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Story Stones Adventure

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Ruby Olacio

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Story Stones Adventure Lesson Plan

Students will create and use story stones as prompts to collaboratively craft imaginative tales, enhancing narrative skills and teamwork.

This lesson reinforces oral language, creativity, and social cooperation by engaging students in an interactive, hands-on storytelling experience.

Audience

Grades 1-4

Time

60 minutes

Approach

Interactive, hands-on activity with guided storytelling.

Materials

Story Stones Adventure Lesson Plan, Painted Pebbles or Stones, Acrylic Paints, Paint Brushes, and Paper and Pencils

Prep

Preparation

15 minutes

  • Review the Story Stones Adventure Lesson Plan details.
  • Gather all necessary materials: painted stones, acrylic paints, brushes, paper, and pencils.
  • Prepare a sample story stone by painting a simple image to demonstrate to students.
  • Arrange stones and materials on accessible workstations.

Step 1

Introduction and Discussion

10 minutes

  • Introduce the concept of story stones and explain how they can spark storytelling ideas.
  • Have a brief class discussion on favorite stories and what makes a story exciting.
  • Pose questions to engage students about using pictures as prompts.

Step 2

Stone Painting Activity

20 minutes

  • Distribute the stones and painting supplies among students.
  • Instruct students to paint one or two symbols or images on their stones that could prompt a part of a story.
  • Circulate, offering suggestions and praise creativity.

Step 3

Storytelling Session

15 minutes

  • Arrange students into small groups.
  • Have each group randomly select a stone and use the painted image as a starting point to create a story collaboratively.
  • Encourage students to build on each other's ideas and maintain an engaging narrative.

Step 4

Sharing and Reflection

5 minutes

  • Ask groups to share key moments from their stories with the class.
  • Facilitate a brief discussion about what made the stories interesting and how the story stones sparked their creativity.
  • Provide positive reinforcement and encourage continued practice of storytelling.
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Activity

Stone Painting Activity

This activity is designed to spark creativity and prepare students for the Story Stones Adventure. Below you'll find detailed instructions on painting your own story stones, along with creative prompts to get started. This hands-on exercise allows students in Grades 1-4 to explore painting techniques, practice fine motor skills, and experiment with using images to inspire storytelling.

What You'll Need

  • Painted Pebbles or Stones
  • Acrylic Paints in diverse colors
  • Paint Brushes (various sizes)
  • Paper and Pencils (for sketching and planning)


Activity Steps

1. Introduction to Painting Techniques (5 minutes)

  • Briefly discuss different painting techniques (e.g., dabbing, brushing, stippling) and show examples (the teacher can demonstrate on a sample stone).
  • Encourage students to think about how different techniques can express various symbols or feelings.


2. Brainstorming Symbols and Imagery (5 minutes)

  • Ask students: What images (like a star, heart, tree, or smiley face) could start or enhance a story?
  • Have students sketch a few ideas on paper before choosing one or two symbols to paint on their stone.


3. Painting Your Story Stone (20 minutes)

  • Distribute stones and materials among the students.
  • Explain the painting process: first, lightly sketch the chosen symbol on the stone with a pencil; then use brushes to paint the design.
  • Circulate the room to offer tips on mixing colors or refining brush strokes. Encourage creativity and personal expression.


4. Show and Tell (10 minutes)

  • Invite students to share their painted stones with the class.
  • Ask a few guiding questions: What symbol did you choose and why? How might this symbol spark the beginning of a story?
  • Provide positive feedback and encourage the sharing of ideas, setting the stage for the subsequent storytelling activity.


Follow-Up Points

  • Explore variations: Students can experiment with different textures or add details using markers or crayons after the paint dries.
  • Integrate into Story Stones Adventure: Transition seamlessly into the collaborative storytelling session by drawing connections between their painted images and potential story plots.
  • Reflect on the process: How did using art to express ideas feel different from using words alone?


Have fun painting and preparing your very own story stones, which will soon inspire fantastic tales in the Story Stones Adventure!

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lenny

Discussion

Story Stones Reflection Discussion

Overview

In this discussion, students will have the opportunity to share their experiences and reflect on the creative process used during the Story Stones Adventure. The discussion is designed for Grades 1-4 and encourages thoughtful responses about teamwork, creativity, and the art of storytelling.




Discussion Guidelines

  • Listen Actively: While one student is speaking, the others should listen carefully without interrupting.
  • Be Respectful: Everyone’s ideas are important. Share your thoughts kindly and encourage others.
  • Raise Your Hand: If you have something to share, please raise your hand and wait for your turn.
  • Be Honest: There are no wrong answers. We are here to learn about each other's creative process.







Guiding Questions

  1. Story Stone Inspiration:

    • What did you think about the image you painted on your stone?





    • How did that image help spark the beginning of your story?

  2. Teamwork in Storytelling:

    • How did working with your group help you think of new ideas for your story?





    • Can you share a moment when someone else's idea made your story more exciting?

  3. Creative Process:

    • What was your favorite part of creating your story stone?





    • What would you like to try differently next time, either in painting or in storytelling?

  4. Reflection on the Experience:

    • How did using a painted stone as a prompt change the way you thought about your story?





    • What did you learn about telling stories as a group?












Follow-Up Points

  • Encourage Sharing: After responding, invite a student to ask a follow-up question related to someone else's answer.
  • Personal Reflection: Allow time for students to jot down their thoughts before sharing to encourage deeper reflection.
  • Creative Expansion: Discuss how the ideas shared could be used in future storytelling or art projects.













Let's start by sharing one thought about your story stone. Who would like to share first?

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lenny