Prior to the students starting their interview activity process, it is important to go over the do's and don'ts of an interview!
Once you and your students have gone over the do's and don'ts as a class, hand students out the list of characters from the book "Ellie Engle Saves Herself."
Steps:
Choose Your Character: Select a character from "Ellie Engle Saves Herself." Think about a character you found interesting or who you would like to learn more about.
Prepare Questions: Brainstorm a list of questions you would like to ask your chosen character. Consider questions about their personality, feelings, motivations, and experiences in the story. Write down your questions on a piece of paper or in a notebook. Aim for 10-15 questions! (yes of course you may do more!!)
Example questions:
What is your name, and what is one word you would use to describe yourself?
What are your favorite hobbies or activities?
Can you tell us about your family and friends?
What are some challenges you have faced recently? Please be sure to elaborate.
How do you feel about __(insert another characters name)__?
Can you share a memorable moment and/or lesson you have experienced or learned?
Interview Worksheet: After brainstorming a list of questions, on a finalized interview worksheet, write the questions you have prepared.
Get into Character: Imagine yourself as your chosen character. Think about how they would speak, move, and act. You can even dress up or use props to help you get into character.
Find a Buddy: Partner up with a classmate or friend who has chosen a different character. This way, you can take turns interviewing each other's characters.
Conduct the Interview: Sit facing your partner and take turns asking each other questions as your characters. Remember to stay in character and answer the questions as if you were the character from the book.
Listen Carefully: Pay attention to your partner's answers during the interview. Think about how their character's responses reveal more about them and the story.
Reflect: After the interview, take a moment to reflect on what you learned about your partner's character. Discuss with your partner how the interview helped you understand the character better and any new insights you gained.
Wrap Up: Thank your partner for participating in the interview. Consider sharing your favorite part of the activity or something new you learned about your character.
Switch Partners: If time allows switch partners and conduct another interview with a different character.