How to Write a Memoir

February 1, 2014

Gr 3-5-These books provide step-by-step instructions for various types of writing. Each one defines the topic, offers suggestions on how to begin thinking about the writing task, suggests several activities with simple charts to help organize thoughts, and includes a sample of a final product. For example, Fractured Fairy Tale provides an organizer that has children list the name of the original tale with the names of the characters, plot, settings, problem, and conclusion, and then make a chart for their story showing the changes in these elements. The next step of writing the tale will come easily once the organizer is completed. Lab Report discusses the components of the scientific method (make an observation, ask a question, form a hypothesis, conduct an experiment, and accept or reject the hypothesis). Memoir suggests first making a list of favorite memories. The photos include a diverse representation of children (some seem too young for the writing task) but do not add much to the presentations; the activities, clearly written texts, and charts are the stars of these books. Classroom and special-education teachers will find these titles valuable. This is a 24-volume series, so educators who don't plan to teach the writing skills covered in these books may want to check out the other titles.-Stephanie Farnlacher, Trace Crossings Elementary School, Hoover, AL

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