Thomas McCormick

Intro to Ed
Artifact 2
Description:
This artifact is the slides of one of the presentations I gave during
speech class as a freshman at University of Wisconsin-Platteville. In
speech class I learned how to effectively speak in public and the
specific techniques to use.
Wisconsin Teacher Standard Alignment:
This artifact best aligns with Standard 6: Communication The teacher
uses effective verbal and nonverbal communication techniques as well
as instructional media and technology to foster inquiry, collaboration,
and supportive interaction in the classroom.
The semester I spent in speech class practicing my communication
skills aligns well with Standard 6 because during that semester I
worked on my speaking and presenting skills with other students as
well as on my own to help hone my skills as a professional. For
example, I did a speech using a PowerPoint, which aligns with the
technology and instructional media use. One other thing that I focused
on was using hand gestures, which aligns with the nonverbal
communication aspect of this standard. As far as supportive interaction
in the classroom goes, students evaluated each others speeches to
give constructive criticism to help with future speeches. The one thing
that the class helped me with the most though was not saying um as
a filler word while I talked, and that aligns with the verbal
communication techniques aspect of Standard 6. This experience really
helped me with my public speaking and presenting skills, which is
imperative for a teacher.
UW-Platteville Knowledge, Skill, and Disposition Alignment:
This artifact best aligns with KSD3.a: Communicates Clearly and
Accurately-The candidates spoken and written language are correct,
expressive and clear, with well chosen vocabulary that enriches
teaching and communicates thoughtfully, responsively, and effectively
for a wide range of student understanding and encourages appropriate
student language development.
My time in speech class gave me the chance to practice my speaking
and communication skills in a class of my peers, as well as receive
feedback on how I might improve these skills on a weekly basis. One of
the things I was graded on in this class was my choice of words, which
aligns with the vocabulary section of this KSD. My time in this class
helped me improve all aspects of my communication skills.

After this experience, I have become more confident in my speaking

skills in front of people and I am able to communicate information very
clearly without the use of excessive filler words. I am also able to use a
lot more enthusiasm in my speaking which has also helped my
communication skills.
Secondary KSDs:
KSD3.c: Engages Students in Learning
KSD3.d: Provides Feedback to Students
KSD3.e: Demonstrates Flexibility and Responsiveness
What I Learned About Teaching From This Experience:
Through speech class I learned many new skills and techniques to
improve my teaching skills. I learned how to be clear and concise, as
well as at the same time I learned how to effectively keep students
engaged on what I have to say. I also learned how to effectively use
technology to help give information to others.
What I Learned About Myself as a Prospective Educator as a
Result of This Experience:
Though this experience I learned what I believe are the best ways to be
an effective teacher when it comes to giving something such as a
lecture to students. I learned that the use of technology, such as
PowerPoints and videos, is important to helping accommodate different
learning styles such as verbal or visual learning. I know now that I can
be an effective communicator and I am much more confident in my
skills as well.