Granny Smith is brought to you by a third grader who made the life of apples magically believable through storytelling. I am so appreciative of the many exemplar student examples like this one that have come to my desk from DigiTales Camp Graduates. It is inspiring to experience  the creativity and craftmanship of Camp Grads taking digital storytelling back home to their own teachers and students.  

 

Because good storytelling uses a personal narrative approach in order to bring the experience ALIVE for viewers, the quality of the voiceover can make all the difference. Not only do we want the technical quality to be honoring of the author’s efforts but even more important is the coaching of authors to “perform” their stories rather than read them. Performing provides an emotional connection for viewers. If the author feels the story and facts, they are able to convey the ideas and information with more “sticking” power or memorability for viewers.

 

Expect authors to rehearse until they connect emotionally with their content which also conveniently allows mastery of the many state oral speaking standards. Coach authors in using the pacing and tone of their voice intentionally so that stories, events, learning, and experiences are very very real for viewers. Experience the playfulness of personification. This docu-Dramas created a student task that enagages creativity, higher order thinking along with a very credible demonstration of what the student learned about apples woven into this enchanting digital storytelling.

 

Acknowlegements to Seminole County Schools - a fun loving group of DigiTales Camp Graduates! Thanks for sharing that other teachers may be inspired to use this approach with their own.