Using Memoirs to Open Doors to Research
I begin each year with a media unit to introduce students to the power of words. They love looking at ads, analyzing them, and creating one of their own. Following our media unit, we do a autobiography/biography unit. My eighth graders take their writing SOL (Standards of Learning) test in March, so they need to begin writing right away. The best way to encourage my students to begin writing is to have them write about themselves!
We begin by reading the autobiographical writings of others. This is enjoyable for my students because they love to read true stories. In the course of studying autobiographies, we discuss memoir writing. One of my favorite memoirs is "My Dog Skip" by Willie Morris. It includes many elements that my eight grade students enjoy. It takes place during the World War II era. Willie is a young boy who is struggling with shyness, popularity issues, bullies and young love. He receives an adorable puppy one year for his birthday. He names the little terrier "Skip" and they develop a bond that many people only dream about...(more)
