Students in groups of 3-5 will select a topic from which they will prepare a presentation or activity for class. Topics will incorporate and demonstrate an associated theory. Each group will lead the class in exploration and discussion of the materials. The exercise should outline 2-4 achievable objectives and involve class participation, observation, demonstration, or reading as a way to incorporate that week's assigned material. You should plan to "debrief" the class as part of the exercise. The key is to teach us by way of active learning about one very specific aspect of communication theory or to highlight one very specific aspect of communication theory in action.

You are not to lecture or simply provide a synopsis of the theory. Be interesting!

Time limit will be determined based upon class size and dynamic. Creativity is highly encouraged. Keep in mind that this is a communication class, so this is also an exercise in excellent communication skills.

In addition to the in-class exercise, the presentation should be accompanied by a paper (about 2 pages) outlining and explaining the chosen theory, objectives, rationale, and application. Papers are due the class period after your presentation. Realize that your paper is expected to be more detailed than your presentation. In this paper you will also comment on the success or failure of your exercise.

This is a group project. Therefore, you will assist me in evaluating each member’s contributions. You will give each group member a score of 1,2, or 3 for their participation in the project. (1 = outstanding, 2 = average, 3 = poor.) Scores will be assigned for Time Commitment, Contribution Effort, and an Overall score. I will use these scores in assigning individual grades for the group project.

Here are some hints for a successful presentation/activity:

2 Come to me for help — early.

3. Seek out interesting resources and/or activities.

4. Ask yourself is you would want to sit through this….

5. Split up the duties fairly.

6. Check your timing — don’t be too long (45 minutes) or too short (10 minutes.)

7. Ask yourselves, "What do we want our class to learn?"

8. Have fun!

Note: Since this is a presentation, you are expected to dress appropriately — which means "professional or corporate casual dress." No flip-flops, midriff tops, exposed boxers, ball caps, etc. etc. etc.! Remember, your audience determines your credibility in the first SEVEN seconds. So do I.