STORYTELLING IN ENGLISH

STORYTELLING IN ENGLISH

Introduction - Reflection

Warming up our minds…

Close your eyes and let me guide you through

a relaxing reflection.

What are the most important aspects of storytelling?

• For the listener?

– The story is engaging.

– The storyteller is engaging.

– The listener can participate in the storytelling.

• For the storyteller?

– Choose the right story.

– Make the storytelling fun and interesting.

– Include the listeners in the storytelling.

Characteristics of Young Learners

ü  Impulsive

ü  Inquisitive

ü  Energetic

ü  Spontaneous

ü  Entertained

ü  Social

How do children learn?

ü  Children are active learners and thinkers.(Piaget, 1970)

ü  Children learn through social interaction.(Vygotsky, 1962)

ü  Children learn effectively through scaffolding by adults. (Bruner, 1983)

Rationale for using stories

ü  Stories use a holistic approach to language teaching.

ü  Stories support natural acquisition of language.

ü  Stories can introduce children to other cultures and attitudes.

ü  Stories help children develop critical thinking skills.

ü  Children love stories!

Techniques for storytelling

ü  If students are unfamiliar with storytelling, begin with short sessions.

ü  Have younger children sit on the floor around you.

ü  Read slowly and clearly.

ü  Make comments about the illustrations.

ü  Encourage children to take part in the storytelling.

ü  Vary the pace, tone and volume of voice.

ü  Pause where appropriate.

ü  Disguise your voice for different characters.

ü  Make sound effects where possible.

ü  10.Ask questions that involve children.

ü  11.Do not be afraid to repeat, expand, and reformulate.

Pre- and post storytelling activities

PRE-STORYTELLING ACTIVITIES

ü   Capture their attention.

ü   Connect to prior knowledge and experiences.

ü   Review language in the story children already know.

ü  Teach new vocabulary or expressions.

ü  Have children predict what will happen in the story.

ü  Give students a purpose for listening.

POST-STORYTELLING ACTIVITIES

ü  Q&A

ü  TPR (Total Physical Response)

ü  Group retelling

ü  Create your own ending

ü  Drama and role playing

ü  Story mapping

ü  Story boarding

ü  Games that check comprehension (e.g.,“Start & Stop”, retelling with mistakes, pictures out of order)