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Introduction to Memoir. What is a memoir?. When I say “memoir” you say…. Brainstorm words that pop into your head when you hear the word “memoir ” Work together to form a working definition of “memoir” ( small group ). Memoir is….
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Introduction to Memoir What is a memoir?
When I say “memoir” you say… • Brainstorm words that pop into your head when you hear the word “memoir” • Work together to form a working definition of “memoir” (small group)
Memoir is… • A type of autobiographical nonfiction where a writer takes a reflective stance in looking back on a particular time in his or her life. OR • A short text focused on a single incident that is meaningful to the author.
What is the purpose of memoir? • Brainstorm in your small group. • To reveal something important about yourself or your life. • To leave something of you behind for others • To bear witness (to say, “I was there when…”) • To learn something about yourself • To celebrate an important person or event in your life
Event vs. Experience • A memoir is not just a retelling of an event; it’s an exploration through the thoughts, emotions, and importance tied to that event, by the author. • Memoir isn’t the summary of a life; it’s a window into a slice of life. • Different people may experience the same event in different ways.
“Teacher Man” • Recognizing the author’s experience • What are the events described? • What is the author’s experience? • What is the text evidence that supports the understanding of the experience?
Something to Consider • How did thinking about the author’s experience, rather than just the events, change your understanding of the memoir?