PWR 91KA: Science Storytelling for Kids: Sharing Science with Younger Audiences

Science stories are important for kids today–and there are so many ways to creatively tell them, from picture books to podcasts to short-form videos. 

In this class, you’ll explore the intersection of science, creativity, and storytelling. You’ll choose a science topic you love, then creatively share researched science knowledge in narrative forms. Some genres of media we’ll explore are picture books, podcasts, videos for social media, and narrative stories. Guests will include award-winning podcaster Laura Joyce Davis of the Stanford Storytelling Project, and New York Times bestselling children’s book author Jennifer Chambliss Bertman, among others. At the end of class, we’ll share our stories with local kids. Explore science storytelling with creativity and joy!

Major Assignments

Choose Your Story (300-500 words)

In this short narrative you’ll declare the origins of your affection for your topic and describe what forms you look forward to creating.

Creative Project 1 (Podcast or Narrative Story)

Using the framing of a radio segment, podcast production, or written narrative with a specific audience (such as kids 7-10 years-old), you will write then edit a story to tell an accessible narrative. Particular focus should be on the rhetorical choices for science communication in this genre.

Creative Project 2 (Video or Picture Book)

Using the framing of either a Tik Tok or YouTube short or a picture book, you will create and edit an accessible video or book spread (500-700 word) to visually tell a story about your chosen topic for a specific audience **no art skills necessary!

Project Portfolio (300 words)

This reflective portfolio will include the best of your work and your reflection on the course’s impact on your professional, creative, and scientific identity.