Lesson Plan: Barbara Frum, Newsmaker

Lesson Plan

Before Exploring

Ask students to define the term "interview." Then have them describe the format of an interview. List their responses, sequencing them if you wish.

Ask students to think of an occasion when an interview on television or radio made them care about the subject of the interview. Ask them to share what made them care--was it the interviewer, the person being interviewed, or the topic? Have them share their experiences with the class.

Explain that they will be exploring the CBC Digital Archives website to learn about Barbara Frum, a Canadian broadcaster known for her insightful interviews.

Outline the Opportunity

Direct students to the topic Barbara Frum: Pioneering Broadcaster on the CBC Digital Archives website. Have them scan the Table of Contents, choose an interview that interests them, and view that clip. As they watch, students should note their reactions to the interview topic, the interviewer, the person being interviewed, and anything else of interest to them.

Depending on the age, experience, or ability of your students, reduce or increase the time for exploration. If you desire, you may choose to have the entire class focus on the same clip.

Revisit and Reflect

Have students describe the clip they viewed and share their reactions. Ask questions such as the following to help students understand how an interviewer can lead the audience to certain reactions:

• What techniques did Frum use?
• How did Frum help you form a perception of of the topic?
• How did she shape the interview?
• In what ways did the interview appeal or not appeal to the audience?

Extension

Have students turn their notes into a written summary of their reaction to the clip and what led them to feel that way.

Materials

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