2-10-10 Ms. Guidry's third grade class at Strehle Elementary performs The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking

My life has been a safari of stories. Early on, I knew I wanted to share stories. It became my life’s dream, which I realize through storytelling and writing books.

Many of today’s families are not “storied” families. Stories are not a daily part of life. They are not shared at the “campfire” – the dinner table. There are a vast amount of children who do not have a basic foundation of nursery rhymes and folktales. Few teachers have time to tell stories. There are benchmarks to meet as well as tests to administer. Stories are pre-fabricated for our children in the form of television, movies, and video games, leaving little room for the imagination and leaving behind a generation of children with minimal exposure to traditional tales. But we have the pivotal opportunity to create change.

Wild About Storytelling and Reading
Storytelling is an important part of introducing children to oral traditions and the development of imaginations. There is a direct correlation between storytelling and reading. In a paper titled, “Storytelling and the Emergent Reader” presented at the International Reading Association World Congress 2000, Eve Marlo and Julie Bullard state, “The child who is consistently exposed to an oral tradition of stories gains skills that prepare him/her for reading. …telling stories is a successful way to encourage literacy.”

Navigating the Jungle
How can you “navigate the jungle?” Share traditional tales. Teach parents storytelling techniques. Arm them with knowledge and fortify them with skills. Below are several tips to promote literacy through storytelling.

Pre-School – Pre-school children (Ages 3-5) are acquiring language. They are learning new words and building vocabulary. Encourage retelling by sharing simple stories with rhythm, rhyme, and repetition. Story examples: “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt,” “The Little Red Hen,” and “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.”

Lower Elementary – Lower elementary-aged children (Ages 6-9) are more confident with their vocabularies and their ability to read unassisted. They are delving into chapter books with a heavier dose of vocabulary. They enjoy imaginative stories and enjoy role-playing (playing “house,” “school,” “doctor,” etc.). Share stories with elements of magic (folktales and fairy tales) and fantasy (talking animals). Audience participation also works well. Story examples: “The Bremen Town Musicians,” “Cinderella,” and “The Lion and the Mouse.”

Upper Elementary – Upper elementary-aged children (Ages 10-12) are independent readers. They enjoy stories with a sense of adventure and stories that challenge them to “figure things out.” They have an affinity for well-developed characters and stories that boast a more intricate plot (i.e., Harry Potter). They like heroes. Share stories that focus on the character’s independence, courage, and wit. Story examples: “Paul Bunyan” stories, “Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves,” and “Jack and the Beanstalk.”

The Life-Long Safari
Children possess a natural curiosity to explore the world. Storytelling enables them to do just that. Through that process, we build life-long learners. We must foster the ability to read as well as inspire a life-long love of stories in order for children to continue on their own successful safari through life.

4-17-10 Performing How Funky Is Your Chicken at the Zachary Area Reading Council Conference

Friends:

On Saturday, I was the keynote speaker for the Zachary Area Reading Council (ZARC) in Zachary, Louisiana. They are a chapter of the International Reading Association. I spoke and gave two break-out sessions, “Handmade Tales,” and “Story Fest.”

In my “Handmade Tales” workshop, I taught the teachers several make and take tales that they could integrate into their lesson plans and teach the students. They did cut and tell tales, draw and tell tales, fold and tell tales, and I even showed them a little bit of Tangram Tales.

4-17-10 ZARC Handmade Tales workshop participants create a snow blizzard with coffee filter snowflakes

They loved making Bandana Man and I surprised them by giving them the bandanas to keep.

4-17-10 ZARC Handmade Tales workshop participants make Bandana Man

My second session was “Story Fest: Reading Comprehension through Story Theater.” They did individual, partner and group role playing warm-up exercises. Boy, did they stretch their imaginations and have fun!

4-17-10 ZARC Story Fest workshop participants portray a woman walking her dog in central park

It was fun seeing them move through the task progression into group work.

4-17-10 ZARC Teachers in Story Fest workshop portray a football player kicking a ball through the field goal posts

The culminating activity of the workshop was the creation and performance of a group story theater: “The Turtle Who Would Not Stop Talking.”

It was a great day and I enjoyed working with all those wonderful teachers. Thank you Michelle Cardonella for driving all the way from the North Shore to see me! Thank you to Heather Stone for coordinating the event and my schedule. And a special thank you to Holly Stone-Barker for housing me and arranging a book signing at Jack and Jill that afternoon in Zachary, Louisiana.

Up next: an author visit to Zachary Elementary on Monday, April 19, 2010.

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

4-16-10 Dianne de Las Casas signing books at ABC-Clio Libraries Unlimited

Friends:

What a busy week it’s been! I attended the Texas Library Association Conference in San Antonio, Texas with my two illustrators, Marita Gentry and Holly Stone-Barker. My days were non-stop, running from book signing to book signing. I signed at both of my publishers, ABC-Clio Libraries Unlimited and Pelican Publishing Company. The only time I got to see the Riverwalk was from my 27th floor room balcony!

4-15-10 View from private balcony at Marriott Riverwalk in San Antonio, Texas

That evening, Marita, Holly and I attended the Storytelling Swap at the Grand Hyatt. Marita and I told a 7 minute version of Madame Poulet & Monsieur Roach, with her drawing the tale as I told. It was so much fun and everyone loved it. The next day, when we signed books, we had a lot of librarians come to buy the book because of our performance.

On Thursday, the girls and I hit the ground running. We signed books at Pelican Publishing during the Exhibit Hall opening from 10am-12pm. It was crazy buzy with non-stop signing for all three of us.

4-15-10 Holly Stone-Barker, Dianne de Las Casas & Marita Gentry sign books

I was lucky enough to get a picture with my good friend, Phil Bildner, a fellow author and amazing person. Phil started a non-profit called NOLATREE. He lives in NYC but takes youth to New Orleans during the summer to rebuild the 9th Ward and areas devated by Hurricane Katrina. Phil, you totally ROCK!

4-15-10 Dianne de Las Casas with Author Phil Bildner

I had a lot of librarians who came looking for me. It was a good day!

4-15-10 Dianne de Las Casas & Marita Gentry with a librarian fan

In the afternoon, I signed books with ABC-Clio Libraries Unlimited. Again, it was busy but fun because I got to see people I adore like Debby LaBoon, my author rep and Sharon Coatney, my editor. Plus, I got to see a lot of librarians I knew as well as making a lot of new connections!

4-15-10 Dianne de Las Casas with a fan at the ABC-Clio Libraries Unlimited booth

Later that evening, I went to dinner with Shannon, an editor with Libraries Unlimited, Kendall Haven, an LU author with nearly 25 LU titles, Debby LaBoon, and Sharon Coatney. We ate at a charming restaurant called Josephine Street Cafe, which had a tree growing in the middle! The food was delicious but the company was even better.

4-15-10 Shannon, Sharon & Debby from Libraries Unlimited

On Friday, Marita, Holly and I headed back to the convention center to sign more books with Pelican Publishing. At the beginning of my signing, Eric Kimmel, author extraordinaire and my friend, came to see me. I was so touched that he stopped by! Thank you, Eric. I <3 U!

4-15-10 Dianne de Las Casas & Author Eric Kimmel

I was also fortunate enough to hang out with the amazing Matthew Gollub, who is an author and phenomenal performer. On Thursday night, I went to the Doo Wop dance with Shannon from Libraries Unlimited and hung out with the two of them all night. What fun! Thanks for swapping tips with me, Matthew. You are one cool dude!

4-16-10 Author & Performer Matthew Gollub with Dianne de Las Casas

My last signing was at ABC-Clio Libraries Unlimited, where the company interviewed me for a video podcast. I’ll let you know when the video is up. After signing, I had a little while to walk the exhibit hall, find friends, and shop. I happened to catch Jenni Holm, my friend and the author of the Baby Mouse series. Her 2 year old daughter, Millie, was with her. I sat on the floor with Millie and told stories while her mom signed books. Typical! LOL But I had a ton of fun with Millie!

4-16-10 Dianne de Las Casas with Author Jennifer Holm (Baby Mouse) and her 2 year old daughter, Millie

We had to leave on Friday evening because I had a keynote and workshop to present on Saturday so I had to stop at the San Antonio airport store to buy gifts for Eliana. To my delight and surprise, I was privileged to meet Suzanne Collins, the author of The Hunger Games series. Suzanne and I were both buying “tortilla warmers.” She was so sweet that she let me pick the one I liked best. Despite all her success, she remains humble and gracious. Now, I am an even BIGGER fan! Thanks, Suzanne!

4-16-10 Author Suzanne Collins (The Hunger Games series) and Dianne de Las Casas buying tortilla warmers at the San Antonio Airport store

The Texas Library Association conference was rockin’ awesome and I had a blast. I look forward to attending next year, with several new books including There’s a Dragon in the Library, illustrated by Marita Gentry.

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

2-5-10 Ms. Glass third grade storytellers rehearse Turtle & Beaver's Race

Friends:

Friday was my 7th day at Strehle Elementary in Avondale, Louisiana doing my Story Fest story theater residency. It was the Friday before the BIG GAME. The New Orleans Saints were playing in the Super Bowl and the whole school had team spirit!

2-5-10 It's Who Dat spirit at Strehle!

My day started in Ms. Giroir’s PK classroom. It was my second visit in the class and I told the story of “Sody Sallyraytus.” Then we explored creative movement with scarves to jazz music. Fun!

2-5-10 Dianne tells Sody Sallyraytus to Ms. Giroir's PK students

Then it was on to Ms. Robinson’s PK class, right next door. They were seated and waiting quietly for me. Boy, did we have a blast! It was my second visit there too and they loved the story of “Sody Sallyraytus.” Not only did we dance with scarves, but we also second-lined around the room!

2-5-10 Ms. Robinson's PK students enjoy storytelling!

Next, it was on to Ms. Clausing’s kindergarten class. The students had fun with the story and again, loved dancing with the scarves.

2-5-10 Ms. Clausing's Kindergarteners dance with scarves

My next class was Ms. Williams’ 5th grade homeroom but I followed the room number on my schedule and oops, I ended up in the wrong class. Fortunately, Ms. Williams’ students and I had time to rehearse their story, “The Lion and the Mouse.” It’s so cute. I can’t wait to see them perform it!

2-5-10 Ms. Williams' 5th grade storytellers all have Saints spirit!

After lunch, I had an unexpected break so I signed books for the teachers who placed an order. Then it was on to Ms. Landry’s class. Unfortunately, Ms. Landry had to attend a meeting and the class was uncharacteristically rambunctious. I had to admonish the class several times and try to maintain order. For the first time ever, I actually sent students to detention! It broke my heart but it had to be done. I was finally able to settle them down enough to go through one rehearsal of their story. I hope they are ready on performance day.

2-5-10 Ms. Landry's 4th grade story chorus

My last class was Ms. Glass’ third grade class. They did such a wonderful job with their story, “Turtle and Beaver’s Race.” It was a pleasure to work with them. I love what they did with their story chorus.

2-5-10 Ms. Glass third grade story chorus does a great job

At the end of the day, announcements came on. Over the speaker the office said, “We have only one announcement…” Then they played “Get Crunk,” the Saints’ touchdown song! Ms. Glass and her students began dancing. Then we all chanted, “Who Dat!” It was so much fun and a great way to end the day!!”

2-5-10 Strehle students stand up and Get Crunk! at the end of the day during afternoon announcements

I am nearing the end of my residency. One more full day to go and then two half days. My third, fourth and fifth graders perform on Tuesday and Wednesday for each other in grade level performances and for the lower grades. Fourth grade will perform for first grade. Fifth grade will perform for second grade. Third grade will perform for PK and kindergarten. I look forward to it.

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

2-4-10 Mardi Gras shoe box floats in the cafeteria for judging

Friends:

Today was the sixth day of my Story Fest residency at Strehle Elementary in Avondale, Louisiana. My first class was Ms. Hoadley’s PK class. It was my first visit and the students were tickled to hear Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach. I love how they laugh when I do Madame Poulet’s voice. Then, by special request from one of the teachers’ assistants, I told my story, “Rockin Three Billy Goats.” We had a blast!

2-4-10 Ms. Hoadley's PK students participate in Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach story

My second class was Ms. Jones’ kindergarten class. It was my second visit so I told the story of “Sody Sallyraytus.” Then we danced with scarves to jazz music. The students loved it.

Ms. Jones and Ms. Brenda got their new Strehle Saints shirts and I had to have them strike a pose. Too cute!

2-4-10 Ms. Jones and Ms. Brenda pose with their new Strehle Saints Super Bowl shirts

Next, I headed to Ms. King’s kindergarten class. They were waiting for me and so excited to see me. They listened to “Sody Sallyraytus,” danced to jazz music, and even second-lined around the room to New Orleans brass band music. We had a kickin’ time!

2-4-10 Ms. King's class second lines around the room

Then it was time for Ms. Davis’ special ed PK class. I told my story, “Rockin Three Billy Goats” and the students enjoyed it. Ms. Davis told me that a couple of years ago, one of her students really took to that story from my Jump, Jiggle & Jam CD. He learned the story and could retell the whole story. She said that story has been special to her since then. It really touched my heart to hear that story. Thank you for sharing, Ms. Davis!

2-4-10 Giant student art in Ms. Davis' special ed PK class

After my storytelling, we danced to jazz music and had so much fun!

2-4-10 Dancing with Ms. Davis' PK special ed students

During my lunch, I read a stack of letters and looked at drawings from Ms. Hervey’s first grade students. They were so precious. I wish I could show you all of them but here is one of my favorites, an illustration of Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach. Wow! Thank you, Ms. Hervey’s class!

2-4-10 A student from Ms. Hervey's first grade class illustrates Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach

Don’t you just love this picture of me?!!!

2-4-10 It's Ms. Dianne!

After lunch, I went to Ms. A. Hoadley’s second grade class. They were so jazzed to see me. Ms. Hoadley and the students cheered when I walked in the class. What a feeling! It was my first visit so I told the story of Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach. Boy, did the students get into the story! They laughed so hard. At the end of the day, Ms. Hoadley delivered handmade cards. They are adorable – I will post some pics of them in tomorrow’s blog.

2-4-10 Eating a roach in Ms. Hoadley's second grade class

Ms. Hoadley and I posed for pictures in front of her SUPER BOWL SAINTS bulletin board. She is so creative. The boys decorated footballs while the girls decorated fleur de lis. What a great board!

2-4-10 Ms. Dianne and Ms. Ally Hoadley in front of her Saints Super Bowl bulletin board

Then it was on to Ms. Till’s fourth grade class. The fourth grade was split up this week with the addition of a “new” fourth grade teacher to alleviate overcrowding in the grade. They moved Ms. Vega from second grade into fourth. As a result, my fourth grade classes are all “mixed up.” Fortunately, the fourth grade teachers worked with me and let me keep the original students for each story that I assigned. Ms. Till’s “old” class was as chatty as they were last time and it was a challenge to keep the entire group on task. Still, we managed to put together a really cool story theater with a beat master, a story chorus, dancers, and a solo dancer. Combined with the storytellers, their story is really good. If they can pull it together and perform as a cohesive group, it will be a phenomenal performance.

2-4-10 Ms. Till's fourth grade class rehearses The City Mouse and the Country Mouse

My last class was Ms. Glass’ third grade class. It was my first visit with them. After eating some king cake with the students, I assigned roles for storytellers and the story chorus in the story, “Beaver and Turtle’s Race.” Then we did my Story Fest warm-up activities with them acting out roles. They loved it. We had some time at the end and the students created the rap for their story chorus. It is so cute.

2-4-10 Ms. Glass' third grade acts out the role of a school bus filled with mischievous kids

I had a great day at Strehle. Look at what Ms. Hoadley’s PK class said! Awwwww. I love y’all too! I look forward to tomorrow at Strehle.

2-4-10 Ms. Hoadley's PK students express how they feel about Ms. Dianne and her story

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

2-3-10 Dancing to world music with Ms. Robinson's PK

Friends:

Today was my fifth day at Strehle Elementary in Avondale, Louisiana doing my Story Fest residency. My first class was Ms. Short’s first graders. Oh, they were such a sweet and fun group. This was my second visit and they were so excited to see me and hugged me as soon as I walked in the door. I told them the story of “Sody Sallyraytus” and they loved it. Afterwards, we danced to jazz and Mardi Gras music. We even did a second line. Ms. Short even gave me a gift when I left the class – a candied pretzel. Yum!

2-3-10 Telling Sody Sallyratus to Ms. Short's happy first graders

It was then on to Ms. Robinson’s pre-K class. The students were all waiting for me in a quiet circle. It was my first visit and I told them the story of Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach. They cracked up every time I said, “Monsieur Roooooooach.” They also loved singing and dancing with me.

2-3-10 Telling Madame Poulet & Monsieur Roach to Ms. Robinson's pre-K class

My next stop was Ms. Badeaux’s second grade class. It was my second visit and again, the students were so excited to see me. They gave me a big group hug. Then I noticed all the marvelous Mardi Gras floats created from shoe boxes. So cool!

2-3-10 Mardi Gras Shoebox floats from Ms. Badeaux's second grade class

I told the story of Sody Sallyraytus and taught them about alliteration. Then we did some “word whizzling,” making new words out of a long word. We used the words “Sody Sallyraytus.” Together, we found 26 words!

2-3-10 Ms. Badeaux's second graders concentrate on creating new words out of Sody Sallyraytus

I moved on to Ms. Walter’s 5th grade homeroom in Ms. Walker’s class. It was our third and last classroom visit and we rehearsed their story, “The Ant and the Grasshopper.” This class is so good. They really have their act together.

2-3-10 The storytellers of The Ant and the Grasshopper in Ms. Walter's 5th grade class

All the storytellers rehearsed without a script and the story chorus totally rocked. I loved watching them in action. I am so excited about seeing them perform!! They are going to be phenomenal!!

2-3-10 The story chorus of The Ant and the Grasshopper in Ms. Walter's 5th grade class

After lunch, I visited Ms. Hervey’s first grade grade class. Again, there were cool shoe box Mardi Gras floats. I love this Saints Who Dat Nation float, in honor of the Saints making it the Super Bowl.

2-3-10 The Who Dat Nation Shoe Box Mardi Gras float from Ms. Hervey's first grade class

It was my second visit so I told the story of “Sody Sallyraytus.” They really enjoyed the story and after the story was finished, they kept asking me to re-enact the characters. Then we danced to Mardi Gras music with scarves and second-lined around the room. It was fun.

2-3-10 Ms. Hervey's first graders open their big bear mouths and take a big bear bite in the story, Sody Sallyraytus

Next, I visited Ms. Creecy’s 4th grade class. The students did a good job with their story, “The Tortoise and the Hare.” We did a few run-throughs and once the storytellers learn their parts, the story will be perfect. I love the story chorus with the pencil beat done by Angel. We even had other teachers stopping in to see what all the fun was about! Ms. Creacy’s class’ story chorus is so catchy! I can’t wait for performance day.

2-3-10 Ms. Creacy's 4th grade story chorus jams out in The Tortoise and the Hare

My last class was Ms. Johnson’s third grade class. The students did a nice job rehearsing their story, “The Frog and the Ox.” I love the multi-faceted parts of the story chorus. There are dancers and two “back-up” lines. They are using scarves and the result is stunning. The storytellers are learning their parts and tried hard to practice without a script today. Since this was our last rehearsal, the storytellers need to work on their lines so they can present a cohesive performance with their story chorus. Still, I love what the students have done with this story. They were fantastic!

2-3-10 Ms. Johnson's 3rd grade story chorus in formation for The Frog and the Ox

Being with the students today was uplifting and wonderfully restorative, after all that I have been through the past couple of days with my dad (who is recovering now). I love my work!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

1-28-10 Ms. Clausing's kindergarten class delights in the story, Madame Poulet & Monsieur Roach!

Friends:

Today was my fourth day in residency at Strehle Elementary in Avondale, Louisiana, doing my Story Fest story theater activities. It was Pajama Day and teacher and students were dressed in the cutest jammies! My first class was a special ed Pre-K class. I told the story of “Mr. Wiggle and Mr. Waggle” and did movement with scarves to world music. They did very well, moving to the music with their scarves.

1-28-10 Working with Ms. Davis' PK Special Ed

My next class was Ms. Jones’ kindergarten class. The kindergarteners loved the story of Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach. They were singing and dancing to the song and had a blast. Afterwards, we explored world music through scarves. It was a fun visit. I love the wonderment of the children when they are that young!

1-28-10 Telling Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach to Ms. Jones' kindergarten class

When I arrived at my next kindergarten class, Ms. Clausing’s little students were sitting on the carpet, criss cross applesauce, waiting for me. They were so quiet – until I started telling Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach. They loved Madame Poulet’s voice and antics. They laughted themselves silly. Then we danced with the scarves.

1-28-10 Ms. Clausing's kindergarten class dances La Morenada, creating butterflies, with scarves

Next, it was on to fifth grade to see Ms. Williams’ students. The students rehearsed their story, “The Lion and the Mouse.” It took a while to figure out a beat for the story chorus, but once they did, it was great. Unfortunately, we ran out of time and were unable to rehearse the story in its entirety. Fortunately, I have another visit with their class scheduled for next week.

1-28-10 Ms. Williams' 4th grade storytellers rehears their part

After lunch, I visited Ms. Mauer’s first grade class for the second time. As soon as I walked in, they said, “Mr. Roach” in that “roachy” sounding voice. This time, I told the story of Sody Sallyraytus and they loved it. We culminated with creative movement and dance to jazz music. Talk about a good time!

1-28-10 Ms. Mauer's class dances with scarves

Then it was on to Ms. Till’s class. The class is very large and very chatty. Today, they were really into talking amongst themselves in little groups and it was a challenge to settle them down. There are some self-control issues and I had to send one of the girls outside in the hall to “check” her attitude. When we finally were able to work, the class did a good job coming up with a fun story chorus and beat for their rap. There are a lot of creative students in Ms. Till’s class; they just lack self-discipline. With a firm hand, I was able to guide them through the entire story. It still needs to be polished. Thank goodness we have another class visit before our performance. I did have some outstanding students in the class – storytellers who learned their parts by heart. There were 2 boys and a girl. I gave them a special treat: an autographed bookmark.

1-28-10 A student in Ms. Till's third grade tells his part of the story without his script

My final class of the day was Ms. Johnson’s third grade class. When I walked into the room, the students were in their seats with their scripts on their desks, ready to work. It was such a pleasure working with this group of students. The last time I went into their class, they were a little rambunctious. But this time, they were so different! They were a model class. Four of the boys told me that they worked together outside of class to create a dance for the story chorus. It was awesome and I am so excited about what this class is going to do! There is expressive storytelling, rapping, a beat, and a fully choreographed routine. While I guided the students, they really came up with all the ideas. It was a delight to end my day in Ms. Johnson’s class. To reward them for their good work, I gave them all Madame Poulet bookmarks. Thank you, Ms. Johnson’s class, for this happy grin I am wearing today! You did a phenomenal job!

1-28-10 The story chorus in Ms. Johson's 3rd grade class POPS!

I am off on Friday and Monday. I was supposed to be taking a trip to New York for a conference. Circumstances changed and I am not going. However, I am taking a professional development class on Saturday in New Orleans. I look forward to returning to Strehle. The students and staff of Strehle are so wonderful. I love working with this school!

1-28-10 Ms. Creecy's 4th graders take time for a group pajama picture

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

1-27-10 Showing Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach book to Ms. King's Kindergarten class

Friends:

It was my third Story Fest residency day at Strehle Elementary in Avondale, Louisiana. My day began in 5th grade with Ms. Walter’s students. I really enjoyed working with this group. They totally energized my day. They cooperated, communicated and collaborated to create a wonderful story theater. Their story was “The Ant and the Grasshopper” and they were so creative, coming up with a cool rap with a beat and a colorful twist of their scarves. Even the teachers were feeling the beat!

1-27-10 Ms. Walter's 5th graders create a story chorus with scarves for the story, The Ant and the Grasshopper. Storytellers are in the background.

My second class was Ms. Guidry’s third grade class. Ms. Guidry was out of class today and her students were not on their usual best behavior. It was a challenge settling them down. I even had to send one of the students to the office for poor behavior. Still, we managed to rehearse their story, “The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking.” Ironically, it was the class’ talking that was the issue!

1-27-10 Ms. Guidry's 3rd grade class creates a story chorus for The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking

Next, it was on to kindergarten and Ms. King’s class. They loved my telling of Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach. It was so much fun. They laughed so much. I even gave the class a preview of my new book, Mama’s Bayou.

1-27-10 Being Madame Poulet for Ms. King's Kindergarten class

After kindergarten, I saw Ms. Walker’s students in 5th grade. Again, the 5th graders rocked. They were so wonderful, creating the coolest raps and motions. There was such enthusiasm in the class. Even the most reserved students in the class participated and I was so pleased with the end result. I am sooo looking forward to seeing 5th grade perform!

1-27-10 Ms. Walker's 5th grade students pop like popcorn in Paul Bunyan and the Great Popcorn Blizzard

After lunch, I looked at the wrong scheduled and accidentally went to Ms. Vega’s room. When I discovered the mistake, I had to leave to go to Ms. Hervey’s first grade class. The class and Ms. Vega were so disappointed that I was leaving! It feels so good to be loved like that!

I went to Ms. Hervey’s class and the students remembered me from kindergarten. I told Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach and the class loved it. They danced, sang, and laughed like crazy. Then, we used scarves and dance “La Morenada.”

It was on to Ms. Creecy’s fourth grade class. When I arrived in class, two of the students were so excited to show me their art. I even received an original piece of art, a frog, from these two boys. How cool is that?!

1-27-10 4th grade students in Ms. Creecy's class create beautiful art!

Then it was time to rehearse our story theater. This class did a phenomenal job creating their story chorus for “The Tortoise and the Hare.” Their chorus was so catchy that I found myself singing it the rest of the day! Great work, Ms. Creecy’s class. I am very pleased with your teamwork!

1-27-10 Ms. Creecy's 4th grade class!

Tonight, I received an email from students in Ms. Creecy’s class. They were so sweet:

“Hi, Ms. Dianne. I am in Ms. Creecy’s class, I just wanted to tell you thank you for doing those fun things you did with us. The tortoise and the hare beat sounded really good. I can’t wait to perform it! When you read this, I hope you remember me when you come back to Catherine Strehle and Ms. Creecy’s class. Warmly, Ashlyn L.”

“Hello. I am Bailee from Ms. Creecy’s class. I know you are a good storyteller. I so love your books.”

Thank you, Ashlyn and Bailee for your wonderful emails. You touched my heart and I appreciate your taking the time to send me a note. You and your classmates did a fabulous job and I am also excited about seeing your class perform “The Tortoise and the Hare.”

I ended my day in another fourth grade class, Ms. Landry’s class. They also did a great job with their story. They are performing “The Little Red Hen” and it is so cute! I love their chorus as well. They added dance moves and really rocked the chorus. Despite the fact that I had to send two students to the office, the class did some great work together. I look forward to seeing the presentation of these stories!

1-27-10 Ms. Landry's 4th graders rehearse their story chorus for The Little Red Hen

Strehle has the best teachers. I love them all! Here is Ms. Creecy and Ms. Wolf, such beauties! I love coming to Strehle. There is such a “family” atmosphere amongst the teachers, staff, and students. I love the teachers’ and staff’s attitude. They have opened their arms and welcomed me into the Strehle family. I always leave the school with a giant smile on my face.

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

1-26-10 Telling Madame Poulet & Monsieur Roach in Ms. Short's 1st grade class

Friends:

Today was my second day at Strehle Elementary in Avondale, Louisiana. My day began in first grade with Ms. Short’s class. Many of the students remembered me from last year and were very excited to see me. They loved hearing the story of Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach and then doing scarf activities. They were such a wonderful group of students to work with.

My second class was Ms. Giroir’s PK class. I told the story of Madame Poulet and they loved the song in the story. Ms. Giroir told me that they sang it all day and one of the boys even pretended to be Madame Poulet, the chicken in the story. They also had fun dancing with scarves to world music.

1-26-10 Ms. Giroir and her PK class dance with scarves

After PK, I went to Ms. Badeaux’s second grade class. The students were excited to see me and loved hearing Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach. It was so cute when one of the little girls laughed uncontrollably because I “sneezed” in her hair. They enjoyed dancing “La Morenada,” the dance of the butterfly. Ms. Badeaux told me that the class was learning Spanish. Through the song, they added two new words to their Spanish vocabulary (“manos” meaning “hands” and “pie” meaning “feet”).

Following second grade, I went into PK special ed. I don’t have pictures because my hands were full, literally. One of the students, Jevon, an autistic child became attached to me and wouldn’t leave my lap. Pat Runge said that it was so unusual for Jevon to respond to a “stranger” like that and that I generated a response from him they had not seen all year. Normally agitated and unresponsive, Jevon was calm and relaxed the entire time I was in the room. Another student, Shae Lynn, also gravitated to me and claimed my other arm, hanging by my side for nearly the whole time. I told “Mr. Wiggle and Mr. Waggle,” sang my song, “ABC Rock,” and sang “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.” The teachers didn’t want me to leave.

After lunch, I headed to Ms. Avist’s first grade class. I showed them my books and gave them a sneak peek of Mama’s Bayou on the Elmo. Afterward, I told Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach and they loved it. We finished with creative movement to world music. Even Ms. Avist danced! It was so much fun and a great workout too!

1-26-10 Ms. Avist's 1st grade class moves!

Next, I had Ms. Till’s fourth grade class. After discussing the “Storytelling Tool Kit” (imagination, body, face and voice) and the “Three Cs” of story theater (cooperation, communication, and collaboration), we moved into our story theater exercises. They loved the role-playing activities. Their class was assigned the story, “The Country Mouse and The City Mouse.” We didn’t have enough time to create the story chorus but will work on that during my next visit.

1-26-10 Students in Ms. Till's 4th grade class portray a football field goal scene

My last class was Ms. Johnson’s third grade class. The students were very chatty and it was challenging to settle them down long enough to move to the next activity. They processed their thoughts out loud and became so excited about the activity. I was able to assign parts for their story, “The Frog and the Ox” but unable to work on the story chorus with them. At the last minute, one of the students created a beat and a rap for the story chorus. It was like magic – just perfect! I can’t wait to see it all put together when I return to their class.

1-26-10 Students in Ms. Johnson's 3rd grade class portray a mechanic fixing his car

It was a great day but I had to rush quickly out of school. I had a literacy night event at another school – Bissonet Plaza Elementary in Metairie. Tomorrow, I see another seven classes!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

Friends:

Today I began a 2 week residency at Strehle Elementary in Avondale, Louisiana. This is my third year at the school. I am doing my Story Fest residency, in which I work with the student doing drama exercises and culminating in story theater performances. The classes are each assigned a story, with parts for individual storytellers and a story chorus.

My first class was Ms. Walker’s 5th grade class. They were a great group to work with, and really participated in the exercises. I demonstrated the “Storyteller’s Tool Kit,” with the four tools they have readily available: 1) imagination, 2) body, 3) face and 4) voice. All my upper grades did individual, partner, and group role playing exercises. Ms. Walker’s class was assigned the story, “Paul Bunyan and the Great Popcorn Blizzard.” They were able to formulate some of the chorus with a rap and it came out great!

1-25-10 Ms. Walker's 5th graders portray a Mardi Gras parade with king on a float

Next, I went on to Ms. Guidry’s 3rd grade class. They were so respectful and excited to see me. Many of the students remembered me from years past and looked forward to the activity. They did such a great job with their drama activity. The class did a great job communicating and collaborating and came up with such a fun story chorus for their story, “The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking.” I can’t wait to see it all come together!

1-25-10 Ms. Guidry's 3rd graders portray a field goal, kicking a football through the goal posts

Ms. Walter’s 5th grade class was my next stop. Again, I had a great time with the students. They really enjoyed the activities. Using a beat created by a student, they came up with a fun rap for their story, “The Ant and the Grasshopper.”

1-25-10 Ms. Walter's 5th grade class playing a cowboy riding a horse (look at that midair jump!)

Ms. Williams’ 5th grade class was next. All the 5th grade teachers have “W” last names! There are a lot of very expressive students in this class. They were assigned the story, “The Lion and the Mouse.” The students worked well together and created a story chorus. It needs some work but I will see them again on Wednesday.

1-25-10 Ms. Williams' 5th graders role play a boy stealing an apple from a neighbor's tree

On my lunch break, I caught a candid of one of the 5th grade teachers, Ms. Walker. The faculty and staff showed their Saints spirit by sporting black and gold. The Saints won their playoff game last night against Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings so Saints fever runs high in the city! It is the first time the Saints will play in the Super Bowl.

1-25-10 5th grade teacher, Ms. Walker, has Saints spirit! Who Dat!

After lunch, I had my only lower elementary group of the day. I visited Ms. Mauer’s 1st grade class. I told the story of Madame Poulet & Monsieur Roach and then moved into creative movement with scarves. They danced to world music, exploring rhythms from Africa and South America. It was fun and very colorful!

1-25-10 Ms. Mauer's 1st graders dance with scarves to world music

One of the students in the class had a fleur de lis shaved into his hair. His parents must truly be Saints fans!

1-25-10 A true Saints fan with a fleur de lis carved into his hair!

Next, I moved on to Ms. Creecy 4th grade class. They had a ball doing the story theater exercises. The class is large so excitement was high. I had to settle them down a few times. We ran out of time and were unable to create a story chorus but we will do that next time I see them on Wednesday.

1-25-10 4th graders in Ms. Creecy's class become a woman walking her dog in Central Park

My last class of the day was Ms. Landry’s 4th grade class. The students remembered me from previous years and were so excited to see me. They were so well-behaved and I really enjoyed working with them. They really loved the story theater exercises. They were assinged “The Little Red Hen” and did a phenomenal job crreating their story chorus with a rap to a beat. It was so catchy, I found myself singing it all day! And I loved the way the students in the chorus really cooperated, communicated and collaborated. Those were the 3 “Cs” of story theater I taught them. What a great day!

1-25-10 Ms. Landry's 4th graders are mechanics fixing their cars

I ended my day with a photo op. New Orleans Saints Quarterback, Drew Brees, “stopped by” so I had to get a picture with him… Super Bowl bound, baby!

1-25-10 Dianne poses with New Orleans Saints Super Bowl quarterback, Drew Brees

I look forward to tomorrow at Strehle!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne