1. Identify your interests and possible topics.

2. Find background information. Visit libraries and local museums to find out what resources are available. Are there members of the community who have special knowledge of your topics of interest? Talk to community organizations and historical societies to identify people who would be sources of information beyond what is available in the library.

3. Identify your research focus based on your new background knowledge, and accessibility of cultural specialists or others who could contribute to your project. Plan how you will use and share your findings, through publication, artwork, or another form of presentation.

4. Contact a couple of people to describe your interests, and inquire about their familiarity with your topic and possible willingness to be interviewed. Would they be able to come to your school to meet your class? Identify the person who seems to be the best fit, and find out enough particulars on the phone (such as where they were when), so that you can do additional research on those specifics. Record your sources.

5. Based on your research, write up a list of interview questions. If you are working with a group, you may want to assign questions and also leave room for questions that come up during the interview. Be prepared in your interview to listen carefully, ask follow-up questions, and adapt your questions as you proceed.

6. Decide on your method of documentation. Will there be note-takers? Can you record and then transcribe the interview? Plan for what elements of context you will record, such as date, place, people who were present, and more.

7. After writing up an interview, check your record with someone else who was present. Consider giving your record to your subject to read, so they have an opportunity to correct any misunderstandings.