PARAMETERS FOR GROUP DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS

Groups should follow the steps below to prepare to lead class discussions and to make final presentations.

Time  length:    15-20 minutes.

PREPARATION:

1.   Critically read the selection(s) for which you are responsible. 

2.   As you meet with your group inside and outside of class to discuss the material, identify its main points and some key passages.  Complete an element analysis to help you identify the key points (and concepts), highlight assumptions, identify the kinds of information used to build the argument in the chapters; in other words, understand how Beckwith builds his argument.

3.   Create a reading quiz to give to class at the beginning of your presentation.  You will be responsible for grading it and returning it to Dr. Martin.  Create questions that you would like to ask your classmates to discuss.  For example, how do they interpret a difficult passage?   What assumptions seem to be afoot?  Factual questions or questions that require only a yes/no answer are not appropriate.

PRESENTATION:

 1.   The organization of your "lesson plan" is less important than the presence of the following items:  some background information to place the reading material in a broader context, a summary of the reading's main points, highlights from the element analysis that show how each chapter fits into Beckwith's argument and points about marketing,  and questions to ask your classmates. Remember, you want to show the class how Beckwith is developing his argument in the chapters you are presenting.  And remember, we need to hear more analysis of the reading, less summary.  And--every member of the group must verbally be part of  the presentation.  YOU MUST ALSO PRESENT TWO-THREE ADS THAT COME FROM THE SAME AD CAMPAIGN THAT ILLUSTRATE THE PRINCIPLES BECKWITH PRESENTS IN THE READING YOU ARE ANALYZING. Be sure to present the class with an ad analysis that has depth and breadth, and not just presenting the obvious.  And remember, the presentation should not include discussion about agreement or disagreement with Beckwith, but using the elements, the presentation should be about understanding what Beckwith is saying.

2.  Please note that it is VERY appropriate to bring in supplementary material to share with your classmates.  It is also a fine idea to have the class write for the first 2-3 minutes of your presentation time about a question that your group has designed.  And you are very welcome to assign a small-group activity.  In addition, I highly recommend using visual aids such as video clips, charts, graphs, etc.  You may also create skits or other visual media to enhance the class’ understanding and exploration of Beckwith.

3.   My role during class will be to facilitate.  I will not just sit there in silence, but I want you to do as much as you can.  Bottom line, we will work together to make the class interesting and productive for you and your classmates.