First, the students looked at a list of local veterans compiled by Mrs. Helen Kilborn. One student found her grandfather’s name there; another, a coach’s; another, a neighbor’s. Some students read a photocopy of an old newspaper item and became intrigued in meeting the individual who inspired the article. Some were interested in either a particular war or branch of the service. Somehow, their selections are made. The ultimate goal of the project is to interview every interested local veteran and record an experience.

In the classroom, we modeled the phone call and the interview. Then, the students initiated the relationship with the veteran by making their phone call and setting up an appointment. Some met at the school, or the town library, or even the veteran’s home. Since the interview had to be tape recorded, and many of the students were a bit nervous, we encouraged them to work on their interviews in pairs – one person to conduct the interview, keeping an eye on the assignment’s criteria, and a friend to manage the tape player and perhaps help guide the questions.

At home, the students then transcribed a portion of their interview word for word. Their transcription had to demonstrate their ability to conduct a insightful and effective interview.

Finally, they formatted their transcript and added an introduction that set the mood for the entire experience. Part one of the project was complete.