Elements of Religious Traditions

University of Phoenix Material
Communicating Effectively Worksheet
Answer the following questions, using information from this week’s readings. Respond to each question in 100 to 200 words.

1. Briefly explain the seven elements of the speech communication process. How do these elements determine a speech’s success or failure? The seven elements of the speech communication process are: Speaker, Message, Channel, Listener, Feedback, Interference, and Situation. Speaker: The person who is presenting an oral message to a listener. Message: Whatever a speaker communicated to someone else. Channel: The means by which a message is communicated. Listener: The person who receives the speaker’s message. Feedback: The messages, usually nonverbal, sent from a listener to a speaker. Interference: Anything that impedes the communication of a message. Interference can be external or internal to listeners. Situation: The time and place in which speech communication occurs. How the elements interact with each other is sometimes vital to the success or failure of the speech, itself.

2. What is the difference between hearing and listening? What are some techniques you could employ to improve your listening skills? The difference between hearing and listening is that; let’s say with hearing, you can hear someone speak without listening to the words or paying attention as well. Hearing is defined as the physical measurement of the sound waves that are transmitted to the ear and into the brain where they are processed into audible information. As to listening, it goes far beyond your natural hearing process. Paying attention to the words that are being spoken with the intention of understanding the other person.

3. Compare the four methods of delivering oral presentations. What are the benefits and drawbacks of each? The four methods of delivering oral presentations are reading from a manuscript, reciting from memory, speaking impromptu and speaking extemporaneously. Manuscript speech is a speech that is written out word for word and read to the audience. Manuscript delivery should avoid reading word for word, otherwise the speaker risks sounding mechanical. Reciting from memory involves memorizing a speech word for word. This can run the risk of sounding as mechanical as the manuscript method. As in the manuscript method, memorizing key talking points gives the speaker a more personal approach. Speaking impromptu is a speech delivered with little or no immediate preparation. In situations like this, speakers should do everything in their power to take a few minutes to prepare themselves. Organizing a speech and breaking it down into parts is a quick way to mentally prepare a speech. And speaking extemporaneously is a carefully prepared and rehearsed speech that is presented from a brief set of notes. In addition, the delivery is practiced, recited, and main points are memorized. Typically, a speaker uses an outline for the main points and the exact wording is not concrete until the delivery is given.

4. What are some ways to use your voice and body effectively when giving an oral presentation? In which areas do you need to improve? When giving an oral presentation, it is important that you try to modulate your voice and make sure you have a loud voice for everybody to hear. Also, making sure your words are clear and having a good body posture is a good way to give oral presentations.