Make a radio program with your class
Kids in Guinea on the radio
It's easier than you think to create a program with your kids. All you need is a computer/mic system (to record on your computer) or tape recorder or mini disc recorder, a mic, and a plan. Here are some of the things you can do, depending on the age level of the kids
Younger kids
You can interview them, radio style.
Have them interview each other ( you supervise)
Have a kid retell an old favorite such as Red Riding Hood
Have them sing
Let them just talk. You can see what Chloe did on the World Kids News
Primary grades
Using a script based on a well known favorite, such as the Three Billy Goats Gruff, record a radio play. Assign roles- kids without parts can do sound effects. Practice, and then record.
Have them interview people around school. Encourage them to write out questions beforehand.
Have them interview each other.
Record group singing or playing the recorder.
Have them compose a song and then record it.
Intermediate grades
Find a short story or something from a reader and then adapt it to a radio play. Remember, what is not seen must be heard- if someone walks into a room, they must in some way be greeted or announce themselves. As above, assign the parts- the kids without parts can do sound effects.
Interview newsmakers in the community, school board members, etc.As above, have the questions written beforehand.
Inteview grandma or grandpa about the "olden days"
Tell a mystery, fractured fairy tale or tall tale. Sound effects are also effective here.
Older kids and teens
The sky's the limit- mini documentaries, radio drama, fake commercials, singing original songs, interviews, dialogues, commentaries.
You can hear what kids in middle and high school did on Penelope's Radio
Resources for Radio
(If you can't webcast, send it to us and we'll put it on Penelope's Radio)
sound effects to use in your productions
Check out what kids are doing worldwide on the radio
