The content of a good speech writing course includes an explanation of the function and impact of speech writers, an examination of speeches produced by professional writers, and a focus on the sharpening of students' writing skills. The content must also be balanced between the practical/professional and the abstract/academic aspects of the speech writer's function in society. In reality, corporate and government speech writers may have to perform many duties besides writing, write about unfamiliar topics for people they do not know or with whom they cannot consult, and accept criticism for poor speeches more often than praise for good ones. To take these realities into consideration and find the balance between professional and academic aspects of speech writing, speech writing courses must ignore delivery skills and concentrate on structure, evidence, and style. A seminar format allows students to polish the organization of a speech and improve style through revision. (A course overview and schedule and assignments for a speech writing seminar are included.) (HTH)