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

2. 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)

3. 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.

4. 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

5. 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.

6. 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

7. Steps to Writing a Memoir:

8. 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

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

10. Get your Journal
Memoir Project
4/5/16

11. Memoir Project Packet Review

12. 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 them to me for credit.
Must have stapled in this order:
Rubric
Final Draft
Rough Draft
Brainstorm sheet

13. Papers that aren’t typed Will NOT be accepted.

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

15. 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.”

16. 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!)

17. 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!

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

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

20. Memoir Peer Edit
4/7/16

21. 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.

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

23. Time permitting, continue working on your memoir project.

24. 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.