A Simple Way I've Integrated Writing in My Middle School Social Studies Classes

Last year I started utilizing notebooks like the one pictured here in my U.S. History and Geography and World Cultures classes. The impetus behind the change was largely due to my observation that my students needed to WRITE more. There were other factors that played a role, albeit a lesser role, for example, students struggling to submit digital assignments in Google Classroom.

I use "Historian's Notebooks," "Geography Journals," "Citizenship Notebooks," etc. most frequently with stations activities/centers. I've also used notebooks with primary source analysis activities, map skills practice, and other work.

These "notebooks" have been such a success in my middle school classroom, that I have increased the frequency of their use.

Creating these notebooks takes a little time but once you get the hang of it, it gets easier and less time-consuming. I've created my notebooks using both PowerPoint and Google Slides. (Tip: Make sure everything on your second slide is upside down!) Once you've created your notebook, simply print your copies back-to-back and fold in half! Easy peasy. 

This is my Middle Ages Notebook. Look at slide #2 Do you see how everything on the second slide is upside down. This is important because when you print your notebooks back-to-back, you want everything orientated correctly. 

For lessons taking more than one class period, I store the notebooks in my classroom (each period has a separate wire basket) and I hand them out at the beginning of each class period. No more lost assignments!

Interested in a copy of my Montgomery Bus Boycott Historian's Notebook? Click here for a copy!

I've also noticed a marked improvement in student writing. Students are more engaged with the material as well. (Less passive typing and more writing, highlighting, sketch noting, etc.) ✏️

Next year I will be teaching 8th-grade Civics in addition to my World Geography class. (No more U.S. History 😢). I haven't taught Civics for several years (more like 5 years!) I'm in the process of updating my old Civics lessons. The resource pictured here is a two-day lesson focusing on the following topics: What is the definition of a citizen? What is a good citizen? What are personal, political, and economic rights? What's the difference between civic responsibilities and civic obligations?

If you're looking for a lesson covering these topics and you'd like to save yourself some time, check out my Civic Rights and Responsibilities lesson just posted in my TpT store. I've got you covered. 

Interested in my Geographer's Notebook on the War in Ukraine? Click here for a previous blog post on the subject.