Publisher's Synopsis
The double-entry journal strategy is easy to implement but should be used frequently to be effective. Students write in their own language about what they are learning. For teachers and students, entries influence learning by revealing problems, questions, connections, and concerns. Although it is a strategy most commonly found in language arts, social studies, science, reading, and math, students in elective classes such as "mythology and Computer sciences," "Shop," and fine arts can benefit as well. Double-entry journals serve a variety of purposes. Students record their thoughts and feelings or reactions to text excerpts or short films, online research, and/or to their own questions and areas of interest relating to the area being studied
Our notebooks are preformatted with two columns already laid out with a topic and date header atop each page. The left column is labeled "From the text" as a simple prompt reminder that the left column is for referencing the page numbers and source material being studied. In the left column of the double-entry journal, students should reference vocabulary words, short quotations, or other passages from or features of the text that interest them or that elicit a strong response. They record the word, quotation or brief passage, either verbatim or in paraphrased form. In the right-hand column, (which we have labeled "From Your Mind") students record their reactions, feelings, interpretations, or other responses to the text segments/features they have selected.
How does the double-entry journal help students? Some examples:
- To react to a writer's main idea, topic development, argument, etc.
- To keep track of their learning during question and answer sessions
- To look at specific lines and passages for clarity of meaning
- To interpret a line of poetry or to decide how they feel about a character (words, actions, etc.)
- To explore a topic or idea. (By being asked to explain what specific words or phrases mean, students will be able to reference reasons and evidence to support their views, their understandings.)
Cover image colors may appear slightly dissimilar on different computer screens than final printed version.
