Biographies: Beyond Book Reports
So many interesting people to choose from!
Biographies can introduce students to a whole new world of historical figures and different eras. Studying them can also inspire students as they read about people who overcame problems, faced obstacles and criticism, but persevered to succeed. In this unit, students will explore different biographies and then choose one notable person of interest to study in-depth. Through interactive activities, students will present what they have learned to the class in a first-hand account as they transform themselves into their notable person.
OBJECTIVE
Students will:
- Understand that biographies give an account of a person's life and achievements
- Explore several different types of biographies to help determine their area of interest
- Use various resources to research one notable person.
- Write a biographical sketch
- Create several "artifacts" and gather props that help tell the story of the person they have researched
- Prepare a presentation to share what they have learned
LESSONS FOR THIS UNIT
Lesson 1: Introducing Biographies-Getting to Know You
Lesson 2: Presenting Your Case
REPRODUCIBLES
Biography Book Report Graphic Organizer (PDF)
CULMINATING ACTIVITY
After students have researched several people who have made a difference, they present the knowledge they have gathered on "Meet Your Hero Day." Students dress up as the person they researched and present the contents of a suitcase or trunk they have prepared to the class. You may invite parents to attend this showing and provide refreshments afterwards to reward the students for their efforts.
SUPPORTING BOOKS
Books for Teaching Biographies
- Teacher Store
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Dear America: Seeds of Hope
The Teacher Store 
Dear America: Seeds of Hope
by Kristiana GregoryFourteen-year-old Susanna Fairchild's family boards a ship headed for a new life in Oregon. But when her mother, and all their money, is swept overboard, her grief-stricken father decides to seek his fortune in California. Describing the exciting incidents in uncharted land, Susanna's diary shows your child how forging a new home helps Susanna recover from her mother's death.
$10.95
Hardcover Book | Grades 4-8
Grades 4-8 $10.95
- Teacher Store
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My Name Is America: The Journal of Jesse Smoke
The Teacher Store 
My Name Is America: The Journal of Jesse Smoke
When the American government forces the Cherokee Nation westward, their journey becomes known as the Trail of Tears. Jesse's 1838 journal reveals his sense of alienation and the suffering he witnesses. Offering an example of how hope and forgiveness can prevail, Jesse's diary explores how the Cherokee found the strength to rebuild on their new land.
$10.95
Hardcover Book | Grades 4-8
Grades 4-8 $10.95
ARTICLE
LESSON PLAN
