Journaling can deepen student learning by helping them see subjects as arenas for inquiry rather than just information dumps. It allows students to take control of their learning and individualize it while also helping them remember what they write down. Journaling in science can include transforming notes into thinking maps, creating graphic organizers, conducting research, recording reflections and conclusions, drawing models, and collecting qualitative and quantitative data. Tips for effective journaling include setting consistent procedures, using both sides of the page, implementing checkouts and warm-ups, and providing supplies at work stations. Expectations are that journals include self, teacher, and peer commentary; are used daily; and show evidence of critical thinking.

1. Journaling across the Curriculum
Science Best Practices

2. 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

3. 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

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