List of questions due: ________________

Draft of expository paper due: _______________

Final draft of expository paper due: __________________

Rationale: This project will help you develop your interview and speaking skills, and it will also hone your note-taking and writing skills. Hopefully, it will also give you insight into a career you might be considering for your future.

Assignment: 1. Pick someone who works in a profession you might be interested in or who has a job you think is unique or interesting.

2. Contact that person and ask if they would be willing to let you interview them. If they are interested, set up a time to conduct the interview (either in person or on the phone).

3. Make up a list of questions before the interview. Be sure to cover all the important aspects of the person’s job and profession. The more questions you ask, and the more specific the questions, the more developed your essay will be. All questions should be related to the person’s profession. For example, do not just ask if the person has children. Instead, ask if the person’s job affects the time he or she spends with his or her family.

4. Conduct the interview.

Ø Using a tape recorder is the best way to ensure that you do not miss information and have accurate quotations. However, tape recording the interview is not a requirement.

Ø Whether or not you use a tape recorder, take notes. This will protect you in case there is a mechanical problem and refresh your memory in case you cannot understand some of what is said on the tape. (These notes will also be turned in as part of your grade.)

4. Write the expository paper. (Pay special attention to focus and development.)

Ø Be sure to include a paragraph explaining why you picked this particular profession and person. Also, tell how you arranged the interview and when and where it was conducted. (This information can be included in the body of your essay, or you can add it on as a “forward” or an “explanatory note” at the end.)

Ø The main part of your paper will explain what you learned in the interview. It should be written as a profile article for a magazine or newspaper and should include the basic information listed above as well as answers to any other questions you thought to ask. Be sure to include plenty of facts, quotations, and anecdotes.