This paper presents a rationale for combining public speaking with interpersonal communication and group discussion, in basic speech courses. A survey of textbook authors, administrators, teachers, and students reveals that most feel that the public-speaking approach, alone or in conjunction with other approaches, continues to be the most valid for their needs. Those who are interested in implementing the public-speaking approach should place emphasis on the innovation of ideas and on research into the effectiveness of the basic speech course. (KS)