Speaking to persuade: Motivating audiences with solid arguments and moving language

Professionals need to be able argue but not be argumentative. You are making arguments whether you are raising money for a charity, pitching a business plan, or proposing changes to company policy. When arguing for your topic, it is important to raise awareness, identify a pressing issue, outline appropriate solutions, and provide specific steps for your audience.

Clear communication is key to persuasive speaking. The audience may not have any prior knowledge. You must also be convincing. Your argument must convince the audience. And you must be persuasive. Clearness, strategy, topic knowledge, style, and presence are all necessary for persuasive speaking.

This course will teach you how to create persuasive speeches that address problems, solutions, and motivate your audience. It is important that you are able to communicate passion and conviction through your speeches and use strategic rhetoric. Students will record speeches and receive peer feedback.