What Stories Live Inside These Materials?

Materials:

• Loose parts (pinecones, rocks, shells, gems/“diamonds”)

• Baskets, trays, or small bowls

• Neutral cloth or mat

• Paper and crayons/markers (optional)

Instructions:

• Arrange the loose materials on a table or rug as an invitation to explore.

• Allow students time to freely touch, observe, and choose materials.

• Encourage children to explore, combine, and create stories using the materials.

• Listen, observe, and document children’s thinking and storytelling.

Powerful InterACTions - PK3:

• What is this material?

• What does it feel like?

• Where can you put it?

• How can you use it?

• Why did you choose this one?

Powerful InterACTions - PK4:

• What story do you think lives inside this material?

• Where can you place this material in your story?

• Who is part of your story?

• Why does this material belong in your story?

• Why did you choose to use it this way?