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At some point during the semester, you—in conjunction with one other classmate—will have to lead a discussion on some topic associated with the class. Not everyone feels comfortable speaking before groups, and many people do not possess the kind of temperament that allows one to thrive in such circumstances. Nevertheless, a liberal arts college ought to teach you not only how to think, but how to express yourself so you can convey what you have learned to others. Think of this assignment as an opportunity to practice your skills before a friendly group. This class will probably be better disposed toward you than just about any other possible audience imaginable. Relax.
To help make this assignment as enjoyable as possible for both you and the class, I've provided some advice below. If you have further questions about this assignment over the course of the semester, please let me know.
CLASS PARTICIPATION
Remember above all else that you are leading a discussion. Do not lecture the class. Instead, ask questions. Solicit your classmates' opinions. Try to start an argument.
Whatever you do, do not tell the class what the reading is about. Ask the class questions that will lead it to understand the significance of the reading. In other words, make the class do the work.
Realize that class discussions do not always go as planned—and it is not necessarily the fault of those leading that discussion. Life is just like that. If you are well prepared and the class does not catch fire, I will not penalize you.
PLANNING
A well-prepared discussion will always go more smoothly than one cobbled together at the last minute. Indeed, planning and preparation will prove more important than just about everything else.
When to Start: It is never too early to start. Time will allow you to overcome unforeseen problems. Start looking at the material as soon as possible. You will have to read ahead of schedule to prepare on time.
Sources: To prepare for this assignment, you need to read the primary sources associated with your discussion. In all likelihood, you will also need to read about the topic in your textbook. These two sources should prove sufficient. If you wish to gather more material, however, please feel free to do so.
Notes: Take notes as you read the material. Note-taking methods differ from person to person. Chose a system with which you feel comfortable but which also allows you to collect information in a coherent and organized fashion.
Synthesizing and Thinking: Undoubtedly, you will think as you read. At a certain point, however, you will have to sift through the materials and notes you have accumulated while thinking about the following questions:
Preparation: As you begin organizing the discussion, keep the following issues in mind:
The Professor: If you have any questions during this process, please feel free to consult me. Remember, though, that I cannot help you until you have attempted to help yourself.
CONTENT
As you look down this list, you will see that many of the rules that apply to essays also apply to speaking.
Not Just Description, But Analysis Too: Warm up your classmates by asking them, "what does so-and-so say about such-and-such." But from there, ask them questions that will require analysis.
Linking Ideas Together: Figure out how to link the ideas you present to the themes and topics covered in the class as a whole. Moreover, think about how to relate the readings to the larger issues of the course.
Conclusion: There is no rule about how to end a discussion. "Uh, I think that's it," is probably not the most effective closing. Try to finish by reminding the class of the significance and consequences of the event under discussion.
FORM
Try to remember the following suggestions while delivering your presentation:
Gimmicks and Shticks: If you think some sort of gimmick will help enliven or enthuse the class, use it. In the past, groups have employed all sorts of shticks: smashing pumpkins with hammers, playing Jeopardy, making up games, role-playing, debates, etc. Remember, however, not to allow the gimmick to get in the way of the information you present. After all, this is college.
MANDATORY DEADLINES
If you have questions about the discussion, you can meet with me whenever you want. You MUST, however, do the following:
Two Weeks before the Discussion: Meet with me to ask any questions you have about your discussion. Arrange a meeting time in class so we can speak about your discussion at a later date in my office.
Before the Last Friday before Your Discussion: Submit your food for thought—questions to prepare the class for the readings associated with your topic—to me before the last Friday before your discussion. That way, I can look it over, make any necessary corrections, and photocopy it for distribution. For instance, if your discussion is on Wednesday, February 13, submit the food for thought to me at least one hour before class on Friday, February 8.
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Copyrighted
by Hugh Dubrulle, 2002
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