The author, a computer science professor diagnosed with terminal cancer, explores his life, the lessons that he has learned, how he has worked to achieve his childhood dreams, and the effect of his diagnosis on him and his family.

The only two-level series that prepares students for success in both presentations and academic discussions, Speech Communication Made Simple takes an interactive, accessible approach to building confidence as a speaker. Students learn how to present in a variety of genres, effectively use voice and props, and lead or participate in discussions. With its lighthearted and engaging approach, the text helps students acquire speech communication and listening skills that they can apply immediately and throughout their lives. Features: Varied speech genres that range from personal story to persuasive. Broad array of projects including interviews and group discussions. Scaffolded approach that includes directed discussion of a model presentation; skill-building exercises for selecting a topic, organizing information, and more; practicing aloud; and finally, delivering a speech. Pronunciation Practice that focuses on American English pronunciation patterns that are difficult for most non-native speakers of English. Playing with Sayings section that presents idiomatic sayings in popular use and related activities to help students understand and use them to enhance their spoken communication. Useful language boxes that illustrate effective ways to begin speeches or participate in discussion. CD-ROM with MP3 audio that includes sample speeches and all pronunciation activities Teacher's manual (available separately at http://pearsoneltusa.com/speechcom) with teaching suggestions, answer keys, and quizzes.

Lucas' "The Art of Public Speaking" is the leading public speaking textbook in the field. Whether a novice or an experienced speaker when beginning the course, every student will learn how to be a better public speaker through Lucas' clear explanations. Creative activities, vivid examples, annotated speech samples, and foundation of classic and contemporary rhetoric provide students a strong understanding of public speaking. When instructors teach from this textbook, they benefit from Lucas' Integrated Teaching Package. The Annotated Instructor's Edition and Instructor's Manual, both written by Steve Lucas, provide teaching tips and give outlines on how to use the various supplements. As a result, instructors are able to see various teaching examples, how to integrate technology, and analyses and discussion questions for video clips in class. The Annotated Instructor's Edition, Instructor's Manual, Test Bank, CDs, videos, and other supplements provide instructors the tools needed to create a dynamic classroom. This edition has a supplement to meet the needs of online classes, Teaching Public Speaking Online with The Art of Public Speaking.