Reading Reflection; The "J"

The interesting thing about this article is that it clarifies an activity many writers do naturally. But not all students are natural writers and I particularly enjoyed Kirby's techniques for helping those students to whom writing does not easily to get started.

I think the main thing that writing in a journal does for a student is to begin to make the practice of writing easier, more fluid, and less of a chore. I'm sure for many English teachers the problem is not just teaching the classics or writing essays but how to get students to find any level of enjoyment in these tasks. It would stand to reason then, that if students enjoyed these things that they may retain them as well!

The wonderful side benefit of teaching journaling, in my opinion, is that many students today simply do not have anyone to tell their thoughts to. As they point out in the article, of course you have to set boundaries, no teacher want to hear about their students drinking or doing drugs! But today in our busy world with two working parents kids don't often have someone around to tell their thoughts to, much less someone who has the time or inclination to listen. Journals powerful benefit, aside from the gain in writing skill, is being the place where a student can be themselves and present their thoughts and opinions without judgement, a place where they can open up and create a confidant on paper, one who will always be there and never turn away.

I really enjoyed this article as a way to break down the steps to successful journaling. It was really presented in a way that made it easy, clear, and fun for teachers of almost any subject to implement.