(IC) Lesson Topic 3: Reading Journals

A reading response journal is a notebook in which we write about things we have read, like a window to our thoughts. In it, we communicate thoughts and feelings about the book we are reading.

Expectations

• Date each entry and write the title of the book and the author.
• Write, on average, a page (although the length may vary).
• Proofread your responses before turning them in.
• Produce one thoughtful response each week.
• Write during your independent reading time.
• Reflect on the comments the instructor gives you.

What are the Qualities of a Thoughtful, Well-Written Response?

In each entry:

• Use language to communicate your thoughts clearly. The writing should flow smoothly from idea to idea.
• Demonstrate an understanding of a text by making inferences and connections. Go back to the text to support your ideas.
• Use conventions of print (spelling, punctuation, grammar, capitalization, and organization) in a standard way.

What Can We Write About in the Journals?

• Make predictions about what will happen next.
• Write from the main character's perspective.
• Agree or disagree with the message of the text.
• Show a personal reaction to the story.
• Explain strategies.
• Describe the main character's personality.
• Comment on how a character has changed.
• Relate the text to your personal life.
• Compare the text to another text the author has written.
• Explain why you liked or disliked the text.
• Comment on the mood of the story or the author's use of language.
• State an opinion about the actions of the characters.
• Describe how a passage in the text created an image in your mind.
• And finally--if there is anything you think about while reading that you feel strongly about, always feel free to write about that!

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