Work through the entire story, making frequent stops to discuss what has happened and to collaboratively plan what will happen next. Repeat the story several times to provide opportunities for students to try several roles. Assessment Observe students' attentiveness in listening and responding to the narrator's cues. Observe students' efforts to use voice, facial expression, gestures and actions to assist the narrator in communicating the story. Reflective discussions following story theatre experiences should reveal students' comprehension of the story and their abilities to interpret characters and events by analyzing dialogue and actions.
Video taping story theatre activities can assist evaluation procedures.
Encourage students to participate orally in the story dialogue and as narrators. Although props and simple costume pieces such as hats or capes may be used, these are not necessary. Review appropriate audience behaviour with students. Emphasize story exploration and enjoyment of the story theatre experience rather than polished performances. What Students Learn about Language and Literature Personal interpretations of literature can be expanded by considering the views and understandings of others.