Activity Overview
This activity allows students to explore the timeline template in the Storyboard Creator that is typically used for history projects and apply it to their own life story! Students will tell their life story from birth to present using the timeline format. They will brainstorm significant events that helped to shape their lives such as the birth of a sibling, a move, a new pet, a special trip, an accomplishment in or out of school, or a new activity or venture. They can find characters that look like themselves, family members, and friends to create scenes for each event. Students can add descriptions to the bottom of each scene to further explain what happened and its significance to their lives. This activity is a fun way for students to share about themselves with their teachers and classmates while exploring the Storyboard Creator in the process!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective:
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Think of 5-10 events that have been influential in your life such as when you were born, birth of a sibling, adoption of a pet, starting a new hobby, achieving a great accomplishment, learning a new skill, traveling to a new place, the global pandemic, etc.
- In the Timeline layout, add the dates of each of your life's events.
- Add scenes, characters, and items that clearly illustrate each event.
- In the description boxes, add 2-4 sentence descriptions for each event and why it was important in your life.
Requirements: 5-10 events with dates, clear illustrations, and descriptions for each event.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Events and Dates | The events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. The dates provided are correct. | Most of the events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. Most of the dates provided are correct. | Some of the events chosen for the timeline are significant. There may be missing events, or events that are irrelevant. Too many dates may be incorrect. |
| Explanations/Descriptions | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are accurate and provide insight into the significance of the events. | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are mostly accurate and attempt to provide insight into the significance of the events. | There are several glaring inaccuracies in the explanations or descriptions of the events. There may be little or no insight int the significance of the events, or the information provided may be too limited or missing. |
| English Conventions | There are 0-2 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 3-4 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 5 or more mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. |
Activity Overview
This activity allows students to explore the timeline template in the Storyboard Creator that is typically used for history projects and apply it to their own life story! Students will tell their life story from birth to present using the timeline format. They will brainstorm significant events that helped to shape their lives such as the birth of a sibling, a move, a new pet, a special trip, an accomplishment in or out of school, or a new activity or venture. They can find characters that look like themselves, family members, and friends to create scenes for each event. Students can add descriptions to the bottom of each scene to further explain what happened and its significance to their lives. This activity is a fun way for students to share about themselves with their teachers and classmates while exploring the Storyboard Creator in the process!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective:
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Think of 5-10 events that have been influential in your life such as when you were born, birth of a sibling, adoption of a pet, starting a new hobby, achieving a great accomplishment, learning a new skill, traveling to a new place, the global pandemic, etc.
- In the Timeline layout, add the dates of each of your life's events.
- Add scenes, characters, and items that clearly illustrate each event.
- In the description boxes, add 2-4 sentence descriptions for each event and why it was important in your life.
Requirements: 5-10 events with dates, clear illustrations, and descriptions for each event.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Events and Dates | The events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. The dates provided are correct. | Most of the events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. Most of the dates provided are correct. | Some of the events chosen for the timeline are significant. There may be missing events, or events that are irrelevant. Too many dates may be incorrect. |
| Explanations/Descriptions | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are accurate and provide insight into the significance of the events. | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are mostly accurate and attempt to provide insight into the significance of the events. | There are several glaring inaccuracies in the explanations or descriptions of the events. There may be little or no insight int the significance of the events, or the information provided may be too limited or missing. |
| English Conventions | There are 0-2 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 3-4 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 5 or more mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. |
How Tos about All About Me Timeline Activity
How to Adapt the All About Me Timeline for Younger Students
Modify the timeline activity for grades 2–8 by simplifying instructions, using fewer events, and providing visual supports. This helps ensure all students can participate and succeed no matter their age or reading level.
Select age-appropriate events for your timeline
Guide students to choose simple, relatable milestones such as starting school, first lost tooth, or making a new friend. Examples make brainstorming easier and help younger students connect with the activity.
Provide visual prompts and templates
Offer pre-made timeline templates and picture cards showing common events. Visual aids support understanding and make the activity accessible for emerging readers.
Use group discussions to spark ideas
Facilitate a class conversation about special memories before students begin. Sharing aloud helps generate ideas and builds confidence for students who might struggle to think of events on their own.
Allow drawing or dictation for descriptions
Encourage students to draw pictures or verbally describe their events if writing is challenging. Multiple expression options ensure all students can share their stories successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions about All About Me Timeline Activity
What is an 'All About Me' timeline activity for students?
An 'All About Me' timeline activity is a creative assignment where students illustrate key events from their own lives using a timeline format. It helps students reflect on their personal history while building skills in sequencing and storytelling.
How do I create a personal timeline using Storyboard Creator?
To create a personal timeline in Storyboard Creator, start by brainstorming 5-10 important life events. Add each event in order with dates, choose characters and scenes that represent them, and write short descriptions explaining each event’s importance.
What are some examples of events to include in a student life timeline?
Examples of timeline events include birthdays, moving to a new home, getting a pet, starting a new school, special trips, learning new skills, or major accomplishments. Encourage students to pick moments that are meaningful to them.
Why is a personal timeline activity valuable for high school students?
Personal timeline activities help high school students develop self-awareness, practice storytelling, and connect with classmates. They also build skills in organizing information chronologically and visually.
What tips can teachers use to make the 'All About Me' timeline engaging?
To make the timeline activity engaging, encourage students to use colorful scenes, diverse characters, and personal artifacts. Allowing creative freedom and sharing timelines with classmates can boost participation and connection.
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