The Survey / Interview Article -- Due Tuesday, 1 Dec 09

I. Collect your data.

On Tuesday (24 Nov. 09) we disseminated the surveys during homeroom. During class we tallied the results.

II. Decide what you want to say about Facebook.

Note: This is a different post and different article than the blog you did about Facebook last week. That was a personal reaction whereas this is a feature article OR a information piece OR an opinion piece.

A. Look at what you learned from the Facebook surveys. Did anyone say things that triggered any new ideas or thoughts you have about Facebook? What trends emerged?

From the survey results, are there things you can say that support -- or challenge the things said in the articles you read? As said in the blog post above, you will NOT be able to use ALL of the information gathered from the survey in your article, but that's ok. Use only the facts that are pertinent to what you want to say about Facebook.

B. Consider: What aspect(s) of Facebook do you want to address? Here are some possibilities--but you can probably think of other aspects. Choose no more than two or three aspects to discuss in your article.

• It's wide appeal -- and why.
• It's use here at our school and amongst differing populations and age groups here.
• It's use as a tool to communicate (talk to friends; meet people; use by businesses, politicians, teachers, university admissions officers, etc.).
• It's addictive aspects.
• Predators or stalkers as a problem.
• It's positive and/or negative aspects.
• It's effect on students' time, ability to socialize in person, etc.

III. Get some background information by researching on-line.

You did your research and background reading the other day. Note, if you still need more information, do a search on "Google" or Ebsco.

IV. Organize and outline what you'll say.

A. You'll need a good introduction with a "hook" to grab readers.

B. What 2-3 important points will you make? What quotes will you use to support your article? What facts will you include from the surveys to support your ideas?

C. How will you conclude your article?

V. Write a 400-500 word article. This is due on Tuesday, 1 Dec. 09. Post your article on your blog by 8 a.m. 1 Dec.

YAY! This has the potential of being your most interesting article because there is so much that can be said--and you have some fresh, up-t0-date FACTS to prove your points!