Each student designs a square that represents their biography subject using symbols, drawings, and a short description. Temple got diagnosed with Autism. Visitors “press a button,” and the student comes to life to give their speech.
How It Works:
Each student researches a historical or influential figure.
Students write a one-minute speech in the first person.
They create a costume and simple props (or a tri-fold poster).
Classmates, teachers, or parents are invited to walk through the “museum.”
Why It Works:
Encourages public speaking and performance.
Blends creativity and historical research.
Gives every student a chance to shine.
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You could even take it a few steps further and have students share what they learned in costume as the person they researched in a wax museum activity!
Have students create a social media page of the person they learned about in their biography
Have students read about a person of interest, and then write journal entries as that person.
You could make it seasonal!
Biography Activities for Elementary Students
These biography activities are great resources for teaching biographies to elementary students. They write a script, record audio or video, and edit the final product using basic tools or apps like Flipgrid, iMovie, or Canva Video.
Key Elements:
Introduction and background.
Timeline of key events.
Voice narration with music or visuals.
Creative touches like sound effects or dramatizations.
Why It Works:
Teaches digital storytelling and communication.
Builds confidence and tech skills.
Perfect for sharing with the school or parents.
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Afterward, when they are finished creating their chart, allow them to practice their Speaking and Listening skills by presenting their work to the class.
7. One day, Temple’s mom thinks that it would be better for Temple to stay on her aunt’s ranch. They learn all about the person’s achievements, struggles, culture, life lessons, and personality.
Use readings as homework, so parents can also discuss.
One option you have is to send passages home once a week for homework. An autobiography, on the other hand, is written by the person themselves. Students generally have TONS of connections to share during biography read alouds that lead to great conversations.
How To Teach Students To Write Biography Reports
One way to help students learn how to write biographies is to write their first one about themselves!
They’ll need to research habits, routines, jobs, family life, and surroundings to create an accurate and imaginative piece.
Writing Prompts Could Include:
“Write about your most important day in history.”
“What would you say to a classroom of kids today?”
“What were you thinking during your biggest accomplishment?”
Why It Works:
Combines research with creative writing.
Allows students to put themselves in the subject’s shoes.
Builds empathy and voice.
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The story starts off with Temple being born, and the doctors thinking that she needed to be sent away because she was different. Combine all the squares to create a class “quilt” of lives that shaped the world.
Materials:
Paper or fabric squares
Markers, paint, fabric, or collage
Labels and captions
Why It Works:
Encourages teamwork and classroom community.
Visually shows diversity of contributions.
Beautiful to display in the hallway or classroom.
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The students take on the role of that person to write the poem in the first person.
5 Reasons Why Teachers Love It
Below are 5 reasons why teachers love using this resource for teaching biographies.
These biographies activities are high-interest for students, so they’ll be motivated to learn through reading and researching.
This comprehensive resource includes differentiated materials, so all you will be able to meet all of your students’ needs and your students will feel successful.
This print and go resource will save you lots of time planning and prepping.
Your principal, colleagues and school librarian will be impressed by the creative methods of sharing learned information and the integrated learning that takes place.
The resources can be used with an biography study and be used over and over again.
My Life in Pictures: A Scrapbook Biography Project
To complete this biography, activity the student will take on the role of the individual they are studying. Then have them find books about the person and complete a research project about that person to present to the class. Biography Picture Books
Below are 5 high-quality biography children’s books for elementary students.
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It typically focuses on important events, achievements, and experiences that shaped that person. The Important Book Biography Activity
The Important Book is a great book for teaching students about writing patterns. This post will equip you with all of that and more!
