Section 5: The art of storytelling

Key Focus Question: How can you help pupils appreciate stories and develop their storytelling skills?

Keywords: stories; community; storytelling; writing; culture; group work

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this section, you will have:

  • planned and managed classroom activities to develop an appreciation of stories and storytelling;
  • used local contacts and resources to develop your knowledge about the culture of storytelling;
  • devised and used strategies to help pupils write their own stories.

Introduction

Stories have been part of human history for centuries. In the past, stories often delivered important messages. The listeners would laugh, cry and sometimes sing along with the storyteller.

It is the ability to carry messages that makes stories so valuable for you, as a teacher. The activities, case studies and resources in this section are intended to help you use this rich heritage to develop your pupils’ skills in the art of writing, telling and reciting stories. This will develop their sense of belonging and give them insight into their cultural heritage.

Resource 6: Musical pipes

1. Listening to and telling stories