Storytelling

Unit 1: The goal of this unit is to explore why humans tell stories, different modes of storytelling, and to ultimately practice telling stories. The unit will culminate in an oral storytelling project in which you tell a story of your choosing.

HOMEWORK: As you read, craft 3 discussion questions for tomorrow's class.

How to Tell a Great Story.pdf

Andrew Stanton: The clues to a great story

The clues to a great storyFilmmaker Andrew Stanton ("Toy Story," "WALL-E") shares what he knows about storytelling -- starting at the end and working back to the beginning. Contains graphic language ... (Note: this talk is not available for download.)

Discussion Questions:

What is Stanton's thesis?
Do you agree with him? Why? Why not?
What was the most memorable part of his speech? Why?

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie:

The danger of a single story

The danger of a single storyOur lives, our cultures, are composed of many overlapping stories. Novelist Chimamanda Adichie tells the story of how she found her authentic cultural voice -- and warns that if we hear only a single story about another person or country, we risk a critical misunderstanding.

Discussion Questions:

What is Adichie's thesis?
Do you agree with her? Why? Why not?
What was the most memorable part of her speech?

HOMEWORK: Choose at least 1 of the 5 radio spots. Be prepared to discuss in class tomorrow.

The Art of Storytelling, The Essay - Episode guide - BBC Radio 3Essays on the art of storytelling, read in front of an audience at the 2016 Hay festival