Oral storytelling practice passages for middle school ELA.

📚 Topic Summary

Oral storytelling is the art of sharing stories aloud. In ELA, it's not just about telling a tale, but about using your voice, expressions, and body language to captivate your audience. Think of it as bringing a written story to life! Practice passages help you develop these crucial skills, making your stories engaging and memorable.

🗣️ Part A: Vocabulary

Match the following terms with their definitions:

1. Term: Pacing
2. Term: Tone
3. Term: Articulation
4. Term: Emphasis
5. Term: Improvisation

1. Definition: The expression of your voice, showing emotion.
2. Definition: Creating or performing spontaneously without preparation.
3. Definition: The relative speed or rhythm of your speech.
4. Definition: The clarity and distinctness of speech.
5. Definition: Special importance or significance.

(Match the numbers to the letters. For example: 1-A)

📝 Part B: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the paragraph below using the following words: engage, rhythm, gestures, audience, narrative.

Oral storytelling is more than just reciting a __________. It's about connecting with your __________ and making them feel a part of the story. Use __________, vocal variety, and a good __________ to __________ your listeners.

🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking

Imagine you are telling a story about a time you overcame a challenge. What vocal techniques (tone, pacing, emphasis) and body language (gestures, facial expressions) would you use to make your story more impactful, and why?