![Podcasting Adventures Have Begun]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1727382481/oakhillday/aux7cmk4knyvscx9d2ab/IMG_6375.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1727382481/oakhillday/aux7cmk4knyvscx9d2ab/IMG_6375.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1727382481/oakhillday/aux7cmk4knyvscx9d2ab/IMG_6375.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1727382481/oakhillday/aux7cmk4knyvscx9d2ab/IMG_6375.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1727382481/oakhillday/aux7cmk4knyvscx9d2ab/IMG_6375.jpg","width":1290}])
I’m so excited to share that our 4th and 5th graders have started our podcasting unit and that we’re already diving into the creative process! Over the past few weeks, they’ve been learning from some of the best in the business—Pixar story artists! Through a series of short videos, we’ve explored what makes a great story come to life. We’ve learned how to create unique characters, build strong story structures, and develop plotlines that will captivate our listeners. Once they’ve written their stories, they’ll transform them into mini-podcasts, complete with sound effects and music. These podcasts will be shared with our Early Childhood and Lower School classrooms - I can’t wait as I know they will love them!
One of my favorite activities so far was when the Pixar story artists taught us how to create our story spine. As we did this at each of our tables, we took turns adding to a new story using the following prompts - a different person finished each prompt until we created a whole story.
The story spine prompts:
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Once upon a time…
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Every day…
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Until one day…
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Because of that…
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Because of that…
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Because of that…
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Because of that…
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Until finally…
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And ever since then…
I did that with all 4 of my classes and we were all in stitches every class. We had the best time and created the funniest stories. I promise if you try this in the car on the way to school or at the dinner table you’ll be in stitches too!
I love that this unit is more than just a fun way to explore storytelling - it’s also a way for my students to develop skills like creativity, collaboration, and perseverance. Just like everything we do in the Innovation Lab, storytelling isn’t just about getting it perfect the first time. They’ll be encouraged to rework their stories, experiment with new ideas, and give feedback to their peers as they craft their final versions. As they work together, they’ll be brainstorming, revising, and polishing their stories into something really special.
I’m looking forward to seeing (and hearing!) the magic that unfolds as they create their podcasts over the next month or so. Stay tuned!