How does storytelling benefit literacy development in students?

Storytelling is a powerful tool in literacy development because it captures students' imaginations and enhances their narrative skills. When students engage with stories, they learn to understand the structure of narratives, including elements such as plot, characters, and setting. This exposure helps them develop their own storytelling abilities, which is crucial for both written and oral communication.

Moreover, storytelling encourages students to think critically about the stories they hear, fostering comprehension skills as they analyze characters' motivations and the events of the plot. It also develops their listening skills and expands their vocabulary within a contextual framework, allowing them to connect new words and ideas to their own experiences.

Engagement in storytelling promotes an emotional connection to the material, making it more likely that students will retain information. By encouraging creativity and self-expression, storytelling lays a strong foundation for students' overall literacy development.