We’ve been working on writing memoirs in ELA for the past few weeks. Here is an update of what I’ve accomplished/learned at each stage of the writing process.
The part of the writing process that has been the most comfortable for me has always been…because…
Writing is not very comfortable for me. I have a hard time telling stories in writing.
The part of the writing process that has been the most challenging for me has always been….because…
Drafting because once I get my ideas I have a hard time putting the words down on paper.
Immersion
I’ve learned the characteristics of a memoir include:
1- A true story or narrative that often focuses on a memorable experience or particular time in the author’s life.
2-Written in chronological order so events unfold naturally.
3-Includes descriptive details,dialogue and pacing to develop experiences.
4-Often includes a reflection on why the event is important to the writer.
5- The writer is in the story . He or she tells the story from his or hers point over view.
6-Many memoirs include the writers family or friends or something who made a difference in his/her life.
7-Memoirs are written to make the reader fell something: happy,sad,mad,etc.
I think the characteristic I really want to focus on in my writing is…because…
I really want to make sure I include detail about how my sister specifically set her hair on fire because I want the reader to really visualize it.
My favorite memoir mentor text was….because the author…
My Rotten Red Headed Brother. The author put in a lot of detail that made me laugh. The rhubarb challenge was funny- I could picture the siblings fighting.
Generating Ideas/Selecting
Why do you want to share this idea/story with others?
I chose this story because it is funny and it is a memory with my mom and sister.
What emotions do you want your reader to feel as they read your memoir?
Happy that the story is funny and they want to keep reading it. I also them to feel suspense when the story reaches its climax.
Drafting
Here is my first draft:
(insert picture from writer’s notebook)
One thing I think I did really well is….because…
I am glad I got started because even starting my writing is challenging.
As I head into editing and revising, one thing I want to focus on is…because…
I think I should add more detail about how she actually started her hair on fire.
Stay tuned for another post soon as I work on revising my first draft. If you have any SHE (specific, helpful, empathetic) feedback, please leave it as a comment!