The high school course in English

by Willard Grosvenor Bleyer

5. Oral Composition

Although the term “composition” as used in connection with English work usually refers only to written expression, it is evident that the oral expression of the pupils’ thoughts is worthy of consideration. Generally no particular provision is made in high school work for so-called oral composition, nor does it seem necessary to provide a distinct place for it in the outline of the course. The importance of the form of the recitation in every subject is emphasized by all good teachers. The topical recitation now so frequently required in all high school studies, if properly conducted, is the most effective kind of oral composition that can be given. A teacher of English, of course, should give especial attention to the form of recitation in English classes. Pupils, after some encouragement, will express their ideas freely in the course of the discussions which inevitably arise in connection with the reading and composition. Their attention should be directed to the fact that the same principles govern the clear and forcible expression in spoken, as in written language. The correction of common faults in recitation, such as the “and”, “and then” habit, will assist in eliminating these errors from the written work as well as in improving greatly the oral expression. During the first year the pupils may be assigned simple topics in connection with the reading and should be taught how to collect the material and arrange it in an outline form from which to present it in the class room. After they have acquired the ability to present topics with the aid of notes, they should be encouraged to speak without any of these aids. The same method may be applied to the daily recitation. In fact, it is often best to begin by having the pupils outline the subject matter of the lesson and come to class prepared to recite upon any topic in the outline. In this manner the recitations in English and in practically all of the other subjects of the high school course may be used to give the pupils the necessary training in oral composition.