Storytelling - Narrative Skills for ESL Learners

Storytelling is a universal form of sharing experiences, emotions, and ideas. Mastering the art in a new language can not only enhance your language skills but also deepen connections with others. This lesson plan is designed for upper-intermediate B2 English learners to explore the structure, language, and techniques of storytelling. Through engaging activities, students will craft their stories, refining their narrative skills and language use.

Summary

This lesson plan on storytelling in English aims to equip upper-intermediate ESL learners with the ability to craft compelling stories. Students will delve into the elements of storytelling, including plot development, character creation, and the use of descriptive language. By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to articulate their stories confidently, utilizing enhanced vocabulary and narrative techniques.

Lesson Focus

Students will gain insights into effective storytelling in English, focusing on creative writing and oral expression. By engaging in this lesson, learners will enhance their ability to construct engaging narratives, improve their deployment of descriptive language, and be able to share their stories eloquently, thus fostering confidence in their English-speaking abilities.

Lesson Content

Activity 1: The Storytelling Brainstorm

Approximate Time Needed: 20 minutes

Objective: To generate ideas and plot elements for individual stories.

Materials: Sticky notes, pens, and a large piece of paper for each student. Materials are easily available in most classrooms or can be purchased from a local stationery store.

Instructions:

Each student writes down five elements or ideas related to their story on sticky notes (e.g., characters, settings, emotions).
Students categorize and arrange their notes on the large paper to outline their story's structure.
The class shares some of their ideas and receives initial feedback.

Activity 2: Crafting Descriptions

Approximate Time Needed: 30 minutes

Objective: To improve descriptive language usage and enhance setting and character descriptions in stories.

Materials: Example texts with descriptive passages (can be found in various online resources), paper and pens.

Instructions:

Read and discuss the example texts focusing on descriptive elements.
Students choose one aspect of their story and write a descriptive paragraph.
Peer review session where students swap their writing and give constructive feedback.

Activity 3: Storytelling Circle

Approximate Time Needed: 40 minutes

Objective: To practice oral storytelling and receive feedback on narrative skills and language use.

Materials: A comfortable classroom setup for a storytelling circle. No special materials required.

Instructions:

Students prepare short stories or excerpts based on their work from previous activities.
In a circle, each student takes turns to tell their story or excerpt orally.
After each story, the class discusses what they enjoyed and offers suggestions for improvement.

Wrap Up

This storytelling lesson plan for ESL learners provides a comprehensive approach to mastering narrative skills and language use in English. Activities are designed to assist students in generating ideas, crafting descriptive passages, and confidently expressing their stories. By focusing on both creative writing and oral expression, learners can significantly enhance their English proficiency.

Integrating technology, such as ALULA, an AI-powered ESL app, into language learning further supports this development. With features like conversation exercises, speaking practices on specific topics, and grammar lessons, ALULA complements classroom activities by providing additional practice in a supportive environment. This enables students to reinforce what they have learned in class and facilitates teachers by ensuring students are well-prepared and focused on applying their knowledge in practical, engaging ways.