Preschool Lesson Plans

Alphabet Block Lesson Plans

Literature Lesson Plans

Alphabet Block Storytelling

​Activity:  ​

Alphabet Block Storytelling

Age Group:

Preschool

Objectives:

Children will:

• Foster creativity, language skills, and early literacy.

​CDA Competency Standard:

​II.6.1a

• Materials promote early literacy.

a) Literacy / storytelling / bookmaking materials are provided

Materials:

• Alphabet blocks
• Story props (e.g., small toys, figurines)

Procedure:

1. Create a Story: Use the alphabet blocks to spell out key words or names of characters in a story.
2. Act Out the Story: Encourage the children to use the story props to act out the story they created with the blocks.
3. Share: Have each child or group share their story with the class.

Assessment:

• Observe and record if prompts were used in the child's story.
• Note the creativity used, ie... settings, plot, fantastical features or creatures...

​Online Early Childhood Education
​Click on the course icon for enrollment information.

Introducing Story Structure with Fairy Tales

Fairy tales are an excellent resource for teaching young children about story structure, as they typically follow a predictable and straightforward pattern. These stories have a clear beginning, middle, and end, with simple plot lines that are easy for children to follow. By engaging with fairy tales, children can start to understand how organized stories are constructed, which is a crucial skill for their future writing endeavors.
​
​While preschool-aged children might not fully grasp the intricacies of story structure, it is important to introduce the concept early on. They will soon need these foundational skills as they progress in their education. One effective way to teach story structure is by dissecting a familiar fairy tale that the children have read multiple times. This familiarity allows them to focus on understanding the structure without being overwhelmed by new information.

Additional Story Elements to Introduce

•  Characters: Who is in the story? For example, the three pigs and the big bad wolf.
•  Setting: Where does the story take place? For example, the pigs' houses in the forest.
•  Problem: What went wrong? For example, the wolf threatening to blow down the pigs' houses.
•  Solution: How are things fixed? For example, the pigs build a strong house of bricks and outsmart the wolf.
•  Author: Who wrote the story? Discuss the concept of an author.
•  Illustrator: Who drew the pictures? Explain the role of an illustrator.

​
By incorporating these elements into your lessons, you can provide a more comprehensive understanding of storytelling. Children can learn to identify and discuss these components, enhancing their comprehension and appreciation of stories.