Lesson Plan Title : Old Fashioned Radio Program

Age Range: Grade 3 through Grade 5 (Elementary Level)

Overview and Purpose : This lesson allows students to work together to create a program by only using sounds and their limitless imagination and creativity.

Objective: The student will be able to record a play with sound effects using an audio recorder.

Resources:

Audio recorder (tape player or computer program)

Props related to the play

Short radio play

Activities:

Have students work together to create and record a radio play. Talk about what would be challenging about putting on a radio play as opposed to a video one (i.e. it would be hard to know which character was talking on the radio or what the characters were doing since you cannot see them.) Brainstorm ways to overcome those difficulties.

Have the students decide how they will make the sounds for the play. They can experiment with recording different sounds until they find the ones they want.

Assign parts for the play and have the students practice. Non-readers or shy students can participate by helping with the recording and making the sounds.

After the students have practiced and are comfortable with their roles, record the play. Pop some popcorn, dim the lights, and let them listen to the recording. Send the recording home via email or post it on your school's website.

Closure:

Are your students having trouble getting into character? You can allow them to wear certain props (silly hats, funny mustache glasses, shawls or sweaters, or wigs) to help them "feel" their part. Some ideas for noise props are: a zipper, horn, bell, whistle, bazooka, squeaky toy, hammer and wood, etc. Also, do not forget about those students who may be gifted with noisemaking and silly vocal talents of their own!