We’ve begun our Puppet Show project with your children and thought we’d share our plan with you so we’re all on the same page.
Here is our timeline:
(flexible due dates)
April 7th: We will begin by choosing a storybook as a template for our puppet show. Enjoy reading the story and imagine yourself as one of the characters, preferably the main character.
April 9th: Write down the setting. Where does the story begin? When did this happen? Imagine yourself in that location. This will prepare you for your backdrop.
April 14th: Choose 2 to 4 main characters in the story. You will make your puppets for these characters. What personalities or qualities do they have? Are they kind? Are they mean? Are they funny? Are they scary? Think of adjectives that describe these characters.
April 15th: What is the beginning of the story? It usually states the setting and the problem. What is the middle of the story. This usually tells you what the main character does to solve the problem. What is the end of the story. In other words, how did the main character solve the problem. Write them down. Take two days to do this, if you need to.
April 16th: Start writing the script. Make it very simple, using important dialogue to tell the story to an audience. Limit your characters (2 to 4). You can modify the story. Take a day or two to do this.
April 20th: Make your puppets. Choose one kind of material, such as wooden spoons, old socks, kitchen gadgets, finger puppets (gloves), felt gingerbread man-shaped puppets, etc. Be creative! It’s your call. Let your imagination soar. Take a few days to do this.
April 23rd: Create a backdrop. This is optional. You may use a simple poster board. Or you may make a diorama/theatre. Make sure your puppets can fit in it.
April 27th – May 1st: PRESENT YOUR PUPPET SHOW! Remember, you will have a small audience. Don’t worry, whatever you do, we will love it!