Lesson Plan: Conducting Interviews Using Questioning Techniques and Active Listening
Subject: English
Grade: 9
Duration: 30 Minutes
Topic: Speaking/Listening - Conducting Interviews
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Understand the importance of questioning techniques in conducting interviews.
- Demonstrate active listening skills during mock interviews.
- Effectively formulate and pose open-ended and closed questions.
- Reflect on their interviewing skills and the role of active listening in effective communication.
Materials Needed
- Whiteboard and markers
- Handout on questioning techniques
- Sample interview scripts
- Timer
- Reflection worksheet
Lesson Outline
Introduction (5 Minutes)
- Begin with a brief discussion on the importance of interviews in various contexts (e.g., job interviews, media interviews).
- Introduce the concept of questioning techniques and active listening as essential skills in conducting effective interviews.
- Explain that the class will utilize the 5Es instructional model (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate) throughout the lesson.
Engage (5 Minutes)
- Pose the following question to the class: “What makes a good interviewer?” Encourage students to share their thoughts.
- Write student responses on the whiteboard to highlight key attributes of effective interviewing, such as preparation, clarity, and attentiveness.
Explore (5 Minutes)
- Distribute the handout on questioning techniques and discuss different types of questions (open-ended, closed, probing, etc.).
- Divide students into pairs and provide them with sample interview scenarios. Instruct each pair to create a plan for conducting their interviews, focusing on the types of questions they will ask.
Explain (5 Minutes)
- Discuss the concept of active listening and its importance in interviews. Highlight techniques such as paraphrasing, summarizing, and eye contact.
- Demonstrate active listening behaviors through a short role-play with a volunteer, showcasing how an interviewer can both ask questions and exhibit active listening.
Elaborate (7 Minutes)
- Have students conduct mock interviews in their pairs. One student will act as the interviewer and the other as the interviewee, using their prepared questions for 3 minutes each.
- After the first round, switch roles and allow the interviewees to become the interviewers, using different sets of questions.
Evaluate (3 Minutes)
- Conduct a brief class discussion on the mock interviews. Encourage students to provide feedback to their peers on what went well and what could be improved.
- Distribute the reflection worksheet, asking students to write down what they learned about questioning techniques and active listening, and to identify one area they want to improve upon for future interviews.
Conclusion (5 Minutes)
- Wrap up the lesson by reiterating the importance of questioning and listening skills in interviews and other life scenarios.
- Encourage students to practice these skills beyond the classroom to become more effective communicators.
Assessment
- Evaluate students based on their participation in the mock interviews and their reflections on the worksheet.
- Consider providing feedback on their questioning techniques and active listening skills observed during the exercise.
Homework (Optional)
- Assign students to conduct an interview with a family member or friend, utilizing the questioning techniques and active listening skills discussed. Ask them to submit a brief summary of their experience and what they learned.
This lesson plan outlines a structured approach to teaching Year 9 students effective interviewing techniques through the use of questioning and active listening skills. The inclusion of the 5Es framework enhances student engagement and promotes a deeper understanding of the lesson objectives.