Science Journal Writing

Purpose: A science journal enables you to take responsibility for your learning, helps you develop an idea of what science is, and builds your communication skills. A journal also reveals how science can help solve real-world problems.

Materials

• construction paper (a few sheets/light colors)
• scissors
• single or 3-hole puncher
• notebook paper (3-hole)
• 3 fasteners (yarn, string, ribbon, brads, rings)
• ruler
• pencils
• tape
• stickers
• old magazines (collage material)

Procedure

1. Use construction paper to make the front and back covers of the journal. Cut the paper 9 inches wide by 12 inches long. The covers will protect the notebook paper inside.
2. Place a piece of 3-hole notebook paper over th front and back covers and trace the three holes with a pencil.
3. Use the hole puncher to punch out the holes that you traced.
4. Sandwich a stack of 3-hole notebook paper between the front and back covers and fasten the papers together.
5. Create a journal cover illustration after considering the following questions:
   • What does a scientist look like?
   • Where does a scientist work?
   • What tools does a scientist use?
     Note: You can draw pictures, create a collage, or both. Be sure to let the creative juices flow!
6. Review the list below and select an idea to use in your new science journal.
   • Exploration of ideas, questions, and thoughts
   • Data collected in experiments
   • Labeled graphs, drawings, and/or diagrams with comments
   • Newspaper clippings and responses to the articles
   • Pressed samples or rubbings of gathered objects
   • Meaningful quotations or thoughts from other scientists
   • Poems, persuasive letters, persuasive writings, and stories