Narrative Writing Mode: The Six-Word Memoir
Learning Goals:
W.9-10.10. Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research,
reflection, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or
two) for a range of tasks, purposes, and audiences.
W.9-10.3. Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events
using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event
sequences.
W.9-10.3c. Use a variety of techniques to sequence events so that they build
on one another to create a coherent whole.
W.9-10.3d. Use precise words and phrases, telling details, and sensory
language to convey a vivid picture of the experiences, events, setting, and/or
characters.
OVERVIEW:
At its core, the six-word memoir teaches us to be concise but also introspective.
Try describing yourself in six words. The six-word memoir is a great way to focus
on getting a point across in as few words as possible—being concise! Choose
your words precisely since you can't waste any. The six-word memoir teaches all
of us writers a critical skill: words are valuable and have meaning.
EXAMPES: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSaqMZN4-gs&feature=youtu.be
TASK:
Produce FIVE memoirs that demonstrate an ability to use the English language
creatively and effectively, a basic understanding of computer applications, and a
knowledge of self.
Each memoir must use 6 words and be paired with an appropriate, symbolic
image to enhance and/or reinforce the overall message of your words.
View the example above regarding music. What image would you use to
complement the 6-word memoir?
EXTENSION:
Mozilla Thimble and the National Writing Project give step-by-step instructions for
students on how to use the HTML and CSS needed for creating unique web
pages that feature images and their six-word memoir.
Learning Goals:
*W.9-10.10. Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, and revision) and
shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Narrative Writing Mode: The Six-Word Memoir
Planning:
Self-Assessment/Reflection:
Score________/5
*W.9-10.3. Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique,
well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.
Planning:
Self-Assessment/Reflection:
Score________/5
*W.9-10.3c. Use a variety of techniques to sequence events so that they build on one another to create a
coherent whole.
Planning:
Self-Assessment/Reflection:
Score________/5
*W.9-10.3d. Use precise words and phrases, telling details, and sensory language to convey a vivid
picture of the experiences, events, setting, and/or characters.
Planning:
Self-Assessment/Reflection:
Score________/5
SCALE:
Product Completion: Each completed memoir earns 2 points.
Narrative Writing Mode: The Six-Word Memoir
10
8
6
4
2
Ideas/Content: Each memoir is centered around one main idea.
5
4
3
2
1
x2
Ideas/Content: Your memoirs are deep and powerful—instead of being just
a basic description of you. It paints a dynamic characterization of you!
5
4
3
2
1
x2
Word Choice: You have chosen powerful, vivid, specific verbs and nouns.
5
4
3
2
1
x2
Voice: Your memoir accurately depicts an aspect of your life (e.g., interests,
character, goals, experiences). The reader should be able to connect the
subject with the ‘story’ that is being told about you.
5
4
3
2
1
x2
Use of Technology: You have chosen an appropriate, symbolic picture and
font for your memoir. The text is readable. The image complements the
memoir without distracting from the text.
5
4
3
2
1
x2
Total_________________/100