Six Word Memoirs and Reviews.

Aims and Objectives: 

• Need to think about punctuation and sentence structure.

In this session we will be exploring six word memoirs and attempting to write and create our own.

Six Word Memoir:

1.To demonstrate a knowledge of implicit (suggested meanings) in text
2.To recognise how a writer uses specific words and phrases to affect the
reader
3.Strategies to analyse and interpret meanings of words and phrases in text
4.Syntax: sentences are the right words in the right order with the right punctuation in the right place. Explore!
5.Demonstrate a knowledge of synonyms
6.What is a memoir?

Recap:

Q: What is the writer doing when he/she chooses specific words in their writing?

A: The writer is trying to create a tone for the reader in order for them to feel involved in the writing.

Q: What is an implicit meaning in text?

A: Something that is implicit is inferred – it is suggested, but not actually said. Implicit meaning can be a little harder to find than explicit meaning. Writers like to draw you into their text and get you involved.

Synonyms for boring words: 

• dull
• tame
• stale
• tired
• nothing

Ernest Hemingway’s Short Story: “For sale: Baby shoes, never worn. ”

This short story seems to be about a pair of baby shoes that are for sale which is an example of flash fiction. The characters could be only the baby who’s shoes are being sold or the person who has decided to sell these baby shoes. As it is only a 6 worded story it is difficult to establish. The writers choice of words create a powerful image in the readers mind and allows the mind to explore all possibilities of this story. We are left wondering why the shoes are being sold, have they really never been worn, why are they selling baby shoes, did something happen to the baby? The punctuation is effective as it makes the sentence very brief and to the point. The choice of words are effective despite being very simple and blunt and the order of the words work in order to create such a short story with only 6 words.

Writing my own 6 word memoir… 

“Useless houseguest. Not wanted or needed.”

“Freedom is a frame of mind.”

“Speak to be heard, not ignored.”

Evaluation: 

In this session I have understood the meaning of implicit meanings in text and began understanding why a writer will use specific words in order to affect the readers. Also, attempted to write my own six worded memoir with implicit meaning that leaves the reader curious to my intentions. I found this task difficult and will probably need more practise to fully understand the process of how to do it but I have a better understanding than I did before I began this session.

Reviews. 

Learning Outcomes:

-To discuss and identify what a review should look like.

-To research, acknowledge published examples and use to influence our own writing.

-Identify the steps and requirements of writing a review.

-To research and review a musician, song or album.

-To write a review of two different mediums/forms from: for films, books, TV, theatre, art exhibitions, concert, music events, recorded music, restaurants, sports events…