Starla Herbig

Effective communication is essential to meeting basic human needs. In the latest edition of their popular text, Smith and Tague-Busler are joined by new author Starla Herbig in presenting interpersonal communication concepts and techniques in a lively, accessible manner. Updated examples and exercises enhance established chapter coverage and minor reorganization prompts readers to explore the role of self-concept and self-esteem in their interactions with others before authors introduce elements of interpersonal communication. Affordable and straightforward, The Key to Survival is intended for those with varying backgrounds. Engaging chapter-opener narratives link common miscommunication experiences to essential topics. Boxes throughout chapters provide sidebar commentary on primary topics and approachable exercises. Key terms, discussion questions, and a comprehensive glossary support an enjoyable teaching and learning experience.

Mary Tague-Busler

Books

Your next favorite book is out there