Stories are as old as language itself. Long before textbooks and grammar drills existed, humans used stories to teach, connect, and remember. In today’s EFL classrooms, storytelling is far more than a simple warm-up activity: it is a dynamic, learner-centered tool that naturally integrates all four language skills while nurturing imagination and empathy.
I am absolutely thrilled to share that my latest article, “Once Upon a Classroom: Practical Storytelling Ideas for EFL Teachers,” has been published in the Autumn/Winter 2025–2026 edition of The APPI eJournal (Year 8, No. 28)!
In this piece, I dive into the heart of what we love at DramActivate: how to build student confidence and communication through the power of narrative. I break down actionable strategies you can bring into your classroom tomorrow, including:
- Before the Story: Creative ways to spark curiosity and pre-teach language using movement (TPR).
- During the Story: How to bring tales to life using your voice, body, and drama tools like puppets or masks.
- After the Story: Deepening language retention through role-play, sequencing, and creative writing.
A huge thank you to the APPI Editorial Committee, Judite Fiúza, Maria Isabel Silva, and Neil Mason, for this wonderful honour.
The entire issue is packed with incredible insights from dedicated educators covering everything from AI policies to visual literacy. You can flip straight to page 24 to read my article, but I highly recommend exploring the whole edition!
👉 [Read the full Autumn/Winter Edition of The APPI eJournal here]
Want to bring more storytelling and embodied drama into your own EFL classrooms? Explore the rest of the DramActivate blog for more lesson ideas, or connect with me on Instagram and Facebook to share your favourite storytelling tips!