Journals in the Language Classroom

According to Scott J. Baxter in the article Journals in the Language Classroom that published on English Teaching Forum at number 4 2009.
I really agree with author. He had mentioned practical advice for using journals in the classromm. The main idea is "Writing to learn", yes, it's very important by thinking about the concept of writing to learn and start with a thought experiment.

Scott gives some suggestions that are considerate to think about:

1. Ask students buy a notebook they can easily carry around with them. So, they can take notes about what they think about in this moment.

2. The language of the journal could be English, but it could also be their first language. Because it consider of the level of students. So, even beginner students they can write down their ideas with their fisrst language.

3. Collect and read the journals on a regular basis, but do not correct.

4. Ask students to leave a blank page between entries for room to comment later. Teachers can write something they really like and what the student to know that.

5. Encourage students to write about wide variety of topics, but alway connect with the class.

6. Keep a journal along with students, and tell them what you expect for.

7. Look for ways to connect the journal with what you consider important in the class, and give activities at the end of the class.

I really like this article.