# Prompt 10: Memoir Checklist Create a checklist for writing a memoir excerpt that is emotionally engaging. Include: 1. Choose a Specific Moment in Time 2. Describe the Setting and People Involved 3. Show Emotions Through Actions 4. Include Sensory Details 5. Reflect on What the Moment Meant to You
# Prompt 9: A Conversation That Changed You Write a memoir excerpt about a conversation that shifted your perspective. Include: 1. Who Was Involved 2. Where It Took Place 3. What Was Said 4. What You Realized 5. How You Changed
# Prompt 8: A Holiday Memory Write a memoir excerpt about a meaningful holiday or celebration. Include: 1. Location and Atmosphere 2. People You Were With 3. Traditions or Moments 4. Unexpected Emotions 5. Reflection – why this holiday still stands out in your memory
# Prompt 7: A Life Lesson Learned the Hard Way Write a memoir excerpt about a difficult lesson you learned. Include: 1. What Happened – set the scene 2. Actions Taken – how you responded 3. Consequences – what the outcome was 4. Personal Growth – how it shaped your character 5. Reflection – what you would do differently
# Prompt 6: A Family Tradition Write a memoir excerpt about a family tradition that shaped your identity. Include: 1. Description of the Tradition – what it is and when it happens 2. Family Dynamics – who participated 3. Memorable Instance – a specific time it stood out 4. Personal Significance – what it means to you 5. Reflection – how it connects to your identity or values
# Prompt 5: A First Time Experience Write a memoir excerpt about a powerful “first” in your life (e.g., first job, first love, first loss). Include: 1. Setting – time, place, and context 2. Expectations vs. Reality 3. Key People Involved 4. What You Felt – emotional depth 5. Impact – how this experience influenced who you are today
# Prompt 4: A Journey Taken Write a memoir excerpt about a meaningful journey you took. Include: 1. Where You Went – and why 2. Memorable Experiences – highlight specific moments 3. Challenges Faced – and how you handled them 4. Self-Discovery – what you learned about yourself 5. Emotional Impact – how the journey changed you
# Prompt 3: A Turning Point Write a memoir excerpt about a turning point in your life. Include: 1. Background – what life was like before 2. Trigger Event – what caused the change 3. Internal Shift – how your mindset or emotions changed 4. Aftermath – what changed in your life afterward 5. Reflection – why this moment was pivotal
# Prompt 2: A Moment of Failure Write a memoir excerpt describing a time you failed at something important. Include: 1. Context – what you were trying to achieve 2. Events – describe what went wrong 3. Reactions – your emotions and thoughts 4. Lessons Learned – what you took away from the experience 5. Closing Reflection – how this shaped you moving forward
# Prompt 1: Childhood Memory Write a memoir excerpt about a vivid childhood memory that left a lasting impact. Include: 1. Setting the Scene – where and when it happened 2. Sensory Details – sights, smells, sounds 3. Key Characters – who was involved 4. What Happened – describe the moment clearly 5. Emotional Reflection – how it affected you then and now