We started with storystarter tools, such as cards, dice, stones and an online tool.
- Students created their own dice: in Microsoft Word, they typed 6 words (one on each line) for each die they were creating, then they printed and cut-and-pasted them onto each of the 6-sides. I spiced it up and created several dice with the students pictures on them. We used these dice in groups of 4. Each child would take a turn shaking the dice and telling a story with the 5 items that they rolled. This was great fun (and quite noisy, what with all the laughing going on).
- I created stones: If we had more time, this would have been one of our stations during the first or second class. Using modge-podge, affix different stickers and pictures (cut from magazine, clipart, photos) to stones. In pairs, the students selected 3-rocks each and jointly told a story, alternating between each child. A more difficult twist, have partner #1 select a rock and begin the story, then partner #2 selects one rock and continues the story. Keep alternating until the story runs its course or you run out of rocks!
- As a full group, we used storytelling cards and told one large group story. Again, it can get quite loud, as everyone wants to help give their ideas for the story!
- We then jumped on the computers and used Scholastic's Story Starters website. With the sound on, this got a bit loud and we eventually decided, as a group, that it was better to turn the sound off while working on this website. This website allows students to spin wheels to generate different parts of the story idea. When they have a full story idea that they like, there are several writing projects for them to work on (i.e. write a postcard).
I also encouraged students to PLAN their stories. We talked about characters, setting, conflict and resolution. We started simple, by writing a 3-page story. Students had to draw the pictures and write the text (and have it edited by me). We used a simple graphic organizer to capture their ideas. Once they had there artwork done, we took pictures of them with a digital camera and saved them to our school network. Then, we used a fun online tool called LittleBirdTales to create out stories. The best part was that the students could also record themselves reading their books. The finished books were embedded on our website, so that they could easily share their stories with the families.
Another tool that we used was ZooBurst. I actually upgraded my teacher account for the month, so that we could also add our voices and sounds to our stories. ZooBurst allows you to create a 3D pop-up book online, complete with a "popping" sound when your characters pop-up from the page! I created a starter book for them, similar to a mad lib. The book was titled "My Pet" and the students picked what type of pet they wanted, described what it looked like, who they would visit with their pet (I uploaded images of all their classmates, so they were encouraged to add them to their stories), and where they would go (i.e. school, library, park, zoo, etc.). The students loved this tool and had a blast adding sounds to their pets and their voice to each of their characters.
Both tools allow you to create a teacher account, so that you can setup student accounts. Students do NOT need email accounts, nor do they need to register! Both of these tools provide the teacher with control of the student accounts and activity. If anything inappropriate is added, you have the authority to remove it. You can also comment on the students' work online. ZooBurst even lets you provide audio feedback!
We had fun and the students were able to show off their creativity, as well as their technology skills. It was great to watch kids figure out some things on their own and/or help a fellow classmate out.
Check out these two great online storytelling tools:
- www.littlebirdtales.com
- www.zooburst.com
