What children will learn
- Read aloud fluently with expression and pace
- Understand how a script is set out with roles and stage directions
- Work as a team and listen for cues
You'll need
- A favourite picture book, fable or short story
- Paper and pens
- Highlighters (optional)
- A few simple props from around the house (optional)
How to do it
- Choose a short story with three to five characters, or write your own. You could start with: NARRATOR: 'Wilma the wombat had always wanted to fly.' WILMA (sighing): 'Magpie makes it look so easy!' MAGPIE (proudly): 'It's all in the flapping.'
- Write the script: put each character's name before their lines, add a narrator to describe the action, and put feelings in brackets — (whispering), (grumpy), (excited).
- Hand out roles and highlight each person's lines. Readers can play more than one part by changing their voice.
- Do a read-through sitting down. Practise expression: How would a nervous character sound? A sleepy one?
- Perform it! Stand in a row and step forward for your lines. Record it on a phone if everyone agrees, then watch it back together.
Make it easier
Use a familiar story like 'The Three Little Pigs' and let younger children repeat a simple line, such as 'Not by the hair on my chinny-chin-chin!'
Make it harder
Write an original script with a twist ending, or rewrite a well-known story from the villain's point of view.
Parent tip: Take a small role yourself and ham it up. When adults are willing to sound silly, shy readers relax and read with far more expression.
Fantastic work! Every little step helps you grow.