CHOOSING A STORY CHECKLIST

RULE #1: No Picture Books!

 

______ 1.        I like the story I chose.

______ 2.        The story suits the type of person I am.

______ 3.        I agree with the content.

______ 4.        There are only a few characters.

______ 5.        There is contrast among the characters in looks and personality.

______ 6.        The characters are interesting.

______ 7.        The story has meaning beyond providing entertainment.

______ 8.        The characters and action are believable within the framework of the story.

______ 9.        The story is tellable.

______ 10.      It is simple enough for an audience to follow easily.

______ 11.      It has enough action and suspense to maintain an audience's interest.

______ 12.      The opening of the story sets the scene, introduces major characters and gives the historical time of the story.

______ 13.      A story contains exposition and/or background necessary to its understanding.

______ 14.      The language and style are true to the story.

______ 15.      The story has sensory imagery that is easy to grasp.

______ 16.      The story does not have too much dialogue.

______ 17.      The story can be easily told in the allotted time.

______ 18.      A story does not have any difficult tongue twisters or word pronunciations - (unless they are part of the desired effect.)

______ 19.      The characters do not have similar names (examples: Phil, Bill, Jill, Will.)

______ 20.      A story has the potential to change listeners in a positive way.