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Writing about a new learning experience allows for critical thinking to process and integrate new ideas and concepts into previous learning and conceptual schema. This kind of activity helps keep new learning in long-term memory while encouraging connections to other ideas and experiences. Students will use a three-column-note format and respond in pictures, words, phrases, sentences, or paragraphs.
STEPS:
MODEL PROCESS: Model the process by writing in the columns and display it on chart paper or through the use of technology.
SET UP PAPER: Set up the paper in three columns.
At the top of the first column, respond to the following question: What did we do?
At the top of the second column, respond to the following question: How did we use it?
At the top of the third column, respond to the following question: How will I use it in the real world?
DISTRIBUTE STRETCH JOURNAL CHART: Distribute the Student Handout: Stretch Journal Chart to students and ask them to take notes at the end of a lesson, day, week, or unit of study.
DISCUSS HOW TO USE STRETCH JOURNAL: Discuss the reasons for keeping this particular kind of stretch journal and the ways that it will be used as a learning tool. Explain that learning makes more sense when it connects to something that we already know and you can see how it might be utilized in the real world. This provides a purpose for the learning and an image hook to trigger memory and connections in the brain.
DECIDE HOW TO USE STRETCH JOURNALS: Decide when and how students will share their journals with other students, the teacher, and/or their families.
SCAFFOLDS:
To adapt this lesson for primary classes:
Allow students time for discussion about their learning, why they need to learn specific academic language, and how they are learning. Discussion serves as a rehearsal for writing and helps to develop confidence prior to writing.
Ask students to sketch or draw their ideas and include letters, words, and/or phrases.
Provide sentence stems with increasing language demands.
Have students use a recording device to record thoughts verbally that can be saved and reviewed over time.
Create and model the whole group stretch journal and keep it visible over time.
Have students begin to share their writing by demonstrating their entries in front of the class, using either a large chart format or technology, or with a partner.
Gradually release students to write with a partner, and then independently.
Debrief and give feedback.
EXTENSION:
To integrate technology, ask students to create an ongoing blog or Google document with graphics and graphs created using technology, as well as imported photos or clipart.
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