This essay overviews a semester-long course activity and framework for the basic public-speaking course. Using Paul and Elder's critical-thinking framework, the author discusses ways to address some of the common problems within the public-speaking course while enhancing critical thinking. Through this model, students develop skills in five critical-thinking commitments and 10 critical-thinking standards for self-reflection. Detailed assignment descriptions and step-by-step processes are included to help instructors hoping to help develop students' critical-thinking skills throughout the speechmaking process. Courses: Public Speaking. Objectives: (1) Formulate vital questions and problems clearly; (2) Gather and assess relevant information; (3) Identify assumptions, beliefs, alternatives, and implications; (4) Develop well-reasoned conclusions and solutions; and (5) Communicate reasoning effectively.