Business Communications

Ms. Amber Hall

Classroom 125

ahall@lps.k12.co.us

www.amberhall.net

Voice Mail: 303-734-6785 

Course Description: 

Business Communications is a 1 semester, 5-credit course designed to increase students’ effectiveness in professional communications.  Students have the option of taking Business Communications for either English or Business credit.  The course defaults to English credit, so students wishing to earn business credit for the class need to speak with their counselors. 

The units listed will be integrated throughout the semester.  Emphasis will be placed on developing and practicing new skills in an interactive and hands-on environment.

• Unit 1:  Grammar, Vocabulary & Spelling – we will practice grammar fundamentals; parts of speech, sentence structure, rules of punctuation – and evaluate their impact in business communications.

• Unit 2: Business Letter Writing – we will identify, prepare and critique the purpose, organizational patterns and appropriate content for routine, good will, bad news and persuasive messages.

• Unit 3: Business Report & Proposal Writing – we will identify the components of business reports; design and administer surveys or complete research to generate information to be used in the formulation of a business report or proposal; compose a business report; and develop a business plan.

• Unit 4: Oral Presentations – we will identify steps in planning and preparing an oral presentation; define & practice the vocal qualities, body language, eye contact, poise, and lack of distracting mannerisms necessary for an effective oral presentation; practice casual presentation skills through interview-like conversations. 

• Unit 5: Reading & Listening Skills – we will outline the steps used when reading for information; demonstrate reading for information when reading text, instructions, and research; define & demonstrate active listening and the techniques used by active listeners.

• Unit 6: Cross Cultural Communications – we will explore how effective communicators adapt their style to be appropriate in the context of different countries, cultures and situations and we will identify some differences in business communications around the world.

• Unit 7: Business Ethics – We will examine ethical issues related to business communications and evaluate the ramifications of decisions based on business ethical issues.

• Unit 8: Job Application – we will analyze the communication styles necessary (in resumes, letters of application, interviews, etc) to successfully persuade potential employers to hire you!

Materials:

• All work should done on the computer should be saved in individual student folders.  All written work needs to be kept in a notebook and brought to class each day.
• Business Technology – computers, digital cameras and remotes are provided as needed in class.
• Reading material – each student will be selecting a business-related text to read through the course of the semester.  This can be checked out from the library.  Ms. Hall will share more about this later…
• Google Group - please check here when you miss class for updates and assignments

Classroom Expectations:

1. Come to class everyday on time and prepared to learn with a writing utensil and paper.
2. Respect your learning environment, your peers and your instructor.
3. Abide by LHS computer etiquette and treat the classroom supplies with care and conservation.
4. NO FOOD OR BEVERAGES ARE ALLOWED IN THE COMPUTER LAB.
5. Students will create an atmosphere conducive to learning free from the use of:
   1. Cell phones, pagers, electronics, etc.  (Music device are allowed during specified times).
   2. Inappropriate behavior, language, and/or attitudes that disrupt the learning environment.
   3. Cheating and/or plagiarism

Attendance and Late Work

Your attendance and active participation are vital to your success and learning in this class. 

• Unexcused absences are unacceptable and will result in a loss of 50% of your Work Habits points during each 6 week grading period (Work Habits account for 10% of your total grade).  2 unexcused absences = a parent meeting, 3 = referral to a Vice-Principal.
• Late work: Students must notify Ms. Hall in writing when they are submitting late work to earn credit.  This includes assignments turned in late after missing a class (it is better to email the assignment to me on time then to turn it in late with an excuse).  Projects with deadlines stated in the document must be submitted by the deadline for full credit.
• Modifications and Accommodations: Ms. Hall is willing to provide a variety of opportunities to demonstrate your learning ONLY IF you attend class regularly and do not have unexcused absences or excessive tardies in your record.

Evaluation:

Assignments are assessed for achievement of the learning goals as well as completeness, professionalism, critical thinking and accuracy.  Grades are based skill and subject mastery demonstrated through portfolio completion, participation in class, group activities, projects, quizzes, skill assessments, unit exams and demonstration of work habits and citizenship. 

Grading:

Your class grade is a direct result of your input to the class and your achievement of the learning goals.  It is earned by you, not given by me!  Letter grades will be determined based on the Littleton High School grading curve and are automatically calculated in Infinite Campus.  Ms. Hall does not round grades and attempts to keep online grades current within two weeks of when work is submitted. 

Professional Involvement (FBLA)

Most professional employment positions have organizations for membership.  You are encouraged to join Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) to develop leadership skills, volunteer for school and community projects and, if interested, compete in the spring.  This is a good opportunity for you to share your enthusiasm and knowledge with peers.  Participation in professional groups is encouraged for job hiring and promotion—and provides you with another marketable skill on your resume.