Biographical Approach Paper Format
What goes into a biographical approach paper? Like other approach papers, this is a tool for initial analysis of a subject. As you think through each element of the paper, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the person profiled.
Header
Person:
When they lived:
Where they lived:
Life Summary
Write an interesting 1-2 paragraph summary of the person’s life.
Key Players
Choose 3-4 key people involved in the person’s life and list 4-5 vividly descriptive words for each person. Each word may be used only once, and may not be used to describe more than one person.
Discussion Questions
Think carefully about the person and his or her life and write three analytical discussion questions that would help to reveal more about his or her character and achievements.
Significant Event or Achievement
Choose an event or achievement that seems to be the most significant point or climax in the person’s life and write a one paragraph description.
Significant Point Explanation
Why do you believe this was a significant point in the person’s life? How is this person and his or her achievement remembered today? Write a fully-developed paragraph in response to these two questions. Support your position with quotes from the text or other sources, if appropriate.
