1. Reader Writer Notebook and ELA Binder
Set up

2. Dividers will be set up into the following sections:
Agenda- you will write down the day’s activities and homework
Warm-Up- done on one sheet of paper to be turned in for a daily grade on Friday
Notes- over content we are learning in class
Writing- brainstorming, essays, etc…
Vocabulary- you will be creating your own lists; we will discuss more in class
Items to keep in your binder at all times- notebook paper, reading log, ELA contract
***You will need your ELA binder every day in class!

3. Reader/Writer Notebook Guidelines and Expectations
“Keeping a notebook is the single best way I know to survive as a writer. It encourages you to pay attention to your world, inside and out. It serves as a container to keep together all the seeds you gather until you’re ready to plant them. It gives you a quiet place to catch your breath and begin to write.”
-from Breathing In, Breathing Out: Keeping a Writer’s Notebook (1996, Fletcher)

4. Expectations
To read voraciously for pleasure, because there are so many great books.
To write (or sometimes draw) what you are thinking, because your thinking matters.

5. Step 1
Cover – Choose pictures that portray who you are to completely cover the front and back of your RWN. You can also choose stickers, magazine cut outs, decorative duct tape, computer print outs, or whatever reflects your personality and paste these items on the front and back of your RWN.
Make sure your selections are school appropriate. Decorate the outside and inside covers of your composition book. Use tape or glue to put these things on the cover. If you decide to paste pictures, use clear packing tape to seal the front and back covers once you have decorated them. Make sure your first and last name dominantly appears on the front cover.

6. Set-up Instructions
The first page will be your title page. You will need to write your name and “Reader Writer Notebook”
The second page will be titled “Expectations”
The third page will be titled “Table of Contents” and you will need to leave the next two pages blank.

7. Step 2
Title Page - On the 1st page of you RWN, print your first and last name, write your class period, and document the school year
Use markers, stickers, cut outs, or whatever else you choose to decorate that page as well. Number your pages on the bottom right corner as you go.

8. Step 3 On the 2nd page of your RWN, create a page titled EXPECTATIONS.
Copy the following information in pen:
1. Write in blue or black ink or pencil. When coloring, use map pencils/colors that are readable. NO sharpie or markers!
2. Write neatly.
3. Date each entry, add it to the table of contents
4. No inappropriate content for school.
5. Must be original work. No cheater babies.

9. Storage
RWNs will be kept in the classroom in your class period’s designated crate.

10. REMEMBER… All writing should be done in blue or black pen or pencil
Sketches and drawings may be done in #2 pencil or color- no sharpie or markers!
All writing/drawings/observations should be dated and entered into the table of contents
Challenge and push yourself to try new things.
Always aim for the highest quality writing, reading, and response.
Be cooperative, respectful, and courteous to yourself and other learners around you (including peers and adults).