8th Grade Speech/Debate Syllabus

Belle Isle Enterprise Middle School

Teacher:
Classroom:
Plan Period:
Contact:

Ms. Le
C-100
A2 & B2 - 10:15-11:45
587-6600; vtle@okcps.org

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
8th grade speech/debate is a course designed to expand knowledge of public speaking and
argumentation skills. Students will discover advanced communication and research skills, experience
mock trial debate, and participate in other speaking styles including impromptu, extemporaneous,
informative and entertainment. Speech/Debate students may join our team to participate in a spring
weekend novice speech/drama competition if desired. This has been a huge hit in the past and BIEMS
students are always highly successful!
STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO:
1. Perform alone and in groups.
2. Exhibit appropriate audience behavior (in class & during performances).
3. Turn in required written work prior to performance.
4. Research topics through the library, internet, television news, magazines and newspapers.
5. Participate in all class activities, discussions and debates.
6. Complete specific exercises and assignments and turn in on time.
NECESSARY SUPPLIES:
1. Agenda
2. Folder/binder for keeping materials organized
3. Pencil or blue/black pen
Wish List:
- HP Ink 61
CLASSROOM PROCEDURES:
1. Sit in your assigned seat and begin working immediately on the warm-up activity.
2. File warm-ups, assignments, graded work and notes in the appropriate sections of your
notebook.
3. Homework and other completed assignments are to be placed in your class file box.
4. You do not need to ask permission to sharpen your pencil, get a tissue, or borrow paper/pencil.
Please do it without disturbing others. If you borrow paper or pencil too often I will quickly run
out. Please be considerate and replace what you borrow.
5. When you need to use the restroom, please wait until a convenient time to ask permission. Sign
out by the door and take a pass.
6. CHECK YOUR AGENDA! Notification of all due dates will be posted on the agenda each day.
Write the agenda down each day. Dont come into class and say you didnt know there was an
assignment.
7. COME SEE ME! If you are having trouble with anything, please talk to me about it. There is
always a positive solution to the problem and I am happy to help you find it. It would hurt my
feelings if you got lost and didnt ask for my help.

Consequences for inappropriate behavior will be in alignment with the BIEMS Discipline Plan utilizing
the mark system.
GRADING POLICY
Grades are based on the following criteria:
1. Participation & Preparation student will participate in daily class activities, exercises and
discussions; student will arrive to class with all necessary materials (notebook, pencil, paper,
assignment). This includes being prepared for in-class speeches or debates. 20
participation/preparation points are available each class period.
2. Assignments written and performance-based assignments or tests.
3. You do not have to be a world class speaker to excel in this class. Just demonstrate that you did
your best, understood the concepts of each unit and are making progress.
TESTS
The following procedure will be followed regarding written test-taking:
1. Students will receive a reminder and basic information two class periods before the written test.
2. Students will receive a detailed review one class period before the written test.
3. Students who are absent on one of the above days will still be held responsible to take the test.
4. Students who are absent on both days will be responsible for taking the test one class period
after they return to class.
5. Students who are present for both days, but absent for the test will be responsible for taking the
test upon returning to class.
ATTENDANCE
If you are absent, it is your responsibility to take care of makeup work. Please check with me or the
class agenda book for missed assignments and get missed notes from the website or a friend. IT IS UP
TO YOU TO SCHEDULE A TIME TO MAKE UP A MISSED TEST.