What is a Writers’ Notebook?

Writers need lots of practice.  A new runner wouldn’t just announce one day, “I am going to run a marathon.”  Instead, the runner trains a little each day, and builds his or her muscles and endurance, so that eventually the runner can run the marathon!  Writers also need to train, build their “writing muscles,” and develop the ability to write on demand.  The writer’s notebook is a place to train and experiment, therefore becoming a stronger writer.

Another goal of the writer’s notebook is to generate ideas for later pieces of writing which can be shared with others.  The notebook is just like an incubator:  a protective place to keep a new idea safe and warm, a place to grow while it is too young, too new to survive on its own.  In time you may decide to go back to that idea, add to it, change it, or combine it with another idea.  But, not all writing ideas from your notebook will produce polished pieces of writing.

 

You will also use your writers’ notebook to:

• Record observations in your reading (author’s craft, figurative language, word choice, etc.)
• Collect, define, and experiment with new vocabulary
• Experiment with writing (different points of view, voice, writing styles, genres, grammar structures, etc.)
• Keep class notes on writing strategies
• Maintain personal spelling/editing lists
• Set goals and/or reflect on writing
• Sketch/draw in order to inspire writing
• Plan for a writing piece (graphic organizers, outlines, lists, etc)
• Collect artifacts as inspiration for writing (photographs, articles, quotes, etc.) 

 “A writer’s notebook gives you a place to live like a writer.”

from: A Writer’s Notebook, Unlocking the Writer Within You By:  Ralph Fletcher

What is NOT a writer’s notebook?

It’s not a diary, a place for “rough drafts” of stories or other writing, nor is it a place to write your English assignments or any homework.  It is also not a place for polished, finished writing.

 Notebook “Musts”:

• Date every entry.
• Do not skip or tear-out pages.
• Any drawings must have writing with them.
• Vary your writing topics and structures.
• Care for your notebook and have it in class on your desk everyday.
• Write legibly to be able to re-read your words later.