Activity 3 - Telling the story of a place

Students visit a natural area, observe, and discuss their surroundings. In groups, they create a story using photos or films inspired by the environment, applying creative elements like color and sound. Back in class, they present and discuss their work, exploring the impact of their storytelling choices.

Required resources

• Filming device

• Local natural area

Step by step guide

Step 1: Exploration of a local natural area

Take students to a nearby river, creek, or other natural area, e.g. gardens on the school grounds. Begin with a few minutes of quiet contemplation and observation of the surrounding environment. 

Start a class discussion about what they observe around them, such as: 

• What plants and animals are here? Are any plants flowering or fruiting? What animals might come to eat it? 

• What time of year is it, what is the weather like, has it rained recently? 

• Is there water here? How much? What does the water look like, does it look healthy? What does it smell like? 

• Is there rubbish? Are there other problems you can see?    This should begin a conversation about the health of the place, and what stories they can tell about their place.

Step 2: Create a story using photos or film of the local area

In groups of 3 or 4, students can discuss ideas to come up with a story about this place. Students will film or take photographs. The story might only take shape once filming begins. Students can take inspiration from their mind map or the film “The Swamp”. Students will use their creativity to build a narrative and include elements previously discussed – theatrical narration, colour, sound, etc. Note: If cameras are not available, a series of drawings can be produced, e.g. in a cartoon or storyboard style. 

Step 3: Presentation and discussion of story

Back in the classroom, student groups can show their film or give a short presentation of their photographs or drawings.

Discuss the following: 

• How did students use colour, sound, humour to deliver their message? 

• Were there any surprises or new perspectives? 

• Were messages clear, like a story, or were they thought-provoking, with many possible interpretations? 

Optional: Film could be edited if there is access to basic film editing software.