One of the elements of storytelling that could have a significant impact on the classroom environment is music or "the power of the soundtrack". Obviously, we have a great capacity to remember song lyrics -- why wouldn't we put that to use to aid student learning? In the position I will have next year -- library media specialist, I also believe that music could play a helpful role. The busiest time of the day in library is during the lunch and learning lab periods. During this time, students are checking out books, taking read up tests, and using the computers to complete homework. Sometimes, it can be very crazy (to say the least)! I think music could help calm down some of that potential craziness. I have an example to demonstrate that: two content areas of teachers using the computer lab to work on curriculum mapping. The seven teachers were in the lab on the second of two days of curriculum work, and although they were accomplishing some work, there was also a lot of general goofiness. Once someone threw in a CD, the focus and productivity improved dramatically. I think I could really use "the power of a soundtrack" in the background of the library to help provide a conducive and inviting learning environment.
Other storytelling elements that I feel could improve lessons are both dramatic questions and emotional content. I feel both of these elements can help students create connections, and for em, those connections are what lead to deeper learning and understanding. If students can connect something they read or something they are trying to learn to something they already know, they will be much more likely to actually learn and remember. I have implement both in my traditional classroom setting, but it is interesting to try to put these elements in play in my new role. I think I could use both dramatic questions and emotional content when creating bulletin boards or doing book talks. Obviously, these elements will come into play during book club discussions, too. Using these elements, in addition to helping kids make connections to what they are learning, will help peak student interest and spark student discussion.
