Why write in a reading notebook?

I am often asked this question by teachers? It is a really simple answer.

1.  A notebook-preferably a composition notebook is easy to manage. It doesn't fall apart.  It is  durable and allows for easy organization.  It is small and can fit in a reading book box.
2.  It is a place for students to try our ideas or strategies.  It is a place to make mistakes.  It is a place to keep your thoughts in one place.
3.  Like most things, writing about reading  takes practice.
4.  It is great way to measure (there are plenty of others too) student's understanding of standards.

This is a forum to simply share ways that teachers write about reading.  Teachers at my school spend an incredible amount of time and effort thinking about this.   I enjoy the work and the messiness of the work. I learn something new every time we think deeper about a concept. The students continue to blow my mind with their entries!!!!Let's get to work!