Title: Preparing for College Interviews: A Guide for IB Students

Objective: The objective of this lesson plan is to equip IB students with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively prepare for college interviews. By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Understand the purpose and importance of college interviews.
2. Identify key interview preparation strategies.
3. Demonstrate effective communication skills during interviews.
4. Reflect on personal experiences and strengths to articulate them confidently.

Duration: 60 minutes

Materials: - Whiteboard or flipchart - Markers - Handouts with sample interview questions - Laptop or projector for multimedia presentation

Procedure:

1. Introduction (5 minutes)
   • Begin the lesson by discussing the importance of college interviews in the admissions process.
   • Explain that college interviews provide an opportunity for students to showcase their personality, interests, and achievements beyond their application materials.
   • Emphasize that effective preparation is crucial for a successful interview.
2. Understanding the Interview Process (10 minutes)
   • Discuss the different types of college interviews, such as one-on-one, group, or panel interviews.
   • Explain the purpose of interviews, which is to assess the student’s fit for the college and to gauge their communication and interpersonal skills.
   • Highlight the importance of researching the college and its programs before the interview.
3. Key Preparation Strategies (15 minutes)
   • Introduce students to effective interview preparation strategies, such as: a. Researching the college: Encourage students to explore the college’s website, programs, faculty, and recent news to demonstrate their interest and knowledge during the interview. b. Practicing common interview questions: Provide handouts with sample interview questions and ask students to practice answering them in pairs or small groups. c. Preparing questions to ask: Discuss the importance of preparing thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer, which can demonstrate curiosity and engagement. d. Dressing appropriately: Explain the significance of dressing professionally for the interview to make a positive impression.
4. Communication Skills (20 minutes)
   • Discuss the importance of effective communication during interviews, including verbal and non-verbal cues.
   • Teach students the following communication skills: a. Active listening: Explain the importance of listening attentively to the interviewer’s questions and responding appropriately. b. Body language: Discuss the significance of maintaining good posture, making eye contact, and using appropriate gestures. c. Speaking confidently: Provide tips on speaking clearly, using appropriate vocabulary, and avoiding filler words. d. Answering concisely: Encourage students to practice answering questions concisely, focusing on key points.
5. Personal Reflection and Mock Interviews (10 minutes)
   • Ask students to reflect on their personal experiences, achievements, and strengths.
   • In pairs or small groups, have students conduct mock interviews, taking turns as the interviewer and interviewee.
   • Provide constructive feedback to help students improve their interview skills.
6. Conclusion and Wrap-up (5 minutes)
   • Recap the key points discussed during the lesson.
   • Encourage students to continue practicing their interview skills and seeking feedback from teachers, counselors, or peers.
   • Provide additional resources, such as websites or books, for further interview preparation.

Note: This lesson plan can be adapted and extended based on the specific needs and requirements of the IB students.