What is True?: Memoir Research

Approach and Rationale:

This activity is the culmination of a memoir unit in which one of the the guiding questions is:

What is the role of truth in a memoir? 

One approach to reading memoirs involves investigating the nature of the genre itself.  With whatever book(s) teachers choose to read, students can consider the line between truth and fiction in autobiographical storytelling.  A memoir is work composed of autobiographical accounts from the author's life, and while it is considered a non-fiction genre, we know storytelling involves embellishments and editing choices.  The genre also relies heavily on the memories, perspectives, and accounts of one person.  Often readers accept a certain level of potential embellishment in the interest of entertainment value, and some believe that if the story is emotionally true, the accuracy of the account may not matter much.  However, readers may feel tricked by a story that is presented as true when it isn't completely truthful.  For example, looking the case of an author like James Frey may make it obvious to students why this is such a controversial issue.    

Suggested Activities while Reading and Before Researching:

Among other activities, teachers can have students write a personal account of an event they remember and then examine it to consider what they may have embellished or what a friend or family member may remember differently.  

Teachers can also have students keep track of their reactions to various events described in the memoir, including noting events they find believable or unbelievable.  

Before embarking on this research, teachers should provide instruction about evaluating sources and internet searching.

The Research Project:

Given the potentially fluid nature of the relationship between truth and fiction in the genre, the study of memoirs leads well to an authentic opportunity for research in which students investigate the facts behind the story by conducting internet research.  Students can then present their findings and compare to the accounts provided in the memoir. 

Sample Instructions for Students:

The instructions teachers can provide to students are included on these Google Slides, where students can simply add their work, so there will be one continuous presentation from the class.  Teachers can simply make a copy, adjust for their particular needs, and share with students.