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16 Using Learning Logs

Page
135
from
Write on Course 20-20

Using Learning Logs Opening Page

Start-Up Activity

Read and discuss the chapter introduction on page 135. Then have students write “Learning Log” on a piece of paper and list the first thoughts that come to mind when they think of the concept. Ask for volunteers to share their observations. After your discussion, point out to students that they have just completed a type of learning-log activity.

Learning logs help students take ownership of their learning by exploring new concepts. In this way, a learning log is a journal for schoolwork. Tell your students that this chapter will help them keep learning logs in your class.

Think About It

“Don’t think and then write it down. Think on paper.”

—Harry Kemelman

Page 136 from Write on Course 20-20

Keeping a Learning Log

At the top of the page, review the tips for keeping a learning log. Then have students write a learning-log entry about an interesting topic they are studying. Have them consider why the topic is interesting, how it connects to other things they have learned, what questions they have about it, how they can apply or use it, and so on. Ask for volunteers to share their writing for discussion.

Then review the writing-to-learn activities on the second half of the page. Encourage students to try some of these activities in their future learning-log entries.

Related Resource Tags

Click to view a list of tags that tie into other resources on our site

Level:
Grade 6Grade 7Grade 8
21st Century Skills:
Writing to LearnSucceeding in School
English Language Arts:
Writing

Page 137 from Write on Course 20-20

Science Log

Review this sample log for a science class. Point out that it includes key words, personal thoughts, important facts and details, and a drawing. A log such as this one shows that the student is thoughtfully involved in his work. Ask students how this entry is different from classroom notes. (Notes record facts and details. Learning log entries include the writer’s thoughts and feelings.)

Related Resource Tags

Click to view a list of tags that tie into other resources on our site

Level:
Grade 6Grade 7Grade 8
21st Century Skills:
Writing to LearnSucceeding in School
English Language Arts:
Writing

Page 138 from Write on Course 20-20

Math Log

Review this sample math log, which is set up in a question-and-answer format. Point out that asking questions and then answering them in the log helps the student better understand the concepts being studied.

Have students use the question-and-answer format to write a learning-log entry for a subject they find challenging. They should write down two questions about the subject—things they don’t understand or are struggling with. Then they should do their best to answer each question in their own words. (It is okay if they need to refer to their textbooks.) Afterward, ask for volunteers to share their writing.

Related Resource Tags

Click to view a list of tags that tie into other resources on our site

Level:
Grade 6Grade 7Grade 8
21st Century Skills:
Writing to LearnSucceeding in School
English Language Arts:
Writing