I suggest using a three-ring binder to store your journal entries after they have been read and graded. Each journal entry should contain several paragraphs, written in your own words, and should conform with the following format:

Journal Format

Author______________________ Reading Title ________________________

Your Name ___________________ Date ______________________________

1. Summary

• Write from memory, noting what you recall as the main ideas of the reading.

1. Integration

• In your own words, how does this reading “connect” (amplify, contradict, substantiate, etc.) to other information about this topic? The other information may be in the form of other readings, news stories, or images of the police portrayed in popular culture.
• What do you see as the implications of the ideas covered in the reading?

1. Application

• How can you use the information in this reading?
• Does the reading change your view of some aspect of policing? Explain.
• If you think there is no application for the material, say so. However, provide a rationale for your position.

1. Evaluation

• Describe your reaction to the reading (like, dislike, etc.). Why?
• Who is the appropriate audience for this reading? Why?
• What would make the reading more useful?

5.Essay question

• Create an essay question based on the reading that requires critical thinking (comparing, analyzing, evaluating, critiquing, justifying, etc.). The question should be capable of being answered by someone who has read this and earlier readings in our class.

We will use the journal entries in class as a catalyst for reflection, making connections among ideas and topics, and as a means of demonstrating knowledge of concepts, ideas and important points.