Journaling across the Curriculum

Science Best Practices

Journaling Across the Curriculum: Why journal?

• Research has shown that the regular habit of journal writing can deepen students’ thinking about their course subjects by helping them to see that an academic field is an arena for wonder, inquiry, and controversy rather than simply a new body of information. John C. Bean

• Student-created learning resource• Allows students to take control of their learning;

individualizes learning• We remember what we write down

Integrating Journaling, Collaboration, and Technology in Science

• Transforming notes and information into Thinking Maps

• Foldables and student-created Graphic Organizers• Web Quests• Research• Reflections and Conclusions• Drawings and 2-D models• Qualitative and Quantitative Data Collection• Integration of Depth and Complexity

Tips, Tools, and Expectations

Tips

•Set consistent procedures for journaling•Use both side of page•Implement a checkout system•Include warm-ups in a systematic way•Store in bins by class period

Tools

•Supplies at each station or lab table (staplers, glue, tape)•Duct Tape for binding journals•Tabs for separating units

Expect

atio

ns

•Self, teacher, peer commentary•Students use daily•Evidence of critical writing and higher level questioning/thinking•Anticipation guides with self-assessment•Student ownership

Pre-AP

On-level

Modifi ed