Introduction to Memoir Get your Journal Introduction to Memoir 4/4/16

When I say “memoir” you say… Brainstorm words that pop into your head when you hear the word “memoir” (individually) Work together to form a working definition of “memoir” (small group) Share and tweak your definitions(as a class)

Memoir The words memoir and memory come from the same root word. However, good memoirs explore and reflect on a central theme or question. They invite readers to explore and reflect with the narrator to try to unravel the deeper significance of the recounted events. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLHkuSpJxPs

Memoir A narrative about your personal experiences Memoir writing? "It's like driving a car at night. You never see further than your headlights, but you can make the whole trip that way."—E.L. Doctorow A narrative about your personal experiences You can write a memoir about: A specific event that happened to you A specific aspect of your life (relationships with family members, travels, struggles to overcome something) A particular time period of your life The impact on your own life of an outside event

Think R.A.F.T. R (role) – YOU are the main character. Rememer to write this like a narrative.. A (audience) – The audience is the world. Or, more specifically, me. Tell the world all about it, but remember to use appropriate language. F (format) – Memoir (a true story in the form of a narrative). T (topic) – Inspiration from your memories.

What do I include in a memoir? Specific memory Description of an event from the past First person Told from one persons point of view Based on that persons view of the truth Reveals the writers meaning Shows what writer has learned from experience More about your experience than the actual event

Steps to Writing a Memoir:

Brainstorming Keep things “loose” Quick phrases Include senses and details What you were wearing What the weather was like Where you were located What you were doing Keep writing phrases not a story Transitions and descriptions will come later

Brainstorm NOW Use your own paper for this – and keep ALL notes. You will be turning in everything with your memoir project.

Get your Journal Memoir Project 4/5/16

Memoir Project Packet Review

Memoir Project Due Dates Rough Draft – 4/7/16 Hand written copy Will be 3-4 pages written length (will be 2-3 typed) Include brainstorm information Final Draft – 4/11/16 Typed copy – no exceptions I will not be printing ANY for you. Please find another print source. You may NOT email them to me for credit. Must have stapled in this order: Rubric Final Draft Rough Draft Brainstorm sheet

Papers that aren’t typed Will NOT be accepted.

Where you should be in the memoir writing process… Brainstorm Draft Review Publish Polish Revise

Hooking Introduction Like all writings, a strong introduction is key to the success of your writing. Choose strong words to help provide the greatest effect to grab your reader. Example: “One rainy day I went to the mall.” “I splashed across the parking lot, yanked open the tall glass door, and dripping wet, stepped into the mall.”

Ending Options: Memory- “I’ll never forget…” Feeling- “I can still feel…” Hope/Wish- “I hope…” or “I wish…” Decision- “From that day on…” Ask yourself, “What is the point?” (The answer is not because Mrs. McKenzie is making me!)

Start working on your rough draft now. Begin Start working on your rough draft now. Use your brainstorm ideas to push through and get some of your story written now!

Memoir Take out your memoir pages and continue brainstorming, writing, and editing. 4/6/16

Where you should be in the memoir writing process… Brainstorm Draft Review Publish Polish Revise

Memoir Peer Edit 4/7/16

Memoir Peer Editing Steps Switch papers with your neighbor. Write your name at the end of their story. Step 2: Read the paper and at the end of story, write 1 paragraph reaction response. Step 3: Under your reaction, list 3 things that the writer needs to improve on.

Where you should be in the memoir writing process… Brainstorm Draft Review Publish Polish Revise

Time permitting, continue working on your memoir project.

LAST day to continue revising and polishing your paper. Memoir Project 4/8/16 LAST day to continue revising and polishing your paper. Remember – You MUST type your final draft and have it ready to turn in Monday 4/11/16.