6th Grade Intro.

to Speech/Debate/Drama
Belle Isle Enterprise Middle School
Teacher:
Classroom:
Plan Period:
Contact:

Ms. Le
C-100
A2 & B2 - 10:15-11:45
587-6600; vtle@okcps.org

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Introduction to Speech, Debate, and Drama is a 9 week rotation class.
The class will spend the first 3 weeks learning simple Speech techniques and public speaking
skills, as well as audience etiquette.
2nd three weeks will be spent on basic debate rules and techniques. Students will debate in
groups and one-on-one over broad topics. Debate teaches students to be able to see both sides of
arguments, and not to choose sides purely based on emotions.
Last three weeks will be Drama. Students will learn basic drama rules and start improvisation
scenes and some class skits.
This class is demanding of social interaction, group participation, creativity, and open-mindedness.
STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO:
1. Perform alone and in groups.
2. Exhibit appropriate audience behavior (in class & during performances).
3. Turn in required written work prior to performance.
4. Participate in all class activities, discussions and debates.
NECESSARY SUPPLIES: BRING THESE TO EACH CLASS PERIOD.
1. Agenda
2. Folder/binder for keeping materials organized
3. Pencil or blue/black pen
Wish List:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Magazines
Donations to Drama Program for costumes and set
Crazy hats, props, jewelry
Glue Sticks

CLASSROOM PROCEDURES:
1. Sit in your assigned seat and begin working immediately on the warm-up activity.
2. Homework and other completed assignments are to be placed in your class folder.
3. You do not need to ask permission to sharpen your pencil, get a tissue, or borrow paper/pencil.
Please do it without disturbing others. If you borrow paper or pencil too often I will quickly run
out. Please be considerate and replace what you borrow.

4. When you need to use the restroom, please wait until a convenient time to ask permission. Sign
out by the door.
5. CHECK YOUR AGENDA! Notification of all due dates will be posted on the agenda each day.
Write the agenda down each day. Dont come to class and say you didnt know there was an
assignment.
6. COME SEE ME! If you are having trouble with anything, please talk to me about it. There is
always a positive solution to the problem and I am happy to help you find it. It would hurt my
feelings if you got lost and didnt ask for my help.
Consequences for inappropriate behavior will be in alignment with the BIEMS Discipline Plan utilizing
the mark system.
GRADING POLICY
Grades are based on the following criteria:
1. Participation & Preparation student will participate in daily class activities, exercises and
discussions; student will arrive to class with all necessary materials (notebook, pencil, paper,
assignment). This includes being prepared for in-class speeches or debates.
2. Assignments written and performance-based assignments or tests
3. You do not have to be a world class speaker to excel in this class. Just demonstrate that you did
your best, understood the concepts of each unit and are making progress.
4. I grade on a Standard Based Grading Scale.
4- (100%) Knows the material frontwards and backwards and can teach it and think
critically. Master level.
3- (93%) Proficient-- understands it well.
2- (75%) Needs more explanation and help. Almost grasping it.
1- (60%) Information is like a foreign language-- not understanding at all.
0- (50%) No evidence of understanding.
TESTS
The following procedure will be followed regarding written test-taking:
1. Students will receive a reminder and basic information two class periods before the written test.
2. Students will receive a detailed review one class period before the written test.
3. Students who are absent on one of the above days will still be held responsible to take the test.
4. Students who are absent on both days will be responsible for taking the test one class period
after they return to class.
5. Students who are present for both days, but absent for the test will be responsible for taking the
test upon returning to class.
ATTENDANCE
If you are absent, it is your responsibility to take care of makeup work. Please check with me or the
class agenda book for missed assignments and get missed notes from the website or a friend. IT IS UP
TO YOU TO SCHEDULE A TIME TO MAKE UP A MISSED TEST.