The Art of Embedded Interviews: A Guide for Teachers and Students
Do you remember the last time you read a captivating news article that included an interview with an expert or someone with a unique perspective? Chances are, that article was an example of the embedded interview text type. This type of writing is all around us, from news articles to research papers, and it’s an important skill for students to learn. However, teaching students how to write effective embedded interviews can be a challenge. That’s why I’ve put together this post to help teachers of all levels guide their students through the process. In this post, we will cover what the embedded interview text type is, why it’s important, and offer some tips and activities to help students master the art of embedding interviews in their writing. By the end of this post, you’ll be equipped with the tools you need to help your students write engaging and effective embedded interviews. So, let’s dive in!
What is an Embedded Interview?
So, what exactly is an embedded interview text type? Simply put, it's a type of writing that includes an interview with an expert or someone with a unique perspective within the larger piece of writing. You've probably seen this type of writing in news articles or research papers, where the writer interviews someone to provide insight, support, or a different viewpoint. By including quotes from the interviewee, the writer can add credibility to their piece and create a more engaging and informative read. This type of writing is an important skill for students to learn, as it allows them to effectively communicate with their audience and provide a well-rounded perspective on a topic.
Key Features of Embedded Interviews
One key feature of an embedded interview is that it includes quotes from the interviewee that are integrated into the larger piece of writing. These quotes can be used to add depth and nuance to the writer's argument, as well as to provide a sense of the interviewee's personality or perspective.
This type of writing is commonly used in journalism, research papers, and other forms of non-fiction writing. It can be challenging for students to master, as it requires effective interviewing skills, the ability to analyze and synthesize information, and strong writing skills. However, teaching students how to write effective embedded interviews is a valuable skill that can prepare them for a variety of real-world writing contexts.
The Benefits of Mastering Embedded Interviews
By mastering the art of the embedded interview, students can become more effective communicators and more persuasive writers. They will be better equipped to provide well-rounded perspectives on complex topics and to engage their audience with compelling and informative writing.
Tips and Activities for Teaching Embedded Interviews
Now that we've covered the basics, let's explore some tips and activities that can help your students practice and develop their embedded interview skills.
1. Start with a Mini-lesson on Interviewing Skills
Before students can effectively embed interviews in their writing, they need to learn how to conduct an interview. Teach them the basics of interviewing, such as asking open-ended questions, listening actively, and taking thorough notes. Conduct a mock interview in class, with you as the interviewer and a student as the interviewee, to demonstrate good interviewing techniques. You could set your students off around campus to interview different teachers and support staff about a particular issue or topic.
2. Practice Embedding Quotes
Have students practice embedding quotes in their writing. Provide them with a sample interview transcript and ask them to select quotes that support a specific argument or perspective. Encourage them to practice integrating the quotes into their writing smoothly and accurately, using proper attribution and signal phrases. Alternatively, ask students to think of a topic they would like to explore about student life and interview a student within their class. It would be suggested that a short 1-2 minute interview be conducted and recorded so that students can take the time to write down the answers the interviewee gave accurately. Then, learners can make connections to the bigger picture of what they want to achieve. I have made a worksheet below that can help students practice just that.
Feel free to download the 'recording' work sheet here:
3. Analyze Examples
Share examples of well-written embedded interviews from news articles or research papers. Encourage students to analyze the structure and techniques used in these examples, and discuss how the interviews enhance the overall piece.
Feel free to download the 'analysis' work sheet below:
4. Conduct and Embed Real Interviews
Assign students a topic and have them conduct their own interviews with experts or individuals with unique perspectives. Guide them through the process of selecting relevant quotes and integrating them into their writing. This hands-on experience will help students build confidence in their interviewing and embedding skills.
5. Peer Review and Reflection
Finally, have students share their embedded interview pieces with their peers for feedback and revision. Encourage them to reflect on the process and consider how they can continue to improve their skills.
By following these tips and engaging in these activities, your students will be well on their way to mastering the art of embedded interviews. With practice and guidance, they'll become more effective communicators and persuasive writers – skills that will serve them well throughout their academic and professional careers.
Exam Style Questions for IBDP English B
A famous English-speaking film star (an ex-student at your school) recently visited your school. The actor’s films are very popular with young people, and as the editor of the school magazine, you think it is important to find out more about this person so that the school are better informed. Write a text in which you report what the film star enjoyed at school, what they have to say about accomplishing dreams, and why their films are so appealing to teenagers.
i) Interview ii) Blog iii) Letter
A business in your town recently closed causing unemployment of hundreds of people. A new investor would like to take over the site and has some big plans in place to boost the local economy. Write a text in which you discuss the reasons for the closure, describe the plans laid out by the new investor and report on the positive impact it may have on the community.
i) News Report ii) Interview iii) Speech