First graders bring fairy tales to life

by Marty Kennedy, first grade teacher & Susan Casey, Lower School administrative assistant

Young writers become thespians in this unit designed to teach problem-solving and public speaking skills while fostering creativity.
“For the things we have to learn before we can do them, we learn by doing them.” –Aristotle, from the Nicomachean Ethics

The fairy tale productions crafted, directed and produced by Marty Kennedy have been on stage for almost 20 years in Lower School. The opportunity to perform provides first-grade students with diverse, experience-based learning opportunities.

“A primary goal has always been to help students learn to read, but there is so much more learning that takes place,” conveys Kennedy.

Students read and learn their lines requiring time, practice, and preparation. Working together cooperatively with a spirit of “we” rather than “me” fosters constructive conversations and problem-solving. The young actors learn to manage excitement which fosters self-control, enhance their sense of responsibility by following directions, and gain confidence with public speaking.

Creativity flows endlessly as students discuss and select their roles with Kennedy.

“I give them the opportunity to consider what type of character they want to portray,” states Kennedy. “Some students want to be funny, some want to be the mischievous character, and some want to be a heroine. Giving them choice encourages critical thinking and decision making.”

Six plays are performed allowing all 18 class members a starring role. This year's production includes: "Paper Bag Princess," "The True Story of the Three Little Pigs," "Handful and Dreadful," "The Three Blairs, " "Sport," and "The Diva's New Wig."

Students’ utilize their visual artistic talents to create stage scenery. Once again the opportunity presents for students to practice offering constructive thoughts and ideas rather than stating demands or stipulations as they craft and work together to build their scenery.

Fairytale plays offer students the opportunity to learn thru experience, creativity, and self-expression culminating in a wonderful production for the Lower School community. Bravo.
Back

More USN News

List of 3 news stories.

Archive

Contact

Edgehill Campus
2000 Edgehill Ave.
Nashville, TN 37212

Phone:  615-321-8000
Fax:       615-321-0889 
Email:    info@usn.org

River Campus
1200 County Hospital Road
Nashville, TN 37218

Resources

USN Mission: 
University School of Nashville models the best educational practices. In an environment that represents the cultural and ethnic composition of Metropolitan Nashville, USN fosters each student’s intellectual, artistic, and athletic potential, valuing and inspiring integrity, creative expression, a love of learning, and the pursuit of excellence.