This semester we read a sixties novel and developed sixties research papers. I've asked my students to share their thoughts and experiences for their researching topics as diverse as the Women's Movement, the Black Panther Party, the Manson Murders, the Space Race, JFK, MLK, Marilyn Monroe, Muhammed Ali. At our Student News Conference, we bring in a professional podium. We have reserved a large screen for students to support their discussions with meaningful visuals. In a brief three to five minutes, they highlight the most interesting aspects of their writing projects and writing experiences. At the end of their presentations, they will take questions from the audience. Here are the imporant details:
When: Tuesday, June 3 @ 11:00 a.m – 12:00 p.m
Where: Spencer Library Computer Classroom (room 1502)
Jay’s Origin of News Conference Idea: This Student News Conference idea came to me at the beginning of the first Trump presidency; from watching news clips of Trump, Nancy Pelosi, Sara Saunders, Rod Rosenstein, presenting important information to a roomful of reporters. And taking questions! I thought what a great format to generate and perpetuate student engagement at semester's end. The communication goes two ways. Everyone wins!
Jay’s Note: For many of my students, these projects have been both rigorous and challenging. As we advanced deeper into the writing process, students seem more knowledgeable and engaged – sharing their new insight can become a rewarding experience.
Here are some questions you can expect to hear addressed at our News Conference:-
What is the emphasis for your paper? What question is driving your paper? What did you want to answer in your essay?
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Who is the central figure in your research paper? What is his/her story? What is the larger issue?
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What have you learned so far that has surprised you and why?
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What do people need to know most about your topic?
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What are some of the misconceptions people may have about your topic?
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What is your personal involvement in the topic? How did you come to choose your topic?
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What may have been the greatest challenge to put this project together?
For those of you reading this that can't make it to our Student News Conference, please check us out on our class Padlet. This past week, we have prepared for the event with online interaction. You can find us here: https://padlet.com/jaylewenstein/student-news-conference-prep-question-and-answer-owip4lnjal5n6j3g
I envision our Student News Conference as an exciting, non-threatening collaborative atmosphere to reinforce our semester learning and motivate my future students to do the same. I call it a “Celebration of Student Writing.” Look for publication of our best writing – later this summer – in our next classroom blog. My students and I wish you all a successful and rewarding close to your Spring Semester 2025 and a Beautiful Summer.Paz,
Jay Lewenstein
Adjunct English Instructor, Imperial Valley College
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