Reading Journals
To develop reflective reading through keeping a personal reading response journal.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Literacy
- Learning area: Literacy
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Records responses to reading
- Expresses opinions about books
- Draws favourite scenes
- Shows developing reading identity
Materials
- Personal reading journals (A5 notebooks)
- Response prompt cards
- Coloured pencils
- Book display
Instructions
Give each child a personal reading journal — a special notebook just for their thoughts about books. 'This is YOUR reading journal. After we read, you can write and draw about what you thought.'
Provide simple response prompts: 'My favourite part was...', 'I felt... when...', 'This book reminded me of...', 'I would change...', 'I give this book... stars because...'
Model journal entries: 'After reading 'Owl Babies', I'm going to write in my journal: My favourite part was when the owls' mummy came back. I felt relieved! I give it four stars.'
Children respond in their own way — some draw, some write, some do both. All responses are valid. A detailed drawing of a favourite scene is as valuable as written sentences.
Review journals periodically with each child: 'Let's look through your journal together. You've read seven books this term! Which was your favourite?' Journals build reading identity.
Journals become powerful assessment evidence — showing comprehension, vocabulary use, personal response, and reading range over time.