Writing a memoir is about drawing together the many defining moments of our life in a way that tells the story of who we are, what we have learned and why it is important for us to share it. As we progress through our life, we inevitably reach a point in which sharing our accomplishments and insights takes on a pivotal force, and writing a memoir is one powerful way to do just that.
This course will set you up for memoir success. Make foundational decisions about what to include in your memoir, choose meaningful life experiences each week to write about and learn helpful techniques for captivating your readers. As your collection of writing samples grows, receive insightful feedback and creative ideas on how to connect these stories and ultimately compose the first draft of your memoir.
Course outline
Week 1: Clarifying Purpose
Week 2: Identifying Experiences
Week 3: Determining Theme
Week 4: Refining Voice
Week 5: Revealing Emotions
Week 6: Creating Images
Week 7: Using Dialogue
Week 8: Developing Structure
This course is for anyone who wants to write a memoir and wants guidance on how to create, develop and finalize a first draft.
How am I assessed?
This course is marked complete/incomplete and is based on your attendance and participation. Your instructor will provide feedback during real-time online classes. Each piece of writing that is submitted will receive feedback on three elements of writing: main ideas, content flow, contrast and writing mechanics.
Expected effort
Expect to spend 2-3 hours per week completing readings, practice work and writing assignments.
Technology requirements
To take this course, you'll need access to:
- a computer, laptop or tablet under five years old and using Windows or macOS
- the latest version of a web browser (or previous major version release)
- a reliable internet connection.
One day before the start of your course, we will email you step-by-step instructions for accessing your course.
Course format
This course is 100% online and instructor supported. Coursework is done independently and at your own pace within deadlines set by your instructor. Log in anytime to your course to access the lessons as they become available.
Materials will be available for three weeks after the course ends, after which time you will no longer be able to access the course.