Memoir Independent Reading

For this assignment you will pick a memoir that you really enjoy. You will choose from the books that the librarians have set aside for this project. See me with questions! Start reading in class the very first day and continue that evening. If you find you don't like your selection, go back to the library the next day, before class meets again and exchange your book! The whole point is to find a book that appeals to you.

Fill in the memoir choice sheet* and divide the book into four sections.
After reading the first section, fill out part 1 sheet*.
Read part 2 and answer the questions on the part 2 sheet*.
Read parts 3 and 4 (there are no separate sheets for these parts.)
After you finish the whole memoir, answer the questions on whole memoir*.
Lastly, complete one of the creative projects below and present it to the class. Your presentation must be one to three minutes long. Practice it at home and make sure you stay within this time frame.

* These sheets are located on your Edline page under Handouts and Materials--> Memoir Independent Reading

Creative Memoir Projects:

Create and present a poster advertising the book to potential readers.
Create a one to three minute video book trailer promoting the book
Pretend to be the author and come in to the class prepared to speak to us about your book (dress up and bring props!)
Create and present a three minute Powerpoint slideshow introducing the book with visuals
Suggest another creative project and have it pre-approved (before creating and presenting).

Creative Project Requirements

1. Let the audience know why they should read the book

2. Identify and appeal to the audience of the memoir

3. Show that you have thoroughly read and understood your memoir

4. Make sure the title and author are prominent in your project

5. Tell only enough plot to interest the reader

6. Effectively use visuals and words to show important aspects of plot, major ideas and themes

7. Be sure to integrate at least one great quote (can be from your questions!)

8. Use appropriate visuals, music (if applicable), words, and overall tone to convey the tone of the memoir

9. Highlight at least one important incident from the memoir

10. Do not tell the ending

11. Present your work neatly with a minimum of errors.