1. Asking questions of your field expert The Interview

2. The basics: Today we will be writing interview questions. These are questions you will ask your field expert once you start your 30 hours (or you can ask another field expert if you have already done your 30 hours).

3. To start: You should contact your expert well in advance to see if they are able and willing to help on your project. Find out their preferred way to conduct the interview (in person, over the phone, electronically). Set up a time and then start getting ready for the interview.

4. What kinds of questions? Plan for concise, to-the-point, yet open-ended (limit “yes or no” or Level 1) questions that will help you achieve your project goals and make the best use of your time with the expert.

5. Come up with 5 questions that you can ask your field expert. Individually:

6. These questions can include: Why they joined their field A history of their work Opinions on controversial issues in the field (like your essential question or your guiding questions!) Opinions on statistics or facts that you have found Advice they have for anyone entering the field

7. Helpful Hints: 1. It is helpful to write down your questions and have them in front of you when you are interviewing. 2. You may even consider sending a list of questions to your expert in advance so they can properly prepare.

8. Remember: 1. You are a representative of Lincoln High School! 2. Always exhibit gracious professionalism during your interview and be respectful of the time given to you by the expert.

9. Sample Questions: Example: The essential question is whether or not automobiles affect global warming. I am interviewing a science teacher. How did you get into your career? What is the most important climate issue facing our generation? What areas of the world are being affected most by climate changes? Do you believe we can reverse the effects caused by climate change? What advice can you give to the next generation in terms of fixing climate problems? Are there any last thoughts or comments you have on this issue?

10. At the end: Remember to thank the field expert Give them your email in case they want/need to contact you Ask for their email so that you can follow up on questions if you need to do so