Teaching Methodology

All of the teachers at Creative Science School integrate aspects of the Storyline Methodology in their classrooms.

WHAT IS THE STORYLINE METHOD?

Storyline is a structured approach to learning and teaching that was developed in Scotland. It builds on the key principle that learning, to be meaningful, has to be memorable, and that by using learner's enthusiasm for story-making, the classroom, the teacher's role, and learning can be transformed. Storyline is a strategy for developing the curriculum as an integrated whole. It provides an opportunity for active learning and reflection as essential parts of effective learning and teaching. At the same time it develops in learners a powerful sense of ownership of their learning.
—The Scottish Consultative Council on the Curriculum

SOME FEATURES OF THE STORYLINE METHOD

Constructivist

• Presents Constructivist theory in a practical form
• Uses collaborative storymaking: Teachers and students work together to devise main characters and often the direction the story develops
• Provides a meaningful structure for curriculum integration
• Builds up a relevant context for the application of basic skills including the use of technology
• Gives structures which provide freedom to develop sequentially to a satisfying climax or conclusion
• Encourages student to develop their own conceptual model first
• Includes people (characters) and their feelings to blend cognitive and affective learning

Child Centered

• Gets children involved imaginatively and creatively
• Highly motivating and meaningful—gives child a sense of purpose
• Developmentally appropriate
• Values and builds on prior knowledge and the collective intelligence of the group
• Allows students to be working at different skill levels
• Promotes cooperative learning, group work, and partnership
• Engages children in thinking, problem tackling, and decision-making
• Promotes ownership and responsibility for learning
• Values and presents student work attractively

Reflective

• Values process as well as content
• Provides a range of authentic assessment opportunities throughout the topic
• Promotes favorable attitudes to learning, enhancing confidence and self esteem
• Encourages students to engage in self assessment
• Provides children with a variety of audiences throughout the topic