PLACES Academy

Using Storytelling in the Classroom
Stunner – full length
Stunner – no ending

SDG 3 + 4 – age groups 8-10 and 11-14

#non-violent conflict resolution #peer-to-peer learning #mental health #capacity for change
14-year-old Michael is called ‘Stunner’ because he ‘stuns’ his classmates. He hits them very hard on their shoulders. In a way, it has become part of his role in the class. And he plays it well. But one day, by mistake, he has to be a substitute in the 2nd grade, and there is a conflict between 2 younger boys in the classroom. What to do? Should he stun them?
He shouts, but the boys continue to fight. They offer opposing explanations for the conflict, and he makes them listen to and repeat what the other is saying. This helps them understand each other, and soon, calm is restored, allowing him to start teaching.
When the teacher arrives, everyone tells her how well the boy managed as a substitute.
During recess, younger students ask the boy for help with their arguments and conflicts. Both the boy himself and his classmates are surprised, but he enjoys his new role. He even makes a new friend.
If you want to explore this story further with your pupils, we think that for example the PLACES Playful activity card “Stories into movement” and Wild Card “Be the Teacher” work particularly well.