Communication Skills
Practice Questions
Course Introduction
Communication Skills is a foundational course designed to enhance students ability to convey ideas effectively and confidently in both verbal and written forms. The course covers the principles of interpersonal, intercultural, and group communication, as well as the importance of active listening and nonverbal cues. Students will practice crafting clear messages, participating in constructive discussions, and adapting their communication style to different audiences and situations. Through presentations, group work, and written assignments, learners develop critical soft skills essential for academic, professional, and social success.
Recommended Textbook
Stand Up Speak Out The Practice and Ethics of Public Speaking v2.0 by Jason S. Wrench
Available Study Resources on Quizplus
19 Chapters
1414 Verified Questions
1414 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/study-set/3250
Page 2
Chapter 1: Why Public Speaking Matters Today
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
58 Verified Questions
58 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64546
Sample Questions
Q1) Discuss the importance of intellectual capital.
Answer: "Intellectual capital," the combination of your knowledge and ability to communicate that knowledge to others,is used by thought leaders to contribute new ideas that help society.
Q2) Meanings are in people,not words.
A)True
B)False
Answer: True
Q3) Public speaking can help an individual develop her or his leadership skills.
A)True
B)False
Answer: True
Q4) The Grecian concept of epideictic speaking most closely relates to the modern understanding of informative speaking.
A)True
B)False
Answer: False
Q5) Verbal,nonverbal,and mediated are all examples of communication
Answer: channels
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above. Page 3
Chapter 2: Ethics Matters: Understanding the Ethics of
Public Speaking
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
66 Verified Questions
66 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64547
Sample Questions
Q1) As an ethical listener,how do you act toward a speaker with whom you don't agree?
Answer: If everyone only listened to one source of information,then we would be easily manipulated and controlled.As listeners or consumers of communication,we should realize that this diversity of perspectives enables us to be more fully informed on a subject.Listening to diverse perspectives includes being willing to hear dissenting voices.Ethical communicators will be receptive to dissent,no matter how strongly they may disagree with the speaker's message because they realize that a society that forbids dissent cannot function democratically.
Q2) The NCS Credo for Ethical Communication is a set of laws governing the language of speeches.
A)True
B)False
Answer: False
Q3) Explain why it is important for citizens to pay attention to judicial decisions that affect free speech.
Answer: The concept of "free speech" and what it actually means is constantly being debated by politicians and judges alike,so it is important to stay informed on the latest developments regarding free speech.
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above. Page 4
Chapter 3: Speaking Confidently
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
89 Verified Questions
89 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64548
Sample Questions
Q1) Memorizing a speech word-for-word is:
A)the best way to make sure you don't forget details.
B)a guarantee of a polished delivery.
C)likely to make your anxiety worse,not better.
D)the most effective strategy for reducing communication anxiety.
E)a way to be perceived as an outstanding speaker.
Answer: C
Q2) Trait anxiety refers to a speaker who:
A)dislikes speaking when there is little time to prepare.
B)finds it difficult to speak in a formal setting.
C)generally fears communication more than the average person.
D)has a fear of facing an audience that includes high status listeners.
E)is fearful only until he or she gains experience.
Answer: C
Q3) What should a speaker do with regard to her or his visual aids prior to speaking in order to prevent problems resulting from technical difficulties?
Answer: Answers will vary but should include that a backup plan for technical difficulties,especially involving visual aids,should be developed in order to fully prepare the speaker for her or his presentation.
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above.
Page 5
Chapter 4: The Importance of Listening
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
122 Verified Questions
122 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64549
Sample Questions
Q1) Physiological noise occurs when the listener:
A)can't pay attention because of financial or other worries.
B)has difficulty hearing because of loud sounds in the area.
C)is hungry,cold,or otherwise physically uncomfortable.
D)is preoccupied in anticipating the upcoming weekend.
E)is uninterested in the topic of the speech.
Q2) Explain psychological noise and give an example.
Q3) A content-oriented listener focuses on the educational background of a speaker.
A)True
B)False
Q4) If you are assigned to attend a presentation,and if you know there will be a quiz during the following class,what should you do during that presentation?
Q5) _______________ involves effort and focus.
Q6) What are the basic differences between hearing and listening?
Q7) The term "listening style" refers to:
A)a listener's attitude toward a speaker.
B)how well an individual understands a message. C)our nonverbal responses to a message.
D)the extent to which a listener is open-minded or biased.
E)the specific focus of a listener's attention.
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above. Page 6
Chapter 5: Audience Analysis
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
89 Verified Questions
89 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64550
Sample Questions
Q1) If you use information from the US Census Bureau to learn more about your possible audience members,what type of audience analysis technique have you utilized?
A)direct observation
B)existing data
C)a focus group
D)an interview
E)a survey
Q2) People's beliefs,attitudes,and values are elements of ________________ information.
Q3) A(n)__________ is a word or phrase where the meaning cannot be predicted from normal,dictionary definitions.
Q4) Provide a specific example of how an audience analysis could help a speaker make adjustments to a speech as they are giving it?
Q5) Why should you consider preexisting notions about your topic? Use an example.
Q6) Explain how interviews can help a researcher learn about her or his potential audience.
Q7) Information about an audience's attitudes and opinions is called ________________ analysis.
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above. Page 7
Chapter 6: Finding a Purpose and Selecting a Topic
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
100 Verified Questions
100 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64551
Sample Questions
Q1) Media outlets are best used as the topics of persuasive speeches.
A)True
B)False
Q2) Pure persuasion occurs when the speaker:
A)accommodates the audience by using only the facts that support his or her thesis.
B)presents himself or herself as "one of you," with dreams and values in common.
C)simplifies his or her language,defines confusing terms,and provides examples.
D)takes the time to thank the audience for their time and thoughtful attention.
E)truly believes the change he or she proposes is in the best interest of the listeners.
Q3) Some Internet sources that include ".edu" can be used to:
A)choose a unique topic that nobody else would ever think of.
B)decide how to start your speech with an effective "grabber."
C)find ready-made speeches on topics suitable for college audiences.
D)get all the factual information you will need in one location.
E)identify interesting topics you can research for your public speech.
Q4) What is the purpose of having a clear specific purpose for both novice and advanced public speakers?
Q5) Why is the audience a constraint?
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above. Page 8
Chapter 7: Researching Your Speech
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
100 Verified Questions
100 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64552
Sample Questions
Q1) _______________ is using the bibliography or references cited in an source to help you locate other primary sources on a similar topic.
Q2) Information sources written for a general audience are _______________ sources.
Q3) Knowing the publisher of research materials:
A)is important because your audience will expect you to cite it.
B)gives you access to writers who are likely to agree with you.
C)helps you determine the credibility of the source.
D)is important if you must type your works cited page.
E)matters only when your topic is a public controversy.
Q4) You've been given a new speaking assignment and you know you'll need to use a reference librarian for help.What should your strategy be for involving the reference librarian in your research process?
Q5) When reporting the findings of another researcher,who has quoted someone else,what must you be careful to do?
Q6) State and explain three of the strategies you should take to avoid plagiarism.
Q7) Explain what is meant by patchwriting or patchingspeaking and why it should be avoided.
Q8) What is a fact?
Q9) Why should you attempt to narrow your topic before seeing a librarian? Page 9
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above.
Page 10
Chapter 8: Supporting Ideas and Building Arguments
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
72 Verified Questions
72 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64553
Sample Questions
Q1) A ____________ example is used to clarify or illustrate a principle,method,or phenomenon.
Q2) A nonexample is used to:
A)avoid saying anything positive.
B)avoid stating a clear position.
C)deny a criticism or accusation.
D)explain what something is not.
E)show what should not be done.
Q3) A setup is:
A)a carefully prepared sequence of evidence and reasoning.
B)an explanation of the meaning of data or statistical support.
C)an explanation of where the supporting information comes from.
D)use of information that leads to only one possible conclusion.
E)the use of a vivid quotation used to set the tone of the speech.
Q4) Eyewitness testimony is more reliable than expert testimony.
A)True B)False
Q5) Explain the three types of narratives and when they would be most useful in a speech as a form of evidence.
Q6) What is an authoritative source?
Page 11
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above.
Chapter 9: Introductions Matter: How to Begin a Speech
Effectively
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
73 Verified Questions
73 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64554
Sample Questions
Q1) Why is a preview an important part of an introduction?
Q2) Including a preview in the introduction to a speech:
A)increases the length of a speech to fill the time slot.
B)prepares the audience for what they will be hearing.
C)provides information about your expert sources.
D)reduces the need for people to listen to fine details.
E)undermines the impact of surprising information.
Q3) Trustworthiness is the:
A)accuracy and depth of evidence used in the speech.
B)audience's perception that the speaker is honest.
C)reassurance that the speaker wants nothing from you.
D)reputation of the speaker as forthright and sincere.
E)speaker's commitment to accuracy and honesty.
Q4) When writing a thesis statement,you should narrow your topic:
A)and then express it as a question.
B)in a vivid and memorable way.
C)so you can influence listeners.
D)to one,and only one,clear topic.
E)to a topic that is easy to research.
Q5) What is a preview,and what does it do?
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above. Page 12
Chapter 10: Creating the Body of a Speech
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
77 Verified Questions
77 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64555
Sample Questions
Q1) A causal speech format is virtually identical to a problem-cause-solution format.
A)True
B)False
Q2) What does "parallel structure" refer to?
Q3) What is a specific purpose? How should it be stated?
Q4) Each main point should be directly related to the other main points and to the purpose of the speech.
A)True
B)False
Q5) The spatial speech pattern is uniquely suited to a persuasive speech.
A)True
B)False
Q6) Write a sentence that includes an exemplifying transition.Underline the transition.
Q7) Internal summaries can be helpful when the information within a specific main point is complicated.
A)True
B)False
Q8) What does it mean to balance your main points?
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above. Page 13
Chapter 11: Concluding With Power
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
43 Verified Questions
43 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64556
Sample Questions
Q1) Should a speaker ever give advice during a speech,or does doing this automatically devalue the speaker's credibility?
Q2) When you conclude a speech with a ______________,you compel the audience to contemplate an answer.
Q3) The serial position effect is the:
A)perceived importance of items or information at the top of a list.
B)perceived sophistication of ideas near the beginning of a speech.
C)reason why an effective thesis statement is crucially important.
D)relief audiences feel when they sense the end of a presentation.
E)tendency to better remember items at the beginning or end of a list.
Q4) A challenge in a conclusion:
A)asks audience members to always remember the message.
B)calls for members of the audience to make a special effort.
C)makes a case for democratic participation in the community.
D)questions whether or not the audience will do something.
E)tells listeners why it's important to withhold judgment.
Q5) Explain the serial position effect and its importance to public speaking.
Q6) Restating the thesis in the conclusion relaxes the audience.
A)True
B)False
Page 14
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above.
Chapter 12: Outlining
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
67 Verified Questions
67 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64557
Sample Questions
Q1) If a word can have more than one meaning,you must specify which meaning you are using,and stick with that meaning.
A)True
B)False
Q2) The working outline:
A)is the final step before a polished presentation.
B)lays out the basic structure of your speech.
C)lists the ideas to be included in the speech.
D)is a preliminary,informal brainstorming sheet.
E)has space to allow for the inclusion of new ideas.
Q3) Conforming to a single structure and language style is an example of:
A)adequacy.
B)consistency.
C)parallelism.
D)singularity.
E)uniformity.
Q4) If you omit a step in reasoning,your speech will be vulnerable to lapses in logic.
A)True
B)False
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above. Page 15
Chapter 13: The Importance of Language
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
65 Verified Questions
65 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64558
Sample Questions
Q1) Obscure language is language that:
A)challenges an audience to contemplate new ideas.
B)contributes to a speaker's credibility and effectiveness.
C)most audience members are unlikely to understand.
D)persuades audiences that the speaker is intellectual.
E)presents ideas from a new or unusual perspective.
Q2) ______________ should be avoided if the audience is diverse.
Q3) Repeated words and phrases:
A)allow an audience to relax and agree with the message.
B)emphasize the commitment of a speaker to the main ideas.
C)help listeners recall information after the end of a speech.
D)reveal a lack of vocabulary or imagination in the speaker.
E)are transitions that clarify the relationship between ideas.
Q4) Oral communication is different from written communication because it:
A)is less spontaneous than written communication.
B)is more likely to be denotative and precise.
C)reliably communicates exact meanings.
D)relies on an extensive working vocabulary.
E)uses fewer words and shorter sentences.
Q5) What is vivid language and why is it important in public speaking?
Page 16
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above.
Chapter 14: Delivering the Speech
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
95 Verified Questions
95 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64559
Sample Questions
Q1) In using a set of five notecards,you should use one for the _____________,one for each main point,and one for the conclusion.
Q2) Memorized speaking is:
A)a careful word-for-word reading of a prepared message.
B)delivery of a carefully planned and rehearsed speech using notes.
C)the rote recitation of a prepared and memorized message.
D)the presentation of a short message with no advance preparation.
E)speaking that emphasizes meanings through subtle vocal cues.
Q3) How should you decide what to write on your notecards? What is the outcome of using well-prepared notecards?
Q4) A vocal cue is:
A)the apparent effort or energy given to a presentation.
B)an emphasis given to a particular word or phrase.
C)the fluency with which a speaker presents a speech.
D)a meaningful variation in pitch,tone,volume,or pace.
E)most likely to appear in a manuscript presentation.
Q5) A vocal cue is a subtle but meaningful variation in speech delivery.
A)True
B)False
Q6) How must speakers adapt to outdoor venues?
Page 17
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above.
Chapter 15: Presentation Aids: Design and Usage
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
89 Verified Questions
89 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64560
Sample Questions
Q1) The point size of the text on a graphic refers to:
A)the amount of text you can fit on a presentation aid.
B)the distance between the baselines of two lines of text.
C)a quality of a font where all parts of a letter are heavy.
D)the size,and therefore the readability,of the text.
E)the thickness or the boldness of specific fonts.
Q2) You should never assume the audience needs you to explain a presentation aid.
A)True
B)False
Q3) Presentation aids can diminish a speaker's credibility if they are hard to understand.
A)True
B)False
Q4) It's usually best to use a single font in the text on your visuals because:
A)it's easier to catch mistakes and misspellings.
B)they are more likely to look like a unified set.
C)using one well-designed font is impressive.
D)you can vary it with size,boldface,and italics.
E)you will seem well organized and consistent.
Q5) What are four reasons presentation aids are important? Explain.
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above. Page 18
Chapter 16: Informative Speaking
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
45 Verified Questions
45 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64561
Sample Questions
Q1) If you can link what your speech is about to information your audience already possesses,it will help your audience members process your speech more easily.
A)True
B)False
Q2) What is referred to as the order in which events take place?
A)abstract order
B)chronological order
C)polychronemic order
D)sequencing order
E)time order
Q3) What are the four steps to ethically handling a speech topic that is too ambitious?
Q4) Why should speakers avoid unnecessary jargon?
Q5) Differentiate among the three goals of public speaking.
Q6) What are the three basic goals of informative speaking?
A)accuracy,clarity,and listener interest
B)persuasibility,clarity,and accuracy
C)knowledge presentation,clarity,and accuracy
D)persuasibility,clarity,and listener interest
E)clarity,knowledge presentation,and listener interest
Page 19
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above.
Chapter 17: Persuasive Speaking
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
70 Verified Questions
70 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64562
Sample Questions
Q1) What step in Monroe's motivated sequence occurs when a speaker asks for an audience to approve the speaker's proposal?
A)action
B)attention
C)need
D)satisfaction
E)visualization
Q2) "Dissent in organizations should never be allowed" is an example of a definitional claim.
A)True
B)False
Q3) Explain the two forms of action discussed in Monroe's motivated sequence.
Q4) The following claim is an example of what type of persuasive claim? "Technology is eroding the American family and removing people from their neighbors."
A)belief
B)definitional
C)factual
D)policy
E)value
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above. Page 20
Chapter 18: Speaking to Entertain
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
62 Verified Questions
62 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64563
Sample Questions
Q1) When preparing a humorous speech,start with two-thirds of a prepared informative or persuasive speech,and then determine where the humor fits within that speech.
A)True
B)False
Q2) Which of the following is NOT one of the four ingredients for an entertaining speech?
A)be adaptive to your audience
B)be adaptive to the occasion
C)be adaptive to the rhetorical situation
D)be mindful of the time
E)be prepared
Q3) Lance Armstrong is often paid to speak about his experience overcoming cancer and going on to win the Tour de France.What type of motivational speaker is Lance Armstrong?
A)hero
B)champion
C)success
D)survivor
E)religious
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above. Page 21
Chapter 19: Your First Speech
Available Study Resources on Quizplus for this Chatper
32 Verified Questions
32 Flashcards
Source URL: https://quizplus.com/quiz/64564
Sample Questions
Q1) The key to extemporaneous speaking is to:
A)be comfortable speaking from a complete transcript of your speech.
B)be comfortable speaking with only a set of notes.
C)be comfortable improvising a speech.
D)be comfortable engaging in question-and-answer sessions with audiences.
E)be comfortable persuading audience members of a view you hold.
Q2) During the ______________ step,speakers really delve into the creation of the speech itself.
Q3) A common mistake that novice public speakers make when researching their topics is to spend ______________ time reading research and finding sources.
Q4) The second tier of the public speaking pyramid focuses on:
A)writing a conclusion.
B)rehearsing the speech.
C)integrating visual aids into the speech.
D)preparing the speech.
E)choosing a purpose for the speech.
Q5) Experts do not need to do research when preparing their speeches.
A)True
B)False
To view all questions and flashcards with answers, click on the resource link above. Page 22