Create Converse Connect—Speak Well

Liz O'Brien teaches students that to speak well is to speak responsibly, confidently, and authentically—to create well-researched and soundly constructed speeches, and to converse and connect with their audience. Through Speak Well's listener-centered approach to public speaking, in which the speaker engages in a vibrant, important conversation with listeners rather than giving a static performance, students learn that their primary purpose as speakers is to communicate ideas. The result is reduced student anxiety about speech delivery, increased self-assurance, and more authentic, successful speeches. Speak Well also offers invaluable practical strategies throughout the speechmaking process, demonstrating that effective public speaking is about learning to make responsible choices across different speaking situations.

So, how is this accomplished in Speak Well? A combination of unique chapter presentations, step-by-step discussions of core skills and techniques, and useful supporting features helps students focus on responsible speech development and delivery that successfully engages their listeners.