2.6 Lesson: Effective Listening


Journalism Listening


Target


Assignment


Journalists report significant, interesting, and relevant information.

News is communication which keeps the audience, you, informed with reliable and accurate facts put in a meaningful context. It is story-telling with a purpose.

Newscasters try to convey an accurate meaning, and are transparent (open) about their sources of information, so audiences can make their own judgments. They keep the news in proportion and avoid leaving out important information. 



View  "Listening is an Act of Love".



Effective Listening

Everyone has a story to tell.


People appreciate someone who listens to their story and can communicate it clearly, with voice or style.

One of the skills required for gathering a story is listening. People listen to...
  • get the facts
  • put a face to a story
  • gain perspective
  • satisfy curiosity
Effective listening involves making the other person feel comfortable and asking questions.


Effective Questions



  • Ask questions that make people smile.

    "Who is the most important person in your life?"

    "Of what are you most proud?"

  • Ask about the person's actions, habits, or practices.

    "Why do you like..."

  • Ask questions about the future.

    "What's the best part about what you're doing next?"

  • Ask open-ended questions that cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. Use the word "how."

    "How did your team come together in this game? How do you feel about that?"

  • Ask the expert. Aim to learn from someone else.

    "Could you tell me more about..."

  • Ask for clarification if you don't understand something.

    "Could you explain..."

Curiosity, respect, and courage will allow you to ask questions of people important to you.



Read the interview question in italics in "Making Canadian Hockey History" on page 103 of SightLines 8.



In this lesson, you will... 


  1. research ideas and seek out multiple sources

  1. verify information and remain objective

  1. maintain your focus to write a report





  Please contact your teacher if you have questions.