Interviewing Our Community Heritage Experts
Grade 7 Social Studies Learning to Listen and Ask Great Questions Exploring Local Heritage Through Interviews
Why Interview Community Members?
Personal stories bring history to life First-hand experiences provide unique perspectives Preserves local heritage for future generations Builds connections between generations Develops our listening and communication skills
Think About It
What's the difference between these two questions? Question A: 'Do you like living here?' Question B: 'What do you enjoy most about living in this community?'
Open-Ended Questions: The Key to Great Interviews
Cannot be answered with just 'yes' or 'no' Invite detailed, thoughtful responses Often start with: What, How, Why, When, Tell me about... Example: 'Can you describe what this neighborhood was like when you first moved here?' Help us understand experiences and feelings
Question Planning Workshop
Work with your partner to create 5-7 interview questions Focus on local heritage topics Use your Interview Question Planning Template Remember: What, How, Why, When, Tell me about... Think about what you really want to learn!
Role-Play Practice Time
{"left":"INTERVIEWER: Ask your prepared questions\nListen carefully to responses\nTake notes on your graphic organizer\nAsk follow-up questions when needed","right":"COMMUNITY MEMBER: Use your role-play card\nShare detailed stories and experiences\nSpeak as your assigned character\nHelp your partner practice good listening"}
Active Listening Skills
Make eye contact with the speaker Nod and use encouraging body language Take clear, organized notes Ask follow-up questions: 'Can you tell me more about that?' Don't interrupt - let them finish their thoughts Show genuine interest and curiosity
Reflection and Next Steps
'Good questions open doors to amazing stories.' Today we learned to create open-ended questions and practice active listening Next lesson: We'll interview real community heritage experts! Complete your reflection: 'I found that good questions...' and 'Next time, I will try to...'