Introduction to Active Storytelling
Expert-defined terms from the Global Certificate Course in Active Storytelling for Children course at London School of International Business. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Introduction to Active Storytelling #
Introduction to Active Storytelling
Active storytelling is a dynamic and engaging approach to storytelling that invo… #
In the context of children's storytelling, active storytelling goes beyond simply reading a story aloud to actively involving children in the storytelling process. This approach not only captures children's attention but also enhances their comprehension, creativity, and critical thinking skills.
Active storytelling in the course "Global Certificate Course in Active Storytell… #
By incorporating elements such as role-playing, props, music, movement, and dialogue, active storytelling aims to make stories come alive and spark children's imagination.
Glossary of Terms #
Glossary of Terms
1 #
Active Storytelling
Concept #
Active storytelling is an interactive approach to storytelling that engages the audience and encourages participation through various elements such as role-playing, props, music, and movement.
Explanation #
Active storytelling involves more than just reading a story aloud. It encourages listeners to become active participants in the narrative by taking on roles, interacting with props, and engaging in dialogue. This approach not only captivates the audience but also enhances their understanding and enjoyment of the story.
Example #
In an active storytelling session, the storyteller may ask children to act out different characters in the story, use props to create a sensory experience, or encourage them to contribute to the plot development through improvisation.
2 #
Global Certificate Course in Active Storytelling for Children
Concept #
The Global Certificate Course in Active Storytelling for Children is a comprehensive training program designed to equip educators, parents, and storytellers with the skills and knowledge to create engaging and interactive storytelling experiences for children.
Explanation #
This course provides participants with the tools and techniques to effectively engage children in storytelling through active participation, creative expression, and critical thinking. It covers various aspects of storytelling, including story selection, storytelling techniques, audience engagement, and performance skills.
Example #
Participants in the Global Certificate Course in Active Storytelling for Children may learn how to use props and costumes to enhance storytelling, incorporate music and movement into their storytelling sessions, and adapt stories to suit different age groups and learning styles.
3 #
Audience Engagement
Concept #
Audience engagement refers to the level of involvement and interaction of the audience in a storytelling session. It measures how effectively the storyteller captures and maintains the audience's attention throughout the narrative.
Explanation #
Audience engagement is crucial in active storytelling as it determines the impact and effectiveness of the storytelling experience. By involving the audience in the narrative through interactive elements, the storyteller can create a more immersive and memorable experience for the listeners.
Example #
A high level of audience engagement can be achieved by using props, asking questions, encouraging participation, and creating opportunities for the audience to contribute to the story.
4. Role #
Playing
Concept #
Role-playing involves acting out characters and scenarios from a story, allowing participants to step into the shoes of different characters and experience the story from multiple perspectives.
Explanation #
Role-playing is a common technique used in active storytelling to enhance audience engagement and bring stories to life. By taking on different roles, participants can develop empathy, creativity, and communication skills while immersing themselves in the narrative.
Example #
In a role-playing activity, children may be assigned different characters from a story and asked to act out a scene, improvising dialogue and actions to create a more interactive and dynamic storytelling experience.
5 #
Props and Visual Aids
Concept #
Props and visual aids are objects, images, or materials used to enhance the storytelling experience by providing visual and tactile stimuli to the audience.
Explanation #
Props and visual aids are effective tools in active storytelling as they help to create a sensory-rich environment, spark imagination, and reinforce key elements of the story. They can range from simple objects like puppets and costumes to more elaborate sets and multimedia presentations.
Example #
A storyteller may use props such as a magic wand, a treasure chest, or a storytelling cape to enhance the storytelling experience and capture the audience's imagination.
6 #
Music and Sound Effects
Concept #
Music and sound effects are auditory elements used to create mood, atmosphere, and emotional impact in storytelling.
Explanation #
Music and sound effects play a crucial role in active storytelling by adding depth and dimension to the narrative. They can evoke emotions, enhance suspense, and engage the audience on a sensory level, making the storytelling experience more immersive and dynamic.
Example #
A storyteller may use background music, sound effects, or live music performances to accompany the narrative and create a multi-sensory storytelling experience for the audience.
7 #
Movement and Gesture
Concept #
Movement and gesture involve physical actions and expressions used by the storyteller and participants to convey emotions, actions, and relationships in storytelling.
Explanation #
Movement and gesture are essential components of active storytelling as they help to communicate meaning, enhance engagement, and bring characters and scenes to life. By using body language and expressive movements, storytellers can convey emotions, actions, and spatial relationships in a dynamic and engaging way.
Example #
A storyteller may use gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to animate characters, demonstrate actions, and create visual interest in the storytelling performance.
8 #
Dialogue and Interaction
Concept #
Dialogue and interaction involve verbal exchanges and communication between the storyteller and the audience, creating a dialogue-driven storytelling experience.
Explanation #
Dialogue and interaction play a vital role in active storytelling as they foster engagement, collaboration, and co-creation between the storyteller and the audience. By encouraging dialogue and interaction, the storyteller can build rapport, address questions, and adapt the narrative to the audience's responses.
Example #
A storyteller may engage the audience in a dialogue by asking questions, soliciting opinions, or encouraging feedback, creating a dynamic and interactive storytelling experience that invites active participation.
9 #
Creative Expression
Concept #
Creative expression refers to the process of using imagination, originality, and artistic skills to communicate ideas, emotions, and experiences through storytelling.
Explanation #
Creative expression is a fundamental aspect of active storytelling as it empowers participants to explore their creativity, express themselves authentically, and share their unique perspectives through storytelling. By encouraging creative expression, storytellers can foster individuality, self-confidence, and self-expression in participants.
Example #
In a creative storytelling workshop, participants may be encouraged to create their own stories, characters, or settings, using their imagination and artistic skills to bring their ideas to life in a collaborative storytelling environment.
10 #
Critical Thinking
Concept #
Critical thinking is the ability to analyze, evaluate, and interpret information, ideas, and arguments to make informed decisions and solve problems.
Explanation #
Critical thinking is an essential skill in active storytelling as it enables participants to engage with the narrative, evaluate different perspectives, and make connections between the story and real-world issues. By fostering critical thinking, storytellers can promote intellectual curiosity, cognitive flexibility, and analytical skills in participants.
Example #
In a critical thinking activity, participants may be asked to analyze the motives of a character, evaluate the consequences of a decision, or identify the underlying themes and messages in a story, encouraging them to think critically and reflect on the narrative.
11 #
Story Selection
Concept #
Story selection involves choosing appropriate stories, themes, and genres that are engaging, age-appropriate, and culturally relevant for the target audience.
Explanation #
Story selection is a critical aspect of active storytelling as it determines the success and impact of the storytelling experience. By selecting stories that resonate with the audience's interests, experiences, and cultural background, storytellers can create a meaningful and engaging storytelling session that connects with the listeners.
Example #
A storyteller may choose folktales, fables, myths, or contemporary stories that reflect the audience's cultural heritage, values, and interests, ensuring that the storytelling experience is relevant, relatable, and engaging for the listeners.
12 #
Storytelling Techniques
Concept #
Storytelling techniques are strategies, methods, and approaches used by storytellers to convey a narrative effectively, engage the audience, and create a compelling storytelling experience.
Explanation #
Storytelling techniques play a crucial role in active storytelling as they help storytellers to structure the narrative, build suspense, create vivid imagery, and maintain the audience's interest throughout the storytelling session. By mastering storytelling techniques, storytellers can enhance their storytelling skills, captivate the audience, and bring stories to life in a dynamic and engaging way.
Example #
Storytelling techniques may include using voice modulation, pacing, dramatic pauses, and storytelling patterns to create a rhythm, suspense, and emotional impact in the narrative, captivating the audience and enhancing the storytelling experience.
13 #
Audience Adaptation
Concept #
Audience adaptation involves tailoring the storytelling experience to suit the audience's age, interests, learning styles, and cultural background.
Explanation #
Audience adaptation is essential in active storytelling as it ensures that the storytelling experience is engaging, relevant, and accessible to the target audience. By adapting the storytelling content, style, and delivery to meet the audience's needs and preferences, storytellers can create a more inclusive and impactful storytelling session that resonates with the listeners.
Example #
An experienced storyteller may adapt the storytelling pace, language, and content to suit the age group, attention span, and cultural background of the audience, ensuring that the storytelling experience is engaging, interactive, and meaningful for all participants.
14 #
Story Mapping
Concept #
Story mapping is a visual tool used to analyze, structure, and organize the key elements of a story, including characters, settings, plot, themes, and conflicts.
Explanation #
Story mapping is a valuable technique in active storytelling as it helps storytellers to plan, sequence, and present the story in a coherent and engaging way. By mapping out the story elements, relationships, and developments, storytellers can create a clear and compelling narrative that captures the audience's attention and imagination.
Example #
In a story mapping activity, participants may use diagrams, charts, or storyboards to visualize the structure of a story, identify key plot points, and analyze the character arcs, conflicts, and resolutions, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the narrative.
15 #
Story Development
Concept #
Story development involves creating, adapting, or expanding a story by adding new elements, characters, settings, or plot twists to enhance the narrative and engage the audience.
Explanation #
Story development is a creative process in active storytelling that allows storytellers to personalize, innovate, and reimagine stories to suit the audience's interests, preferences, and learning goals. By developing the story, adding interactive elements, and adapting the narrative to the audience's responses, storytellers can create a unique and engaging storytelling experience that resonates with the listeners.
Example #
A storyteller may develop a traditional folktale by introducing new characters, changing the setting, or adding interactive elements such as songs, dances, or dialogue, transforming the story into a dynamic and immersive storytelling experience for the audience.
16 #
Story Reflection
Concept #
Story reflection involves reflecting on, analyzing, and discussing the key themes, messages, and lessons of a story to deepen understanding, promote critical thinking, and foster personal growth.
Explanation #
Story reflection is an essential component of active storytelling as it encourages participants to engage with the narrative on a deeper level, explore different perspectives, and extract meaning and insights from the story. By reflecting on the story, discussing its themes, and sharing personal reflections, participants can develop empathy, self-awareness, and critical thinking skills.
Example #
After a storytelling session, participants may engage in a reflective discussion, journaling, or creative expression activity to explore the themes, characters, and messages of the story, reflecting on their own experiences, emotions, and insights inspired by the narrative.
17 #
Story Sharing
Concept #
Story sharing involves sharing personal stories, experiences, and perspectives with others in a storytelling setting to build connections, foster empathy, and create a sense of community.
Explanation #
Story sharing is a collaborative and interactive practice in active storytelling that encourages participants to share their own stories, memories, and insights in a supportive and respectful environment. By sharing stories, listening to others, and engaging in dialogue, participants can build connections, develop empathy, and celebrate diversity through the power of storytelling.
Example #
In a story sharing circle, participants may take turns sharing personal stories, reflections, or experiences inspired by a common theme, topic, or prompt, fostering a sense of community, connection, and mutual understanding through storytelling.
18 #
Storytelling Performance
Concept #
Storytelling performance is the art of delivering a story through live narration, acting, music, and visual elements to engage, entertain, and inspire the audience.
Explanation #
Storytelling performance is a dynamic and expressive form of active storytelling that combines verbal, visual, and auditory elements to create a captivating and memorable storytelling experience. By using voice, body language, props, and music to enhance the narrative, storytellers can transform stories into immersive and interactive performances that engage the audience on multiple levels.
Example #
A storytelling performance may involve a storyteller using voice modulation, gestures, facial expressions, and music to bring characters and scenes to life, creating a theatrical and engaging storytelling experience that captivates the audience.
19 #
Story Sequencing
Concept #
Story sequencing involves arranging, organizing, and presenting the events, actions, and developments of a story in a logical and coherent order to enhance the narrative flow and comprehension.
Explanation #
Story sequencing is an essential aspect of active storytelling as it helps to structure the narrative, build suspense, and guide the audience through the story's progression. By sequencing the events, transitions, and resolutions effectively, storytellers can create a cohesive and engaging storytelling experience that captivates the audience from beginning to end.
Example #
In a story sequencing activity, participants may arrange story cards, timeline diagrams, or plot outlines to visualize the sequence of events, identify key plot points, and analyze the narrative structure, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the story.
20 #
Storytelling Prompts
Concept #
Storytelling prompts are cues, questions, or stimuli used to inspire creativity, spark imagination, and guide storytelling activities in a group setting.
Explanation #
Storytelling prompts are helpful tools in active storytelling as they provide a starting point, structure, or theme to inspire storytelling activities and encourage participants to create their own stories. By using prompts, storytellers can stimulate creativity, prompt reflection, and facilitate storytelling sessions that are engaging, interactive, and collaborative.
Example #
Storytelling prompts may include visual images, objects, words, or scenarios that prompt participants to create a story, develop characters, or explore a specific theme, sparking their imagination and creativity in the storytelling process.
21 #
Story Adaptation
Concept #
Story adaptation involves modifying, reinterpreting, or updating a traditional story to make it more engaging, relevant, and accessible to a contemporary audience.
Explanation #
Story adaptation is a creative practice in active storytelling that allows storytellers to reimagine, personalize, and adapt stories to suit the audience's interests, preferences, and cultural background. By adapting the story, updating the language, and incorporating interactive elements, storytellers can breathe new life into traditional tales and make them more engaging and relatable to modern audiences.
Example #
A storyteller may adapt a classic folktale by changing the setting, updating the language, or adding contemporary references to make the story more relevant and engaging for a contemporary audience, ensuring that the storytelling experience resonates with the listeners.
22 #
Story Retelling
Concept #
Story retelling involves recounting, summarizing, or narrating a story from memory or based on a written text, adapting the narrative to suit the audience and context.
Explanation #
Story retelling is a common practice in active storytelling that allows participants to engage with a story, internalize its themes, and develop their storytelling skills by retelling the narrative in their own words. By retelling the story, adding personal insights, or changing the perspective, participants can deepen their understanding and appreciation of the narrative while honing their communication and memory skills.
Example #
In a story retelling activity, participants may take turns retelling a story, summarizing its key events, and adding their own interpretations or reflections to create a unique and personalized retelling that reflects their understanding and perspective on the narrative.
23 #
Story Creation