By exploring different ways to speak in varied environments, children develop projection, confidence and awareness of tone and volume.
1. Set the scene
Ask the children to sit down, close their eyes, and think of their favourite toy. Invite a few to share what their toy is and explain that it's show-and-tell day at school.
2. Begin the search
Ask the children to run to their bags to find their toy. Suddenly announce, "Oh no! It's gone! Where is your toy?" Explain that they will need to search the school to find it.
3. Visit different locations
Point to one side of the room and say, "Maybe the nursery children have it." Children march there and whisper one at a time: "Have you seen my toy [insert toy]?"
Then point to another area, like the playground, and explain that it is very noisy, so they must shout to be heard. Children take turns shouting their lines.
4. Project on stage
Explain that at assembly, children need to speak clearly and confidently, projecting their voice. Model a projected voice and invite each child to stand on the "stage" and say their line clearly to the group.
5. Celebrate the discovery
Continue until one child puts their hand up to say they have found the toy. Celebrate the success with the group.
This imaginative journey helps children explore different vocal levels in a meaningful context for them. By moving from whispering to shouting and finally to clear projection, children learn how to adjust their voices appropriately for different spaces and audiences.
Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.
