Using Journals With Reluctant Writers: Building Portfolios for Middle and High School Students

"I loved the book and the soulful responses it generated from my reluctant writers."
Dee Conklin, Ph.D
Teacher, Reno Sparks Indian Colony
Reno, NV  

"This journal program is authentic and gets students to write! Because the journal topics reflect current issues, my students respond positively. And, I get great insight into their lives."
Carol Popowich
Resource Teacher, Marshall Alternative High School
Bend, OR

"This is a book that is sorely needed! I′m impressed with the mature way the topics are presented to the students."
Rob Owens
Teacher, Washburn Rural High School
Topeka, KS

"This is one of the best books I have seen on topics for writing. All students could benefit from this – not just the reluctant writer."
Carol Miller, Intervention Specialist  
Mineral Ridge High School
Mineral Ridge, OH

Using Journals With Reluctant Writers is an effective language arts tool for teachers, especially those who teach at-risk, alternative, and special education students. Designed to inspire even the most reluctant writers, journal topics are followed by non-revealing, non-threatening exercises to introduce writing as a means of expression and to allow students to test teacher reactions. Positive teacher responses then encourage students to move on to material that require more personal reflection and further elaboration.

Whether using the journals for daily practice or weekly assignments, teachers can effectively lead students through critical thinking, self-discovery, and ultimately more relevant and proficient writing. Each chapter begins with a topical, thought-provoking quote and concludes with suggested videos and related readings that can be used for more comprehensive assignments. Using Journals With Reluctant Writers also assists teachers and students in creating a complete language arts portfolio.

Highlights of this teacher′s guide include:

• Topical chapter-opening quotes that instill deeper self-reflection
• Multiple questions for each topic to encourage more in-depth responses
• Suggested readings for more comprehensive assignments
• Suggested videos for each journal topic―students relate well to videos!
• Flexible format for daily entries or weekly assignments
• 45 journal topics for weekly assignments throughout the academic year

An essential resource for any teacher who wants to motivate students to write well and write often, while thinking critically about their own lives and choices.

"I loved the book and the soulful responses it generated from my reluctant writers." 

 "This journal program is authentic and gets students to write! Because the journal topics reflect current issues, my students respond positively. And, I get great insight into their lives."

"This is a book that is sorely needed! I’m impressed with the mature way the topics are presented to the students." 

"This is one of the best books I have seen on topics for writing. All students could benefit from this – not just the reluctant writer." 

"The topics and assignments are intended to develop students’ critical thinking skills, encourage self-discovery, and ultimately result in more relevant and proficient writing."