A teacher describes how a classroom diary, part of a daily classroom routine, was created through class members sharing their experiences with each other. The diary also served as a teaching tool in such areas as language arts and handwriting. (CB)

Journal-writing helps students (including those with disabilities) gain a clearer sense of self and increases teacher insight into student behavior. Suggestions are presented for teachers on preparing students to write and teaching them when, how, and what to write in their journals. (CB)

Describes an eighth grade reading program that includes a requirement to read a diary. A questionnaire to determine students' favorite diaries and feelings about the genre is described, activities for students to try after reading a diary are suggested, and an annotated bibliography with 10 fiction and 10 nonfiction books is included. (LRW)