You may recall one or two autobiographies that you have already read, if not you might want to do some reading now. Either way, think about why the author presented the material in certain ways. What does the written presentation say about the authorâs history, society, or feelings about him/herself at that time in life?
Do some reflecting on your family history - think of your family's background as the recipe for how you came to be you or take a look at some memorabilia you have in your room or in your wallet. A photo, artifact, or your family background can serve as a starting point. So, begin with a single photograph or something you saved in a scrapbook. Follow the thoughts these frameworks create for you and allow those thoughts and associations to guide you. There are many ways to start conceptualizing your story. Think of things to start with that will help connect one part of your life to another and give your autobiography a meaningful context.
For instance, if you select a photograph, think about:
Invite yourself to question the "normal" or habitual ways that you think, so that you can go beyond the obvious in your autobiography. This way of thinking and creating meaning will help you develop strategies for asking different kinds of questions about the writing, reading, and learning you are doing. Remember, different ways of presenting things and looking at things help you as a writer and as a learner.
After spending some time thinking, write down a list of your ideas.
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