QUESTION 10

BY:NASYAHIDA & SYAQIL

Discuss how props are used to enhance storytelling. Suggest how teachers can

select and make useful props for storytelling.

How props are used to enhance ST• They can make a point concrete. Eg: the props

will make the subject more concrete than simply pictured in words.

• They can have an emotional impact. Eg: storyteller can move the props according to the emotion he/she wants to convey in the story.

• They can be effective metaphors. Eg: props as a metaphore to represent characters, objects or the theme of the story.

• They focus the audience’s attention and interest. Eg: When a storyteller use props, the rhythm of the storytelling is changed and the audience will more interested to watch and to listen the story.

• They are memorable. Eg: the audience will easily memorise the characters and understand the story easily with the aid of props.

Selection of props – percussion instruments

• Make use of percussion instruments to set a beat — either in the background or for special emphasis of sound effect.

• Use a variety of drums for the stories with repetitive phrases. The beat of a drum can intensify the mood

• Clap or click fingers in unison for “call and response” using an instrument or having everyone sing along with an instrument.

Selection of props – puppets• Finger puppet, puppet stick, etc

Reasons use puppets: • They give color, texture and dimension to story characters and

actions.• A puppet can make the story come alive for children the same way

pictures in books do, and provide visual clues to the story’s meaning while presenting the tale in a new way.

• Puppets can add dialogue to a story and provide opportunities for audience interaction, creating a multi-dimensional experience.

• Puppets can be a bridge for a storyteller to connect with hard-to-reach audiences.

Selection of props – big picture book

• less words, or no words at all in the book• big, colourful and interesting

illustration.• manageable, easy to hold.

How to make props useful for ST

• Make use of props to introduce yourself as the storyteller. – adopt a storytelling symbol that identifies with you in particular

or carry a special banner or sign announcing who you are. You can also wear the character clothes, scarves, or even paint your face to resemble the characters in the story.

• Make use of props to bring understanding of the story– the props represent the characters, object, story background

and the sound effect that aid to understand the story

• Resources:

• http://www.creativekeys.net/storytellingpower/article1008.html

• http://mannerofspeaking.org/2011/09/25/how-do-props-help-a-presentation/