Week 7: Journalism

by | Oct 15, 2025 | Journalism 101 Class

Writing the Interview Article

  • Learn how to structure an interview-based article

  • Practice integrating quotes and paraphrased content

  • Refine headlines and formatting
  • Continue developing Issue #2 newspaper content

 

Scripture

James 1:19 reminds us, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” This verse emphasizes the importance of humility and patience in communication, qualities that are especially vital during interviews. Practicing these listening skills helps build trust, gather accurate information, and create meaningful connections, whether we are the interviewer or the one being interviewed. Listening with intention not only improves communication but also reflects the character and wisdom that James encourages believers to pursue.

How to Write an Interview Article

When writing your interview article, it’s important to organize your thoughts clearly so your reader can easily follow your story. Use the structure below to guide your writing.

1. Introduction

Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention and explain what your article is about.

  • Introduce who you interviewed and why.

  • Give your reader a short preview of what they’ll learn from reading your article.

Example:
Listening is an important skill, especially when learning from others. I interviewed Mrs. Davis, a local art teacher, to learn how she encourages creativity in her classroom.

2. Who, What, When, Where, and Why

This part gives your reader background information.

  • Who did you interview?

  • What is the main topic or focus of the interview?

  • When and where did it take place?

  • Why did you choose this person or topic?

Example:
The interview took place last week at the community center. I wanted to learn more about how art can inspire confidence in students.

3. Main Quote

Include one strong quote from your interview that represents your main idea.

  • Introduce it smoothly using your own words.

  • Use quotation marks around the person’s exact words.

Example:
Mrs. Davis explained, “Art helps students express feelings they can’t always put into words.”

4. Supporting Details

Now explain or give examples that support the quote.

  • What did the person mean?

  • How does it connect to your article’s topic or theme?

  • Add any interesting details or stories they shared.

Example:
Her words reminded me how powerful creativity can be. Many students she works with have found comfort and confidence through art projects.

5. Conclusion

End your article by wrapping up what you learned from the interview.

  • Summarize the main idea.

  • Share your final thought or reflection.

Example:
Overall, my interview with Mrs. Davis taught me that listening to others’ experiences helps us understand how important creativity and self-expression are.

💬 Do’s and Don’ts for Quoting

✅ DO:

  • Use quotation marks around exact words someone says.

  • Introduce the quote so it fits naturally in your writing.

  • Explain the quote after using it.

  • Choose quotes that are meaningful or powerful.

❌ DON’T:

  • Don’t drop a quote in without introducing it.

  • Don’t change the person’s words unless you use brackets [ ].

  • Don’t use too many quotes—your own words are just as important.

  • Don’t forget to explain why the quote matters.

Sample Weak vs. Strong Questions

Weak Question

Strong Question

Do you like CHEAR?

What do you enjoy most about being part of CHEAR?

Is your class fun?

What’s one memorable moment from your class this year?
Article Writing Tips
  • Start strong: Begin with a clear intro or quote
  • Be accurate: Don’t misquote or change words
  • Blend quotes & paraphrasing: Use quotes for color and paraphrase for clarity
  • Wrap it up: End with a closing thought or future takeaway
Game: “Hot Seat Interview Challenge”

Objective:

To practice asking thoughtful questions, active listening, and taking notes during an interview.

What You Need:

  • 3 students (can be done in groups of 3)

  • A chair (the “Hot Seat”)

  • A timer or phone stopwatch

  • A paper and pencil (for note-taking)

How to Play:

Step 1: Assign Roles
Each student has a role:

  1. Interviewer – asks questions.

  2. Guest – sits in the “Hot Seat” and answers questions.

  3. Observer/Recorder – watches and takes notes on how well the interviewer listens and responds.

Step 2: Choose a Topic
Pick a simple or fun topic for the “guest.”
Examples:

  • Favorite hobby or sport

  • How they balance school and activities

  • Favorite movie or book and why

  • Dream job or future goal

Step 3: Interview Round (3 minutes)
The interviewer asks open-ended questions (not yes/no).
Example questions:

  • “What inspired you to start…?”

  • “Can you tell me more about…?”

  • “What’s something people might not know about this?”

The guest answers, and the interviewer practices listening carefully and asking follow-up questions.

Step 4: Observer Feedback (2 minutes)
The observer shares what they noticed:

  • Did the interviewer make eye contact?

  • Did they interrupt or listen carefully?

  • Did they ask follow-up questions?

  • Was the guest comfortable speaking?

Then rotate roles so everyone gets a turn in the Hot Seat, as interviewer, and as observer.

Scoring (optional for fun)

Give 1 point for each:
✅ Asked a thoughtful question
✅ Used a follow-up question
✅ Showed good listening skills
✅ Made the guest feel comfortable

The student with the most points at the end is the “Top Interviewer!”

Debrief Discussion

After all rounds, discuss:

  • What made a good interview question?

  • How did it feel to be really listened to?

  • What can make an interview feel awkward or uncomfortable?

Homework

Come up with a short, engaging headline for your piece: