Double Entry Journal
Visible Learning Strategy - Double Entry Journal - DEJ - this type of t-chart, when used with intentionality, helps our students make connections between what they've read and what they think about what they've read. It's also a powerful tool to use when working toward inferences and deeper thinking on any topic!
When to use this?
The Double-Entry Journal strategy enables students to record their responses to text as they read or problem solve. Students write down phrases or sentences from their assigned reading and then write their own reaction to that passage. The purpose of this strategy is to give students the opportunity to express their thoughts and become actively involved with the material they read. It can also be used for them to be reflective and metacognitive as they work through new content, problems, and skills.
ELA Double Entry Journal
This DEJ helps students reflect on the text they're reading, to make connections, predictions, or ask questions about it, which leads to retention and transfer.
Math Double Entry Journal
This DEJ helps students reflect and explain how they do the Math problems they do. This leads them to think deeply about the Mathematics they're doing as well as explain it in their own words, which leads to retention and application.
Setting up the DEJ - Model
Students need to know and understand WHY they are using this tool. This will make it more metacognitive for them. The emphasis is on the thinking and the reflecting, and hence the learning.
For use as a visible learning strategy, think of this as a tool for students to show their thinking and reflect upon their thinking.
Some sample headings for the top of the journal that lead to comprehension or vocabulary aquisition are:
What the text says : My thoughts on this
What the author thinks: What I think
What the text says: What the text shows
What just happened: My prediction about what will results will occur