Writer's Notebook -Some Forward Planning Is Needed


As the school year moves closer to its conclusion, it's an opportune time to consider the choice of writer’s notebooks for next year.

So, here's an alert...

Handing out a one size fits all notebook relegates this special writing resource to little more than workbook status, in the eyes of young writers. This situation is totally avoidable, but it requires some pre-planning on the part of those responsible for managing student resources. 

Let's be clear, we are talking writer's notebooks, not a string of sausages. Let's work to elevate the writer's notebook to a status possessing some integrity. 


Choice begins with allowing young writers to choose the type of writer's notebook they wish to 'own.' One size doesn't accommodate every writer. Every writer is unique.


Most pleasingly an increasing number of schools are facilitating this important, differentiated change when it comes to selecting writer's notebooks.


Lined, unlined, thick, thin, big, small, chunky -options abound. Notebooks with strong spines as opposed to spiral bound notebooks with thin paper pages should  most definitely be on the menu of choice.

Allow young writers to choose from these various options. Suppliers can cope with such a request. I've seen it in action. It is not difficult to facilitate.  Young writers feel respected when they are given the same choice others writers are given. 


Ask the supplier to bring in a range of notebooks based on what young writers feel would work best for their writing needs. Lay the notebooks out and let the choosing begin.


Choice begins here for writers of all ages and experience. I get to choose what works best for me, and have so for four decades. I strongly believe this option should be extended to our developing writers. It has certainly contributed to my engagement with writing. Choosing my next notebook continues to be such a buzz after all this time.

Ownership, integrity and engagement are all enhanced when the writer's notebook a young writer is holding, is one they have personally identified as meeting their individual needs as a writer. Young writers frequently share their preferences for particular notebooks when we are discussing this important matter.



If young writers wish to continue writing in their current notebook when the new school year commences, this should be seen as a positive. Such a stance honours process. It is very much an informed choice. The new notebook can wait until they are ready to call upon it. 


Alan j Wright


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