Benefits of Writer’s Notebooks

Many writers like to keep writer’s notebooks handy so they can jot  down “seed” ideas whenever they pop into their heads.  I encourage students to do the same. The writer’s notebook is a staple in my writing classroom, probably our most important writing tool.  It is a place for my students to free write on mostly self-selected topics, a place for them to explore seed ideas which may later be taken to publication.  It is also a place for my students to practice revising their writing using the craft techniques we learn through mentor text mini-lessons.

• Promotes fluency in writing and reading

• Encourages risk taking

• Provides opportunities for reflection

• Validates personal experiences and feelings

• Promotes thinking and makes it visible

• Promotes development of written language conventions

• Provides a vehicle for evaluation

• Provides a written record of students’ literacy learning