The purpose of this paper is to create a guide for beginning coaches of the "communication analysis" event in forensics and to attempt to arouse interest in the activity. According to the paper, the American Forensic Association defines communication analysis as an original speech designed to offer an explanation and/or evaluation of a…

Suggests using debate in a composition class to teach decision-making skills, values clarification, and careful articulation of personal thoughts and opinions. (MKM)

Describes a method of teaching students to identify and analyze misleading or manipulative rhetoric used in political campaigns. Provides excerpts from student-written journals based on the 1992 presidential debates. Argues that such activities are beneficial in English classes. (HB)

Advocates using debate with F.R. Stockton's "The Lady, or the Tiger" to sharpen critical skills in literary interpretation. Poses a series of questions at five-minute intervals and sets up an affirmative and a negative side on which students debate the next day. Suggests also debating on literary values, an author's intentions, etc. (PA)

Describes a discussion model based on the reader-response approach which thrives on controversy and encourages students to become an active, responsible "community of interpreters." (MM)