Principles & Framework

The Biography Clearinghouse uses the following framework to discuss biographies and their role in the curriculum. High-quality, well-written biographies are multidimensional and multi-layered. An exploration of how a biography is constructed is an essential element of classroom use. As students read a biography in language arts, science, social studies, mathematics, and the integrated arts, it is important to unpack the text and consider how it is composed, verbally and visually. As students explore the ways in which the book operates, and the decisions the author and illustrator made, they also use the biographies as vehicles for learning about the world.

For more information on the framework, read the Biography Clearinghouse Guide. Diversifying the curriculum is a national imperative. Contemporary biographies explore the lives of diverse peoples throughout history and around the globe. Because of the increasing diversity of subjects, biographies are one of our best tools for diversifying the curriculum K-8. Biographies reveal the diversity of people who have helped to shape government, the arts, science, sports, industry, and entertainment. Biographies can infuse the language arts, science, social studies, math, and integrated arts curriculum with models of agency and perseverance.