Oral communication introduces the art of public speaking with an emphasis on preparation and delivery of a variety of speeches. Students receive instruction and practice in the selection, organization, and presentation of speech materials and the opportunity to develop social poise and self-confidence.
Students practice the process of writing expository essays. They improve their grammar, punctuation, diction, manuscript mechanics, sentence sense, paragraph composition, revising, editing, and proofreading skills. Students submit short essays employing various rhetorical styles (such as comparison/contrast, process analysis, division/classification, cause/effect, and definition). They also submit a final paper.
Provides an overview of basic techniques students need to write effectively during and after a college education. The process of writing (including prewriting, planning, research, organization, format, and revision) is explored and practiced in detail. Students learn to take a position on a topic, support it with evidence, and address opposing points of view.
Surveys the development of music and the arts to broaden knowledge and appreciation of culture. In addition, students learn how to critique and redeem popular arts to glorify God and serve the church.
A study of hermeneutics: the principles of interpreting Scripture and other texts that utilize the Bible. The historical-grammatical method of interpretation and application for personal spiritual growth and responsible communication will be presented to and practiced by students using sample passages.
Helps participants recognize the influence of their own cultural perspective in a cross-cultural setting, discover myriad ways we communicate beyond our spoken words, increase sensitivity to cross-cultural interactions, and become effective communicators in multiple worldview contexts.
Examines theoretical and applied communication in personal contexts. The role of listening, conversation, non-verbal cues, and communication ethics are emphasized.
Demonstrates various methods and styles of sermon construction and delivery. Students analyze model sermons, discuss vital issues in modern preaching, and develop their own skills in writing and delivering sermons.
Demonstrates various methods and styles of lesson construction and delivery in teaching contexts. Students analyze teaching styles and lessons, work together to plan and prepare lessons, and practice teaching lessons to one another.
Explores the following genre in the writings of C.S. Lewis: poetry, theology/philosophy, fantasy, children’s fiction, science fiction, and autobiography. The class balances lecture and discussion of three novels, essays, and chapter selections from other texts. Forgoing debates regarding Lewis’s doctrine on Christianity, the focus rests upon the importance of his writings while considering methods of application in the 21st century.
Provides opportunities to further develop public speaking skills in a church context. It is designed to build confidence and competency in a variety of speaking contexts, including introductions, reports, impromptu situations, interviews, and group presentations. Special attention is given to analyzing the student’s communication weaknesses and strategies to remove distractions and build speaker credibility.
Surveys the important structure, grammar, and syntax of the English language essential for non-native speakers to know. The course teaches idiosyncrasies of each language group and how that affects learning English. A variety of techniques used in teaching language structure are explored.