2.  The four levels of attribution.  What type of questions should you avoid?

3.  1. On-the-record: whatever the source says may be used in the story, including as direct quotes.  2. Off-the-record: something that cannot be used in the story. This should be understood beforehand.

4.  3. On Background: the reporter can use the material, but may not identify by name who said it.  4. On Deep Background: the material can be used but under no circumstances can the source be revealed.

5.  Yes or No Questions—answers need to be elaborated on.  -EST questions—they’re a little juvenile and can cut off conversations.

6.  Focus on the “hear” and now— concentrate on what the source is saying now, not on what you will ask next.  Practice conversational listening—base your next question on the last sentence or thought the source expressed.

7.  Practice critical listening—evaluate what the source is saying as you hear it. Listen on one level for fact, on another for quotes, and on a third level for elaboration and substantiation.  Be quiet—do not try to impress the source with what you know.

8.  Be responsive—make eye contact frequently so your source knows you are listening.  Listen for what isn’t said—sometimes what is omitted is more revealing than what is included.  Listen with your eyes—what kind of body language is the source displaying?

9.  Be polite—if the source starts to ramble or give you irrelevant information, don’t interrupt. Wait for them to pause and then get back on track.  Block out personal intrusions—try not to dwell on what’s going on in your own life.  Develop listening curiosity—don’t be afraid to stray from your prepared questions.

10.  Using the Beats we determined earlier, come up with a possible story for our publication. Who would you interview for this story? What are five possible questions for this interview.  Homework—set up and complete this interview. You have three days to complete this assignment.