1-20-10 A teacher works with students to depict a Mardi Gras scene with masked revelers
Friends:
Today, I visited Quitman Upper Elementary. It was such a fun day! I did three Story Fest story theater workshops and a professional development workshop for the teachers at the end of the day.
1-20-10 4th & 5th grade portraying a mechanic fixing his car
My first and second assemblies consisted of 4th and 5th graders. I spoke to them about my method of story theater and explained that we would be doing role playing exercises to warm up. They did such an incredible job with their individual, partner and group exercises.
1-20-10 Monkeys climb a tree while hungry lions wait at the bottom
When I asked the students questions about what they learned from the Story Fest activity, a 4th grade girl named Jaden, responded, “You are never too old or too young to use your imagination.” I couldn’t have said it better myself, Jaden!
1-20-10 4th & 5th grade students portraying a king on a Mardi Gras float with parade revelers
With the third grade, I performed Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach in an assembly program. It was one of the most lively, interactive performances I have ever had of this story. When the roaches danced, the students not only sang, but added additional beats, creating an awesome hip hop rhythm for the story. It was incredible!
1-20-10 Dianne sneaks up on an unsuspecting teacher during Madame Poulet & Monsieur Roach
After the story, I moved the 3rd grade group out to the gym floor and performed story theater exercises with them. It was well received. They had a blast!
1-20-10 A 3rd grade teacher works with a student portraying a mechanic fixing his car
My day ended with a professional development workshop with the teachers. Though most of them had seen Story Fest in action with their students, I gave them different roles to act out.
Then they rehearsed and performed a story theater piece: “The City Mouse and the Country Mouse. It was so cute and full of animated storytellers, a rhythmic chorus, scarves, and rhythm instruments.
1-20-10 Teachers perform story theater - The City Mouse and the Country Mouse
Quitman Upper Elementary loves integrating the arts. Just look at this gorgeous mural in the front office!
1-20-10 Quitman Upper Elementary front office mural - Wow!
I really enjoyed visiting the school. They had wonderful teachers, students and staff. Thank you to Tara Tucker, Amy Johnson, and Mr. Kelly for making my day superb! I loved my Mississippi school visits!
1-20-10 A MAC art project - The Mississippi State Seal made with natural materials
Until next time…
Warmly, Dianne
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