Merry Christmas!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qL56qqwlsRc

One More Day . . .

The kids have to get through one more day of finals, and I have to get through one more day of grading. I think we can do it.

Is it wrong . . .

that I still love to get toys for Christmas?  I hope not!

Follow Through

If you start something, finish it.

If you do something, do it right.

Popcorn and Guitars

I'll be dominating the popcorn popper at the game tonight, and the Art Club will be selling raffle tix for this year's guitar. Check it out!  It's awesome!

Online Shopping

Why does it have to be such a hassle?

Crazy Day

NASCAR!!!!

Dale Jr.!!!!

Disappointment . . .

When I walk through the parking lot after working a shift at my second job, I am frequently met with a wonderful aroma from a nearby restaurant. Yesterday, I went to that restaurant and was quite disappointed. On a scale of 1-10, my meal was, at best, a 2. The taste was nowhere near as good as the smell.  :(

Things I Like

Guitars
Music
Candy
Naps
Dogs
Christmas Decorations

Weather

Snow and ice are on the way.
I wish I had an awesome sleigh.
In the snow I love to play.
I wish that it were here today!

Sleeping Students . . .

 . . . drive me crazy! I don't think it's too much to ask for a student to STAY AWAKE during my class! I find that behavior very rude.

A Lot of People Have It Wrong

The way some people behave on "Black Friday" is disturbing. Pushing, shoving, scrambling, and fighting for the "right" to snap up some amazing bargain seems to be contrary to the true Christmas spirit that people should possess and display.

Generosity

It's a good thing. When you receive it, be thankful, and be sure to pass it on to someone else at some time.

I Think I'm Going Slightly Mad

I'm having one of those days . . . 

IMEA Concert

My family and I thoroughly enjoyed the IMEA concert at EIU on Saturday. The weather was bitterly cold, but the high quality of the music performance was worth the effort. Congratulations to all the IMEA participants, especially those from NHS!

Speeches, Speeches, Speeches!!!

English IA students are wrapping up their Personal Experience speeches today, and Intro to Speech students will be wrapping up their Persuasive speeches next week. Four hours a day . . . speeches, speeches, speeches!

Guest Speaker

Thanks to Greg Powers from Lake Land College's Radio/TV department for coming to speak to students in Media Studies today. The presentation was informative, and he gave away t-shirts and pens!

Midterm

Last Friday was midterm for Quarter 2. Students and parents, please check grades online and feel free to contact me regarding any concerns you may have.

Home Gym

Thanks to my friend Mario, I'm getting a home gym tonight. Three questions come to mind.

1. Will I be able to put it together?

2. Where will I put it?

3. Will I actually use it?

Vacuum Tubes

Where would be without them? Don't get me wrong, transistors and computer chips are cool, but tubes? Remember how they'd light up the back of your TV, and how we'd have to wait for them to warm up before the picture appeared? Do you remember that smell they'd make after warming up? I always liked that smell.

Sub Days

Mrs. Anderson did a good job filling in for me the past two days, and the students did a good job of cooperating with her. Thank you!

It's Cold!

I don't like it.

I know it will get worse.

I wish I could hibernate through the winter like a bear.

A New Record

85 views of this blog on November 4th! I'm not sure how it happened, but it's kinda cool!

School Improvement Essays

Students in English II are working on their second essay for me. This time, it's a persuasive essay regarding areas of improvement for NHS. As a member of the school improvement committee, I'll be sharing their finished essays with the committee and exploring possible solutions to some of the issues the students share.

Indie Music

If you're interested in some REAL, anti-Nashville, anti-corporate, alt-country music, and you're not afraid to step across the line into hardcore redneck territory, check out Trent Summar and The New Row Mob. I especially recommend the song "Paint Your Name In Purple."

Possible Skype Session

I'm waiting for confirmation, but Media Studies may be having another Skype guest speaker. Steve Haggard is the owner of Wild Oats Records in Nashville, the label that my former band was on. He's an excellent musician, songwriter, producer, and label owner, as well as a decent human. I look forward to having him speak with my students.

Recording Industry

Teaching this unit is my favorite part of my favorite class. In addition to the wealth of information in our textbook, I have extensive experience in the music industry. I am sharing with the students various nuggets of knowledge I've acquired from my Nashville experience, as well as some amazing pics from the photo shoot for my unreleased solo album, and numerous stellar (and not so stellar) examples of indie music.  Most of the students seem to appreciate these efforts. Now, if I could get those select few to TRY TO STAY AWAKE, I would be pleased.

Descriptive Paragraphs

Students in English IA are working on writing descriptive paragraphs. Their first one was a description of a place, and their second one is about a person. Any guesses as to what the third one will be?

Missing Items

If any of you know where the Cardinals left their bats, please inform team management before Game 6.

Recording Industry

Seniors in Media Studies began perusing the chapter in their text covering the recording industry. This is my favorite chapter in the course since I have a lot of personal experience to share. I hope they find the chapter as informative and interesting as I do.

Field Trip

Art Club went to the Art Institute of Chicago yesterday, and I got to drive! Leaving Chicago in rush hour traffic in a mini bus was a bit challenging. Seeing Van Gogh's self-portrait and Grant Wood's American Gothic in person was a memorable experience. We also had one of the best lunches I've ever experienced at the Wild Berry Pancake cafe'.

To Kill A Mockingbird

We just finished the novel last week and are finishing the movie today in English II. After the movie, we will be starting to work on improving essay writing skills. Of course, the first essay will be focused on To Kill A Mockingbird, either the book or the movie.

Lock It Down!

Come on, Cardinals! Bring your bats to the game tonight and get this thing over with!

Mr. Davis Visit

Mr. Davis took time from his busy schedule to speak to the seniors in Media Studies today. His presentation covered nine hot new careers and what seniors should be doing right now to prepare for college. The session was very informative, and I hope the students follow his sound advice. He plans to do the same presentation with a different group of seniors in Intro to Speech in the near future.

Project

Seniors in Media Studies are beginning a project connected to the Radio and Recording industries. Using an incredible piece of software called Sony Acid Pro, they will compose original songs and then record themselves as DJs introducing their songs. The project is a lot of fun; the software is fun and easy to use, and the students get first hand experience in music production.

Informative Speeches

Seniors in Intro to Speech will be delivering their informative speeches today and tomorrow. I look forward to hearing a lot of interesting information on a wide variety of topics.

Breakfast of Champions

I outdid myself today.

Li'l chocolate donuts
Oreos
Chocolate chip cookies with M&M's
Cream soda
Vanilla coffee with hot chocolate mixed in
20 oz. Coke Classic

Some days require extra sugar and caffeine.

Guest Speaker

Daniel W. from Bavaria utilized Skype to be a guest speaker for Media Studies this morning. The students and I learned about German media in general, Daniel's earlier career in free lance reporting, and his current career as head of communications for a VERY large non-profit Christian Welfare agency. The session was very informative and entertaining. Much thanks to Daniel for taking time from his busy schedule to "travel across the ocean and talk to us."

Coke Zero

What did I ever do without it?

Guest Speaker

Much thanks to Rodi P. from Connecticut for taking the time to speak to Media Studies class via video conference. We had some technical glitches, but we made it through and learned a great deal about the production/graphic design aspects of print media. It's strange how we take certain things for granted, such as fonts, but they can really have a lot of impact on a printed product. I challenge you to pay more attention to such "details" that surround you every day and consider how things would be different if a designer chose a different font. A lot of time, effort, and creativity have gone into the creation of these "details," and we should put more thought into how we use them.

I Like Chocolate

For breakfast, chocolate chip granola bars followed by coffee mixed with hot chocolate. After lunch, two Twix bars for dessert followed by more coffee with hot chocolate. Later tonight, maybe a box of Whoppers malted milk chocolate candy. Do you think I'm hooked?

Updates

Skype is now working, and I'm excited to have guest speakers from Connecticut and Germany talk to the students in Media Studies. Also, on an unrelated note, Cards beat the Pirates last night. WooHoo!

Skype

I have a couple of guest speakers lined up for Media Studies next week via Skype. The camera is working, but Skype is being difficult. Hopefully, we can get it ironed out soon.

It has been settled . . .

The Pirates beat the Reds last night and settled the Wild Card debate. Now, Pittsburgh travels to St. Louis for a good, old-fashioned baseball beatdown! Go Cards!

To Kill a Mockingbird

Students in English II are progressing through Tom Robinson's trial. The level of disbelief and disgust at the verdict is very high. How could the members of the jury return such a verdict of hearing the blatantly false testimony of the Ewells? How could Tom, with his useless left arm, have even committed the crime?

Guest Speaker

Seniors enrolled in Media Studies had the opportunity to listen to an excellent guest speaker this morning. Kayleigh Zyskowski from the Mattoon Journal Gazette did an excellent job in her presentation, and the students and I found it very informative and interesting.

Clincher!

I predict the Cardinals will clinch the NL Central title tonight versus the unfortunate Cubbies. World Series, here we come!

Cross Country

Today's meet is at LLC. I'm going to cheer on the team. Are you?

WooHoo!

The Cards' magic number is 3! Central Division champs again, and World Series Champs too!  I called it!

Procession

I am proud of the NHS students, faculty, and staff for honoring Randy Lane, Neoga Class of 1988, at his funeral procession. During the long wait period, some students were restless, but when the cars arrived, you could've heard a pin drop. Moments like that make me proud to be a member of this school and this community.

Newsies

Seniors in Media Studies recently watched the Disney movie "Newsies" as a prelude to our study of the print media industries. The movie, which is a musical, is based on the true story of NYC newboys going on strike against one of the most powerful men in the world, Joseph Pulitzer. Many aspects of the movie are historically accurate, and it gives a really good view of newspapers and journalism in that time frame. Also, it features Christian Bale in one of his earlier roles as Jack Kelly.

A Tasty Treat

Thanks to Dalton G. for this great little idea!  Add a spoonful of hot chocolate mix to your empty cup, put it under your single-cup coffee maker, and brew your cup. The hot coffee mixes with the cocoa, and VOILA! Awesome!

Seven Years

Seven years ago yesterday, September 17th, 2006, my dad passed away from colon cancer. My mom said, and I agree, "It's kind of strange that in some ways it seems like yesterday, and in some ways it seems like forever." I think there will always be a void in my life since he's been gone.

Mid Term

FYI, today is mid term for first quarter. Parents and students should be sure to check grades for each class using the online grade book. If anyone wants to discuss grades, please feel free to send me an email. I, and other faculty members, will be contacting parents of students who have D's or F's in our classes.

Retail Observations

I've noticed that some retail stores had their Halloween displays out in August, and now I'm seeing the start of Christmas displays. It's still September, right?

Macy May

Lawn Care

I don't know how you all feel, but I'm tired of mowing. Usually, the July heat kills my lawn, and I'm fine with that. This year, however, we didn't really get that heat wave, and my lawn is still growing, at least, parts of it are. While I welcome the rain and the break in temperatures, I'm not very excited about the growth spurt my lawn will demonstrate.

Open House

Wow! I think that was the busiest Open House I've ever had! I really enjoyed meeting everyone new and catching up with parents I've met before. I truly appreciate your interest in your children's education. Feel free to contact me via email if you ever have any questions or anything. Here's my email address:

mgibson@neoga.k12.il.us

Heat

Near 100 degree temps in mid-September??? This is crazy!!!

Baseball

I've been so busy, I haven't had the opportunity to watch many games this summer, but I'm glad to see the Cardinals are coming out of their annual post-All Star Game slump. They're back in first place and headed for another World Series victory!

Cross Country Meet

Congratulations to the cross country runners on yesterday's meet. They powered through the heat and humidity to run a good race. I know it wasn't as bad out as the SIU-E meet last weekend, but it still wasn't easy. Good job!

I don't feel good!

I don't know if it's a head cold, or sinuses, or allergies, or what, but I don't like it. My head is stuffy; my nose is runny, and I'm dog tired. At least I'm still on the right side of the grass.

Thesis

If anyone is interested in some academic media research, I am willing to share my Master's Thesis. I finished my degree in 2007 and wrote my thesis about military recruitment ads on Channel One News. If you would like to read the study, send an email to me, and I'll send you a copy of the file.

Concert Alert!

October 19th at the Effingham Performance Center. "The Winery Dogs" is a new band with three INCREDIBLY talented musicians: Billy Sheehan, Richie Kotzen, and Mike Portnoy, former members of Mr. Big and Dream Theater. I can't imagine a much worse band name, but the music makes up for it. Check this live clip, and you'll see what I mean.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2IQlu6Z599A

As always, I'm not responsible for any inappropriate ads, comments, or anything else that might show up on Youtube. My sole intent is to share some cool music with you.

Intro to Speech Syllabus

Please note that text in purple is applicable only when I teach this course as a night or summer class on LLC campus or at Kluthe Center. These sections/policies do not necessarily apply to dual credit students taking this course at NHS. I left the sections in the syllabus for dual credit students to see the college level policies that they might encounter in the future. NHS rules for attendance and makeup work trump the purple sections of this syllabus.

Lake Land College

SPE 111 Introduction to Speech Communication

Martin D. Gibson—Fall 2013

Course Description:

Focuses on the fundamental principles and methods of selection, analyzing, organizing, developing and communicating information, evidence, and points of view to audiences.

Credit:

3 hours

Course Objectives:

General Objectives: Introduction to basic oral communication principles and skills.  Includes study and practice in public speaking, discussion, preparation, organization, and delivery techniques.

Specific Objectives:  At the end of the course, students will (should) have the following competencies in public communication.

1.      The student will (should) be able to realize that nervousness is normal.

2.      The student will (should) be able to channel their nervousness rather than eliminate it.

3.      The student will (should) be able to reflect on performance and criticisms given by others to develop as a speaker and deliver future speeches with less anxiety.

4.      The student will (should) be able to divide the speech into key ideas using an acceptable organizational pattern.

5.      The student will (should) be able to connect the parts of the speech and the main points with proper transitional statements.

6.      The student will (should) be able to use the introduction and conclusion to create a memorable impression for the audience.

7.      The student will (should) be able to utilize a variety of research methods such as interviewing, journals, books, etc.

8.      The student will (should) be able to use APA documentation.

9.      The student will (should) be able to incorporate research in outlines and delivery.

10.  The student will (should) be able to use a variety of supporting materials to achieve clarity, vividness and credibility.

11.  The student will (should) be able to analyze every piece of evidence to ensure credibility.

12.  The student will (should) be able to evaluate online research material.

13.  The student will (should) be able to cope effectively with stage fright.

14.  The student will (should) be able to construct an effective delivery using strong voice qualities, bodily actions and clear language.

15.  The student will (should) be able to understand a variety of methods of delivery.

16.  The student will (should) be able to complement the message by using a presentational aid to add clarity, retention and impact.

17.  The student will (should) be able to design graphics that have clear layouts, fonts, color and art.

18.  The student will (should) be able to effectively use the visual aid during speech without distraction.

19.  The student will (should) be able to motivate audience members to change their values, beliefs, attitudes and/or behaviors in a persuasive speech.

20.  The student will (should) be able to move listeners sequentially through a series of steps:  attention, need, satisfaction, visualization, and action.

21.  The student will (should) be able to research a subject of choice, synthesize data, and pass it on to listeners.

22.  The student will (should) be able to expand listeners’ knowledge, assist their understanding, and aid them in applying the information shared in an informative speech of 5-7 minutes in length.

23.  The student will (should) be able to determine whether focus is to influence another person’s values, beliefs, attitudes or behaviors, then choose a type of persuasive speech:  speech to convince, inspire, or actuate.

24.  The student will (should) be able to understand the three modes of persuasion: ethos, logos, and pathos

25.  The student will (should) be able to structure propositions and logical arguments and detect flaws in reasoning.

26.  The student will (should) be able to deliver a persuasive speech of 5-8 minutes in length.

27.  The student will (should) be able to effectively deliver speeches of 2-4 minutes in length on special occasions: speech of introduction, speech of presentation, speech of welcome, acceptance speech, speech of tribute, or speech to entertain.

SPE 111 Outcomes:

Upon completion of SPE 111 (Intro to Speech) for the A.A. or the A.S. Degree, students should demonstrate the ability to:

1.  Deliver oral presentations citing supporting materials.

2.  Select and research diverse topics to present to audiences, based on audience analysis.

3.  Be active listeners as they evaluate persuasive speeches.  The audience members’ original ideas are intensified, instilled, or changed.

4.  Analyze demographics and psychographics as they prepare to present speeches to culturally diverse audiences.

5.  Take into account how the message will affect audience members and society as a whole when they deliver speeches.

6.  Consider ethical dilemmas when they approach topic selection, especially with persuasive issues.

7.  Utilize critical thinking skills when formulating persuasive and reflective-thinking presentations.

8.  Utilize technology (i.e. PowerPoint) to create visual aids, conduct research, or to connect group speeches.

Course Expectations:

As the student, you are expected to read the assigned material BEFORE class, and be ready to DISCUSS the material in class.  You should come to class prepared to take notes. 

As a Lake Land College student, you are expected to adhere to the code of conduct (including cheating and plagiarism) outlined in the student handbook.

Changes To Syllabus:

The instructor has the prerogative to adjust the day-to-day schedule in the event of class cancellations or other unforeseen circumstances.  If, for any reason, classes are cancelled, take the same assignment for the next class meeting.

Attendance Policy:

Attendance is required throughout the term and is included in the grading procedure as part of the Participation grade.  Each absence will result in a 10 point deduction on your Participation grade in addition to missing points available in class that night.    Arriving to class late and/or leaving early will also result in point deductions from your Participation grade.  No more than two absences are allowed.  Three or more absences will result in automatic failure of the class.  (There is no distinction between excused and unexcused.) 

NO MAKE-UP SPEECHES OR MAKE-UP TESTS ARE ALLOWED.  Furthermore, you must deliver at least two of the three speeches.  Failure to do so will result in automatic failure of the course. 

Should an emergency arise, please contact the instructor BEFORE the next class period.  It is the responsibility of the student to obtain lecture notes and assignments for the following class period. 

Assignments will not be accepted late unless you have a documented emergency causing you to miss class.  This may include, but is not necessarily limited to the following:  car wreck, hospitalization, death in the immediate family, etc.  Late work may be subject to a 25% point deduction.

*The definition of late is if the assignment (homework, reading, outline, etc.) is not completed and/or not in your possession upon arrival in class.  Do not have your assignment on an electronic format and expect that to count.  Electronic submissions will not be accepted unless prior arrangements have been made with instructor. “My printer died,” is not a valid excuse.

Method of Evaluation:

All assignments will be graded on a point basis.  Your grade will be determined by the following:

            Participation                                         100 pts.

            6 Quizzes @ 25 pts. each                     150 pts.

            3 Tests @ 100 pts. each                       300 pts.

            3 Outlines @ 50 pts. each                     150 pts.

            3 Speeches @ 100 pts. each                300 pts.

            Total                                                  1000 pts.           

Grading Procedures:

Final grades are based on the following distribution:

A         90%-100%

B          80%-89%

C         70%-79%

D         63%-69%

F          62% and below

Certain items and substances may not be brought into the classroom.  (Hence, the student will not be allowed to perform speeches on any of these items.)  These items include, but may not be limited to, firearms, ammunition, explosives, weapons, gasoline, other combustibles, illegal drugs, alcohol, and/or live animals.

Method of Presentation:

Classes will include lectures, discussion, student presentations, speeches, videos, and small group activities.

Text:

Mastering Public Speaking by George L. Grice and John F. Skinner.  8^th edition

Additional handouts and readings may be required by instructor

Instructor:

Martin D. Gibson, M.S.

Email: mgibson@neoga.k12.il.us (NHS) 

            mgibson948@lakeland.cc.il.us (LLC)

Other Items of Importance:

Ridicule and/or impolite behavior during a class period will result in automatic removal from the course. 

All electronic devices, such as beepers, pagers, laptops, and cell phones, are to be turned off upon entering the classroom.  Students are not allowed to leave the class to answer any of these devices and then allowed to re-enter the classroom.

Text messaging (or using similar distracting phone apps) during class time is not allowed.  Deliberate use of electronic communications devices during class will result in dismissal from class for that evening and point deduction from Participation grade.  A second instance will result in automatic removal from the course.   

Lake Land College is committed to providing equal educational opportunities for all persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability. 

Media Studies Course Guidelines

                             Media Studies

General Course Guidelines

Mr. Gibson

Supplies Needed                    Textbook

                                                Folder and Paper

                                                Blue or Black Pen

Other specified materials as indicated in class.  You may be                                     required to bring in a newspaper, watch a TV program, listen to the radio, etc.

Expectations                           Assignments are due at the beginning of class unless otherwise specified.  Late assignments will not be accepted.

                                                Students are responsible for identifying any work to be made up due to absence.  Absences must be made up according to the student handbook guidelines.

                                                Class discussions, group projects, creative endeavors, etc. are a privilege.  Students are expected to participate and to exercise behavior that will promote, not interfere with, others’ learning experiences.

Classroom Management       Students are expected to enter the room in a quiet, orderly manner and be in their seats and silent when the bell rings.  Students are expected to remain in their seats until dismissed by the teacher.

                                                Respect for the teacher, other students, school property, and yourself, is expected.

                                                Classroom misconduct will be dealt with according to the attached Discipline Policy.  Student and Parent/Guardian are to sign and return policy.

Tools For Evaluation             10 pts.  Pop Quizzes

20 pts.  Daily assignments/Group participation

                                                25 pts. Chapter Review

40 pts.  Major Quizzes

                                                100 pts. Tests/Major Projects

Grading Scale                         A =93-100

                                                A-=90-92

                                                B+=88-89

                                                B =83-87

                                                B-=80-82

                                                C+=78-79

                                                C =73-77

                                                C-=70-72

                                                D+=68-69

                                                D =63-67

                                                D-=60-62

                                                F =0-59

Teacher Help                         I want all students to succeed in this class.  If you are having problems, it is your responsibility to ask me for help.  I will be available at various times throughout the day.  Please see me to schedule a convenient time.  For your reference, my daily schedule is posted on the bulletin board.

Harassment                            Neoga CUSD#3 does not tolerate acts of harassment, including acts of harassment based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, ancestry, age, order of protection status, marital status, physical or mental disability, military status, sexual orientation, or other protected classes. Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to harassment or a hostile environment is encouraged to report the act to district personnel. The students found to have engaged in acts of harassment or those that contribute to a hostile environment based on race, color, or national origin are subject to discipline up through and including suspension and expulsion. The district encourages students, parents, and District staff to work together to prevent acts of harassment of any kind.

English II Course Guidelines

                                English II

General Course Guidelines

Mr. Gibson

Supplies Needed                    Textbook

                                                Folder and Paper

                                                Blue or Black Pen

Other specified materials as indicated in class.

Expectations                           Assignments are due at the beginning of class unless otherwise specified.  Late assignments will not be accepted.

                                                Students are responsible for identifying any work to be made up due to absence.  Absences must be made up according to the student handbook guidelines.

                                                Class discussions, group projects, creative endeavors, etc. are a privilege.  Students are expected to participate and to exercise behavior that will promote, not interfere with, others’ learning experiences.

                                               

Classroom Management       Students are expected to enter the room in a quiet, orderly manner and be in their seats and silent when the bell rings.  Students are expected to remain in their seats until dismissed by the teacher.

                                                Respect for the teacher, other students, school property, and yourself, is expected.

                                                Classroom misconduct will be dealt with according to the attached Discipline Policy.  Student and Parent/Guardian are to sign and return policy.

Tools For Evaluation             10 pts.  Pop Quizzes

20 pts.  Daily assignments/Group participation

                                                25 pts. Chapter Review

40 pts.  Major Quizzes

                                                100 pts. Tests/Major Projects

Grading Scale                         A =93-100

                                                A-=90-92

                                                B+=88-89

                                                B =83-87

                                                B-=80-82

                                                C+=78-79

                                                C =73-77

                                                C-=70-72

                                                D+=68-69

                                                D =63-67

                                                D-=60-62

                                                F =0-59

Teacher Help                         I want all students to succeed in this class.  If you are having problems, it is your responsibility to ask me for help.  I will be available at various times throughout the day.  Please see me to schedule a convenient time.  For your reference, my daily schedule is posted on the bulletin board.

Harassment                            Neoga CUSD#3 does not tolerate acts of harassment, including acts of harassment based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, ancestry, age, order of protection status, marital status, physical or mental disability, military status, sexual orientation, or other protected classes. Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to harassment or a hostile environment is encouraged to report the act to district personnel. The students found to have engaged in acts of harassment or those that contribute to a hostile environment based on race, color, or national origin are subject to discipline up through and including suspension and expulsion. The district encourages students, parents, and District staff to work together to prevent acts of harassment of any kind.