Throughout my childhood I enjoyed storytelling. I remember in grade one I was so excited to compete in a storytelling competition at my school. I chose one of my favourite stories to tell, “I Miss Franklin P. Shuckles” by Ulana Snihura (1998).
I loved the process of telling a story. I loved projecting my voice. I loved feeling like I was making a small difference in the world by telling a story. I was chosen from my classroom to go to the next level for the primary division and perform in the gym. I was a grade 1 student competing against grades 1, 2 and 3 students. I was so nervous while I was waiting to tell my story. Then one of the teachers said, “Alexandra Boese in grade 1” and it was my turn to present! I quickly walked up on stage and all of my nerves disappeared. I didn't think about the people watching, I just thought about the story. Then I remember being in my classroom and hearing on the announcements, "Congratulations to Alexandra Boese for placing first in the primary storytelling competition." I was so excited; this gave me positive reinforcement to continue sharing my love of storytelling.
Telling this story also taught me the importance of selecting a story. “I Miss Franklin P. Shuckles” (Snihura, 1998) is a story about friendship and inclusion. As a future teacher I want to provide my students with a variety of meaningful reading materials. Learning how to read does not have to be an isolated task. Students can also learn important life lessons through reading. I hope to teach my students about kindness and acceptance by selecting appropriate resources that will also encourage critical thinking.
My love of telling stories has continued throughout my life. During university I have had a summer job as a children’s library program coordinator. In this position I planned and implemented literacy programs for children ranging in age from 15 months to 12 years of age. This opportunity enabled me to practise different literacy strategies for students of different ages. I have learned how to be engaging when reading a story. For example, I have learned how to use expression and change my tone of voice for specific characters. As a teacher I would like to be engaging while reading stories to my students. I would also like to provide students with opportunities to practice their storytelling skills.
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| Photo of me running a free story time in the park as library coordinator |
References
Snihura, U. (1998). I miss Franklin
P. Shuckles. Toronto, ON: Annick Press.
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