Discussing story elements is a great way to encourage discussion and build new vocabulary in Pre-K. Using picture symbols makes it easier for young children to understand how stories work and develop early comprehension skills. The visual cues help them connect ideas when talking about books.
Story Symbols for Story Elements
The printable resource includes Story Symbols to represent these story elements:
- Star = Main Character, “Who is the star of the story?”
- Globe = Setting, “Where does the story happen?”
- Magnifying Glass = Problem, “What is the problem in the story?”
- Tool Box = Solution, “How did they fix the problem?”
Introducing Story Elements in a Developmentally Appropriate Way
When first introducing story elements, it’s helpful to start simple and build on prior knowledge over time.
- In August, we began with just one symbol: the star for the main character.
- After the children were comfortable with that, we added the globe to discuss the setting.
- As the year progressed, we introduced more elements: the magnifying glass for the problem and the toolbox for the solution.
Each time we introduce a new symbol, I make sure to say both the name of the picture (e.g., “globe”) and its meaning(“The globe is the setting, the place where the story happens”). That way, the children learn the “fancier” terminology as we do this through the year.
How to Use the Story Symbols
To make a story ring, just laminate the story symbols, hole punch the corners, and hook them onto a metal binder ring. You can use the story ring to have the children discuss the story as you flip through the cards. This could also be used as a transition activity.
The cards can also be attached to chart paper and you can either write the answers below each story element picture, or you can attach pictures that represent the character, setting, etc.
Download the Story Elements Printable
Just click here for these FREE printable cards:
By using these symbols and activities in daily reading story time, young learners can strengthen their storytelling skills, expand their vocabulary, and build a foundation for comprehension to help them as they grow into independent readers.
