Which strategy should a teacher use to encourage journaling among sixth-grade students?

Encouraging sixth-grade students to engage in journaling can be effectively achieved by having them brainstorm reasons for writing outside of class. This strategy empowers students by allowing them to explore their own motivations and interests related to writing. When students identify personal reasons and relevance for journaling, they are more likely to feel invested in the practice. This approach fosters ownership and encourages them to see journaling as a meaningful and enjoyable activity, rather than just an assignment. By linking journaling to their unique experiences and emotions, students are also likely to produce more authentic and expressive writing.

While other strategies have value, such as guiding collaborative story writing or reading memoirs to inspire ideas, they may not directly address the personal connection that can enhance a student's commitment to journaling. Additionally, sharing examples of published work can serve as inspiration but might not fully engage students' own voices and interests. Therefore, brainstorming reasons for writing serves as a foundational step that can lead to a deeper and more sustained interest in journaling.