Using Biography and Biographical Methods in the Classroom: Lives That Teach

• In Event: Methodological Issues in Biographical Research

Abstract

Biography and selected biographical methods can be taught to young children. Although the Common Core State Standards focus on biography as a genre for teaching content in science and history, teachers can also present students with the opportunity to develop their understanding of biographers’ tools. This qualitative study of teachers’ perceptions on their implementation of biographies and accompanying curricular guides resulted in five emergent themes: the utility of biography, student engagement with biography, grade placement of curricular guides, connections across content areas, and the role of teacher-led discussions in the development of biographical understanding. Biography is a fascination of adults, but nascent understanding of how biographies are created is perceived by educators to be within reach of elementary students.

Authors

• Christine Deitz, Little Rock School District

• Ann E. Robinson, University of Arkansas at Little Rock