After reading Aristotle and learning the basics of how to build an argument, students made their first persuasive presentation. These presentations were, on the whole, the most clear, well-organized, and effective speeches the students have given.
One of the fundamentals of persuasion that makes it such an interesting craft is the shared power dynamic between speaker and listener. Speakers must know how to speak in order to be effective, but they also must know how to be heard. We have been concentrating on understanding the differences between listening and hearing, how to listen well, and demographic and psychographic factors that effect our ability to listen. By considering themselves as listeners, students will be able to anticipate the types of issues they need to stay aware of when they construct their speeches as well as when they present them.
