Have students work in groups of three or four to write an original story or adapt a favorite children's book or fairy tale for a puppet show. Because the stage props and scenery are minimal, puppet shows generally contain fewer scenes than a book might have, so that must be taken into account when shaping dialogue. Note what characters' voices should sound like; voices are important because the puppets' faces generally remain unchanged. Inflection and appropriate projection is vital during live performances because usually puppeteers remain off the stage.
Students can research the many styles of puppets, including what materials are needed to make them, then pick one type to design and construct for their chosen stories. Marionettes, rod marionettes, hand puppets, rod puppets, shadow puppets and Bunraku-style puppets are the six main types of puppets. Within those categories are sock puppets, finger puppets, giant puppets and two-person or body puppets.
Not all puppet productions need scenery but the odd scenic piece here and there enhances the audience's visual experience and a prop may be necessary for a plot point in the story. Have the groups discuss what is needed for their chosen stories. For small-scale productions, "Family Fun" magazine demonstrates how to make a basic wooden puppet playhouse out of plywood, pine, a curtain rod with old curtains, cardboard, glue, paint and hardware (see Resources). Students can work together to build the framework.
Have each student group produce a complete puppet show. Students can perform them for the public or just for themselves. Only an experience presenting a live production can demonstrate the kind of pressure inherent in a real show, as well as what unforeseen problems can arise. The production of a show and documentation of its creation could act as a final exam.