Grade 5: Biography Lesson 1

Understanding Biographies

​WALT: Understand what a biography is and the key features of a biography

Multiple Choice

What do you think the word "biography" means?

• A story about a fictional character.

• A story about someone's life written by someone else.

• A guide on how to write a diary.

• I am not sure

What is a biography?

A biography is a detailed description of a person’s life written by someone else. It covers their early life, major achievements, challenges, and legacy.

Key features of a biography

1. Early life (family, upbringing, childhood)

2. Major achievements (personal or professional)

3. Challenges or obstacles they overcame

4. Legacy (what they are remembered for)

5. Why it’s written (to inspire, teach, or inform others)

​Examples of biographies

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is NOT a part of a biography?

• Early life

• Favorite colour

• Major achievements

• Legacy

​Interactive Reading Activity

​DISCUSS:

Who is this?
What do you know about him?
What is he famous for?

​Early Life:

Jack Ma was born on September 10, 1964, in Hangzhou, China. As a child, he loved learning English and would ride his bike for 40 minutes every day to give tourists tours of his hometown in exchange for English lessons. Even though he wasn’t very good at school, Jack worked hard and was determined to improve himself. He failed the university entrance exam twice but finally got into Hangzhou Normal University.

Multiple Choice

What did Jack Ma like to do as a child?

• Learning English

• Riding his horse

• Riding his bike

• Playing computer games

​Achievements:

​This section of a biography highlights the important things the person has accomplished in their life. Achievements often show how the person overcame challenges and made a difference in their field or community.

• Examples of Achievements:

  • Winning an important award (e.g., Nobel Prize, Olympic Medal)

  • Starting a successful business or organization

  • Making a scientific discovery or invention

  • Completing a major project or goal

Legacy

The "Legacy" section focuses on how the person is remembered after they have passed away or after they have left their active career. Legacy refers to the lasting impact they have left on the world, society, or future generations. It often reflects the changes or inspiration they brought to others and how their work continues to influence people.

• Examples of Legacy:

  • A leader remembered for bringing peace or reform

  • An inventor whose creations continue to be used today

  • A teacher or activist whose work inspires future generations

  • A philanthropist whose charity work continues to benefit others

Achievements:

In 1999, Jack Ma founded Alibaba, an online marketplace, with the goal of connecting Chinese businesses to the world. Even though many people didn’t believe in his idea at first, Jack was confident and persistent. Alibaba grew to become one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world, making Jack one of the richest people in China. He is known for his innovative ideas and his belief that technology can help people and businesses succeed.

Reorder

Put the following events from Jack Ma’s life in the correct order.​ ​

• Jack Ma is born

• Jack Ma rides his bike to give tours to tourists in exchange for English lessons.

• Jack Ma passes his university entrance exam and attends Hangzhou Normal University.

• Jack Ma founds Alibaba.

• Jack Ma focuses on education and charity work after stepping down from Alibaba.

1

2

3

4

5

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• 5

Legacy:

Jack Ma is not just known for creating a successful company but also for his contributions to education and entrepreneurship in China. He encourages young people to never give up, no matter how many times they fail. Jack Ma stepped down from Alibaba in 2019 to focus on his charity work, including efforts to improve education in rural areas of China. He remains an inspiration to millions, especially for those who dream of starting their own businesses.

Word Cloud

Brainstorm who you might choose for your biography project.

Open Ended

Write one fact you found interesting from Jack Ma's biography.

Poll

Do you feel that you now understand what a biography is and the key features of a biography?

• Yes, I fully understand what a biography is and its key features

• I mostly understand but need a little more practice.

• I am still confused and need more help.