- Think about a special occasion speech that you would like to present on a topic of your choice.
- The speech can be for any context and any length, but the purpose must be to commemorate an occasion. See the list of example occasions for inspiration.
- Download and answer each question in the Unit 1 Touchstone Template based on the speech you are thinking of: Touchstone1Template.doc
- Consider your audience, purpose, and thesis. Answer each of the questions related to audience, purpose, and thesis. Answer in detail, using complete sentences.
- Review the rubric to ensure that you understand how you will be evaluated. Contact a Sophia learning coach with any questions.
- Review the checklist and requirements to ensure that your Touchstone is complete.
- Submit your completed Unit 1 Touchstone Template on Sophia.
Touchstone Support Videos
Connecting your Audience, Purpose, and Message
Analyzing your Audience
Example Speech Occasions
Personal
- Speech at a graduation
- Toast at a wedding or other party
- Eulogy at a funeral
Academic
- Presenting an award for academic work (paper, research, report)
- Accepting an award for original creative work
Community
- Speech at a community gathering (PTA meeting, boy/girl scout convention, town hall, homeowner’s association, athletic league, school board meeting, etc.)
Business
- Celebrating staff at a company retreat
- Sharing a professional milestone
Submission checklist
_ I have completed all aspects of the template.
_ I have answered each question using complete sentences.
_ My answers demonstrate thoughtful consideration of each question.
_ I have adhered to all of the length and formatting requirements.
_ I have read through the rubric and I understand how my Touchstone will be evaluated.
Requirements
- Answer each question with 1 to 3 complete sentences
- Your responses should be 300 to 500 words in total
- All writing must be appropriate for an academic context
- Follow academic writing conventions (correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting)
- Composition must be original and written for this assignment; plagiarism of any kind is strictly prohibited
- Use a readable 12-point font, double-spaced with 1-inch margins
- Submission should include your name, the name of the course, the date, and the title of your composition
- Submit a single file only, including the answers to all questions
- Acceptable file formats include .doc and .docx.
