David Novak introduces the use of string figures in oral cultures including African, Native American, Polynesian, Asian, and European. Students participate in developing a story with shoestrings, requiring teamwork, experimentation, refining and presenting. The residency culminates in a public presentation of student work. CURRICULUM STANDARDS: 3rd, 4th, & 5th Grade Information Skills competency 1.01 - Participate in read-aloud, storytelling, book talking, and silent and voluntary reading experiences. Information Skills competency 5.01 - Respond to reading, listening, viewing experiences orally, artistically, dramatically, through various formats. 6th, 7th & 8th Grade Speaking & Listening Skills competency: 1. Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly. 6. Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when appropriate.

---

Artist Background

When the truth reveals itself, we call it A Telling Experience. David Novak tells stories to enhance learning, engage emotion, and find common ground. He is a performing and teaching artist with the Lincoln Center Institute, L.A. Music Center, festivals and institutes across the nation and abroad. A Master Storyteller for The Disney Institute in 1995-96, he was awarded the National Storytelling Network Circle of Excellence in 2002, and is often featured at the National Storytelling Festival. Recently, he was Keynote Speaker and Master Teacher for Sydney International Storytelling Conference in Australia. A published author and recording artist, with an MFA from UC San Diego, David lives in Asheville.

---

Search Criteria

• Discipline: Storytelling
• Grade Level: Elementary, Middle
• Program Type: Workshop/Residency
• Cultural Context: African, Asian, Australian, European, Native American, Pacific Islander
• Accepts bookings in Johnston County