Learning Logs
Learning Strategy #23 -Katie Orscheln
What are Learning Logs?
Learning logs are student-made notebooks or booklets used during thematic units to record students' learning process. Students write questions, summaries, and reflections about their learning, and make charts and diagrams to organize the information they learn. Writing in learning logs is impromptu and the emphasis is on using writing as a learning tool rather than the final product. Learning logs can utilize several different learning strategies such as data charts, clusters, maps, time lines, and other diagrams.
Why Use Learning Logs?
- Allow students to explore new ideas
- Practice using new vocabulary words
- Personalize learning- great way to differentiate instruction
- Teachers can quickly monitor students' understanding of topic
How to Use Learning Logs in Classroom?
2. Throughout unit, students take notes, draw diagrams, list vocabulary words, do quick writes, and write summaries
3. Teacher monitors logs throughout- gives feedback, checks for understanding of big ideas, answers questions, clarifies any confusion
4. Students review logs at end of unit and write reflection about what they've learned
When to Use Learning Logs in Classroom?
- During thematic units to make notes and respond to information they're learning as they read nonfiction books and chapters in content-area textbooks
- Great for all grade levels
Instructional Focuses of Learning Logs:
- Comprehension
- Writing
- Content Area
Common Core State Standards for ELA:
- Students comprehend grade appropriate informal texts
- Students gather information from print and digital sources
- Students identify and integrate knowledge as they make entries in learning logs