SPCH 140 - Argumentation and Debate

(Formerly SPCH 040A)

Advisory:ENGL C1000
Transfers to: UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: SPCH 140 or SPCH 240)

This course provides students with the foundational knowledge of argumentation and debate concepts and theories to successfully dissect and deliver arguments in distinct contexts and public speaking settings and to critically evaluate the arguments of others. The course emphasizes Aristotle’s ethos, pathos, and logos, audience analysis, ethics, critical listening, and effective verbal and nonverbal practices for effective argumentation. Lastly, the course includes analysis of strong evidence and the process of reasoning needed for effective arguing and presentation of arguments to live audiences. Central to this course is the learning of the foundational knowledge and practice of public speaking in a democratic society to communicate ideas through speaking in debate contexts such as to audience’s expected to refute or question the speaker’s central thesis and/or arguments.