As mentioned earlier, good stories have the following components:

1. A beginning that immediately captures one's interest.
2. Colorful characters, but not too many characters.
3. A plot that is not too complicated.
4. A situation that appeals to oneีs emotions; for instance, it might be funny, scary, exciting or sad.
5. A strong, satisfying ending.

Whether students compose their own stories or choose one from print or tradition, you can measure their accomplishments by using the following rubric


STRUCTURE

1. The story has a clear and interesting beginning.
2. The plot sequence is not too complicated; it is easy to follow and understand.
3. The story has a satisfying conclusion that offers a sense of completion.

WORD CHOICE

1. The language choice is descriptive, allowing the listener to visualize characters, setting, and events.
2. The word choice is appropriate to the tale.
3. If dialogue is used, it can be distinguished from the voice of the narrator.
4. If dialect is used, it is understandable and distinct.

ARTICULATION & PACE

1. The teller varies pitch, tone, and speed to create different characters and pace.
2. The teller can be clearly heard by the audience.
3. The voice is expressive and non-monotonous.

GESTURES, BODY LANGUAGE & FACIAL EXPRESSION

1. The teller uses appropriate gestures and body language to portray characters and events.
2. The teller uses facial expression to create moods and characters.
3. The teller maintains eye contact with the audience.
4. The teller's body postures communicate confidence and comfort with the storytelling.

AUDIENCE

1. The audience listens attentively to the storyteller.
2. The audience shows support and appreciation to the teller by responding appropriately and by applauding.
3. The audience demonstrates attention to the storyteller by asking appropriate questions and positive comments about the tale told.

	Beginner	Novice	Intermediate	Advanced
Structure
Word Choice
Articulation & Pace
Gestures, Body Language & Facial Expression
Audience

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