Warm-Up copy these vocabulary notes Narrative: Any real or imagined story. Autobiography: An account of a person’s life, written by that person. Biography: An account of a person’s life, written by another person. Memoir: An account of specific memory – think of it as a “snapshot” in time. Vignette: A brief, detailed, description, account, or episode of a story.

Characteristics of a memoir A memoir tells the story of a single memory. It focuses on the relationship between the writer and a particular person, place, or thing. The story makes clear the significance of that relationship. Why is it important? It makes clear what the author learned or took away from that memory. The audience must understand the lesson or impact the memory had. It is based on truth and reveals the true feelings of the author.

Characteristics of a memoir When reading or writing a memoir, make sure it includes: A catchy title A hook or introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and gives some background knowledge Many details Imagery and other figurative language A conclusion that shows the author’s reflection on the memory

Cultural memoirs Includes all the same characteristics of a memoir, but focuses specifically on a memory that is important because of the way it makes the person reflect on their culture. Remember: Culture = a person’s “way of life,” based on any number of groups they belong to. Cultural memoirs often focus on particular elements of a person’s culture: Food memory Family memory Holiday memory Environment/neighborhood memory Culture clash memory

Culture clash A conflict that occurs when different cultural values and beliefs collide. Quick Write: Imagine you meet someone you really like, but who is the last possible person your family would want you to bring home. Describe what would make it difficult for someone to fit into your family. Then describe what might happen if you brought this person home to meet your family.

CULTURE CLASH EXAMPLES My Big Fat Greek Wedding: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQC6cLJhTek Our Family Wedding: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WOqDynSA2I The Joy Luck Club: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_t82eWkb_tM

“FISH CHEEKS” BY AMY TAN Chinese-American writer (parents are Chinese immigrants) Author of 7 novels, some children’s books, and many articles Writes about culture clash, mother-daughter relationships, and Chinese culture and immigration The Joy Luck Club is her most popular novel “Fish Cheeks” Cultural memoir First published in the magazine Seventeen in 1987

“fish cheeks” by amy tan During Reading: Annotate: 1) Underline every example you see of the author REFLECTING on her memory and why it is important. 2) Circle every detail, example of imagery, or piece of figurative language. 3) Make notes in the margin – questions, comments, connections. After Reading: Discuss: In your groups, work through the discussion questions. Respond: Complete the response questions on your own.

closing List 3 important elements of a memoir.