Journal Writing

Like C.T., on the `Voyage of the Mimi`, the students began writing journals. In class, we have reviewed a format to follow in writing journals.

1) Introduction - Begin by simply rewording the journal question.

2) Link - Relate to an event in your life.

*Keep it GENERAL*

3) Next Sentence - Start with WHEN, then add WHO, WHERE and WHAT (SPECIFIC).

4) Rest of the Paragraph - Describe the event. Use SPECIFIC details. (2-4 sentences)

5) Concluding Sentence - End journal with a final thought or what you learned.

Sample Journal - 1

C.T. is learning sign language on the 'Voyage of the Mimi'. I do not know sign language, but I have learned all about coordinate planes. Yesterday in Math class, the class was introduced to this new style of graphing. Mr. Wakefield began the lesson with a hidden message activity. With partners, the students had to use the given coordinates to unveil the answer to what you call a boomerang that does not come back to you. Although, the class had a hard time with the message, the answer made most of the students smile. The next activity was on the Chrome Books. The students played 'Dino Dig'. In this game, the students had to use coordinate pairs to try to dig up dinosaur bones. It was a fun way to practise the skill. Finally, the last activity was another hidden massage activity. This time, the class had to try to find out what happened to the man who lost his left side. Luckily, Connor managed to figure out that he was 'all right' and as a result, the class was given no math homework. It was a fun Math block. By the way, if you throw a boomerang and it does not come back to you, it is a 'stick'.

Sample Journal - 2

C.T. is really enjoying his time on the Mimi with his grandfather and crew. Although, I have never been on a voyage on a boat, I have been on a number of trips. One of my greatest trips was my family vacation to Cuba. Five years ago during March Break, my family and I took a trip to Varadero, Cuba. It was an amazing trip with the beautiful, white sandy beach, warm sunlight and all-you-can-eat buffets but the greatest day of the trip was the day we rented a car and drove to Havana. It was like we were on the Amazing Race and the pit stop was the country's capital city. The people were so friendly and the city was filled with historical churches and buildings. It was one of the most memorable times of my life and I would love to visit again.