JOUR 6022

Spring 2010

Fudan University

Reading Guide: Writing and Reporting News, Chapter 5 (Interviewing Techniques)

NOTE: This chapter corresponds to Chapter 7 in the 6th edition. For your “notes,” answer each of the questions below briefly and clearly. Reading quizzes, when given, will come from information presented in the reading. Please remember that you are responsible for all the material covered in the chapter, whether covered in a question or not.

1.  What valuable lesson about interviewing did Barbara Walsh learn in writing a story about William R. Horton, Jr.?

2.  According to Walsh, what is the key to good interviewing?

3.  What is her advice to student reporters?

4.  Briefly summarize how dealing with different sources can differ in relation to issues of sensitivity.

5.  What are some of the disadvantages of using a tape recorder for recording interviews with sources?

6.  When is using a tape recorder beneficial?

7.  What are the rules of etiquette when taping interviews?

8.  List and describe the keys to developing good listening skills.

9.  List and describe the keys to developing good note-taking skills.

10.  If you are planning an interview that needs to be set up in advance, what are planning stages you need to follow?

11.  Define the two types of questions needed for interviews.

12.  What are some tips for conducting interviews?

13.  In interview situations, how do you use the “silent treatment”?

14.  In interview situations, how do you use the “blame others” technique?

15.  In interview situations, how do you use the “matchmaker” technique?

16.  What are some types of information to gather for a visual element that could accompany a story you are writing?

17.  What are the advantages of e-mail interviews? What are the disadvantages? List three e-mail interview tips.

18.  What types of stories is the GOAL method best for?

19.  What are the guidelines for telephone interviewing?

20.  Print out and read the handout “Interviewing and Taking Notes” at the course Web site.

21.  What question(s) do you have about interviewing that haven’t been covered in this reading?

Page 2 of 2