Project Background
For this particular project we created a storytelling experience that was creative, interactive, and fun for kids based off of an any ebook. Our class got into groups and within those groups we worked together to pick out a book, come up with a storyboard, and brainstorm ideas about what elements (games, quizzes, VR, etc.) would be the best fit for the book.
The Process
After choosing the book, “The Rainbow Fish”, my group and I worked on the story spine. The spine is where we briefly described what happened in the book. We listed the most important details from the Rainbow Fish, so that viewers knew what the plot of the story was.
After creating the spine we each moved on to our separate portions of the project, but continuously gave each other helpful feedback and tips on how we should create our pieces.
Our Individual Elements
Like I mentioned previously, the individuals in the groups were free to choose any element to make their stories interactive and unique.
Element One: Quiz
My group member, Johnna chose to create a personality quiz to go along with “The Rainbow Fish.” For this quiz you answer a series of questions about how you would face the choices that Rainbow Fish Faced, how you would feel after certain situations, and what you would do if you were in the position of Rainbow Fish. She also added questions about the types of scales you prefer, along with others. At the end of the quiz the website generates qualities and characteristics that Best fit you based on your answers to the questions.
Element Two: Coloring Page and Quiver
I chose to use Quiver as my individual element. I found a coloring page that was based off of our story, that users can color however they would like. After coloring the picture users are to download the app called Quiver from the App Store. Once Quiver has been downloaded use the scan feature on the app to scan your coloring page. When the page has been scanned you can watch as your picture comes to life with the 3D feature offered by the app. Users are then encouraged to play games and explore what the app has to offer based off of their coloring of Rainbow Fish.
Element Three: Audio Tour
The next element was done by Katie. Using Google Tours she created a narration of the book while viewers receive a glimpse on the beautiful underwater setting of the story. In order to hear a narration of the story, the feature has to be enabled by clicking the gear in the right hand corner at the top of the site. Through this tour viewers get a real life depiction of the animated story.
Element Four: Crossword Puzzle
Lastly, our other group member Allie created a crossword puzzle based off of the plot of “The Rainbow Fish.” Once the crossword is completed correctly, a message is uncovered which reveals a what happened to Rainbow Fish. The crossword puzzle gives clues and hints by asking questions like “How did Rainbow Fish feel when he started to give away some of his scales?” Or stating things like “The scales _____ in the water.”
Overall Thoughts
This project was an interesting and creative way to incorporate teamwork, as well as individuality. In order to have it come together correctly we had to collaborate on thoughts and ideas, but there was still a sense of individuality because we were all responsible for one section of the project.
In the Future
I definitely could see myself incorporating transmedia assignments in the classroom. Although the guidelines for this project may be too advanced for elementary kids, it would be beneficial for them to try working with some aspects of transmedia.
