Journal Topics for Use at the Beginning of a Lesson

Journal writing is an excellent way for teachers to frame a lesson. The following journal topics are designed to be used as you begin a new unit. They can be used across the curriculum.

1. Tell what you know about ___________(a new concept).
2. What is your opinion about ______________ (topic of the day)?
3. Describe an experience you have had relating to _________ (topic of the day).
4. Explain how _________(topic of the day) plays a part in your life.
5. Explain how _________(topic of the day) will play a part in your life ten years from now.
6. Summarize what you have learned so far about __________(previously studied topic).
7. What has been the impact of _________(previously studied topic) on your life?
8. Describe a difficulty you have had related to __________(new or previously studied topic).
9. How do you think __________ (previously studied topic) relate to _______(new topic)?
10. List from one to three questions about _________(new topic).
11. Do you think your classmates understand what's going on? If not, why not?
12. Why is the teacher presenting this lesson?