Introduction to Memoir

1
Introduction to Memoir

• What is a memoir?

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 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.
• A short text focused on a single incident that is
  meaningful to the author.

OR
4
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

5
Event vs. Experience

• A memoir is not just a retelling of an event
  its an exploration through the thoughts,
  emotions, and importance tied to that event, by
  the author.
• Memoir isnt the summary of a life its a window
  into a slice of life.
• Different people may experience the same event in
  different ways.

6
Everything Will Be Okay

• Recognizing the authors experience
• What are the events described?
• What is the authors experience?
• What is the text evidence that supports the
  understanding of the experience?

7
Exit Slip

• How did thinking about the authors experience,
  rather than just the events, change your
  understanding of the memoir? (individually answer
  on a half sheet of paper and turn in to Ms.
  Schmitt)