Memoir Composition

"With a kind of fear, I begin to write the history of my life. I have, as it were, a superstitious hesitation in lifting the veil that clings about my childhood like a golden mist. The task of writing memoir is a difficult one." Helen Keller


Sixth graders are in the third week of writing their own memoirs. This is a demanding task. Sixth graders are being asked to write about themselves in meaningful ways. While reading "Looking Back" by Lois Lowry and "The House on Mango Street" by Sandra Cisneros, students are writing about snapshot memories, stand out moments, experiences and people that are important to them. Over the last two weeks, students have generated pages and pages of writing. Some days have been difficult as students struggle to find words and thoughts for this assignment. On other days, it seems that the sixth graders can't stop writing; thoughts and ideas are flowing and there isn't enough time to put what they want to say on paper. Each day has been a step toward finding a focus, narrowing their writing down to one specific theme or topic.

This week, students are choosing one topic- a character trait or theme to focus on. They will begin writing their first drafts and also start the process of creating a self portrait.

Our memoir projects will be complete and ready for presentation on April 19th. Stay tuned for updates on this process and details on what our celebration evening will encompass.