AROUND CAMPUS
Storytelling - Best Practices in Boys ’ Learning
Their time had arrived . As the lights dimmed in our Otto-Bernstein Theatre , the astrophysicists , a mix of jitters and excitement , awaited their opportunity to share insights and stories about the workings of the universe . Which planets might support life ? Is there water on Mars ? What are Dwarf Planets ?
“ Let ’ s take a look at our closest neighbor , Venus ,” invited one presenter , before revealing that the planet - while ideal in proximity - has surface temperatures of 900 degrees F : “ Imagine - standing on the surface would be like being burned alive !”
Later that same day , in our Graham lunchroom , early 20th century immigrants of all ages from Italy , China , Ireland , Russia , among other countries , waited , with hope and determination , their turn to be interviewed for admittance to America . It wasn ’ t going to be easy . They would be asked pointed , potentially life-altering questions by various processors . “ What ’ s that cough ? It doesn ’ t sound good ,” barked a health processor .
“ Let me see you walk a straight line forward and backward .” “ So , you are a skilled manual laborer ? That ’ s good ,” remarked a jobs processor .
The astrophysicists and immigrants were roles inhabited by our sixth and third graders for recent culminating storytelling activities in astronomy and American history units of study .
The two scenarios above are examples of how boys learn best . Research shows that when certain elements are employed in teaching boys , they spark boys ’ interest , sustain their concentration , and result in superior performance , deepening learning . Included among these factors are role play and performance / storytelling , creating products , teamwork and competition , and motor activity , all components our teachers employed in the Digital Universe unit in sixth grade science and the Immigration unit in third grade American History . The result ? Highly enthusiastic boys , eager to share their knowledge through storytelling .
Ellis Island
Third graders time traveled to the late 19th / early 20th century at Ellis Island . The immigration unit , conducted in part through our partnership with the N-Y Historical Society , included a Mock Ellis Island activity as well as a full grade visit to the historic processing center .
44 • Saint David ’ s Magazine