Mia has just been hired as a small-town newspaper reporter. On one of her first assignments, three young toddlers were run over by a tractor being driven by their grandfather, and two of them died. Explain how Mia should approach this story in general, and especially when dealing with witnesses and family members.

What will be an ideal response?

Varies. A sample answer follows. Journalists often have to bother people at some of their worst moments in life. When you ask someone about a particularly painful act, you have to know that you might provoke the wrath of a wounded individual. What you ask is not nearly as important as HOW you ask it or WHY you want to know it. Journalists are told to go get the story when the story needs to be told but to think about the broader ramifications of your choices. In the example given, Mia should recognize the extreme emotional nature of this situation, especially in a small community where most people are likely to know each other. She should be compassionate; think carefully before speaking; and ask questions in an appropriate way with an appropriate tone for the situation.