Commonplace Book
Today, some people write blogs which serve as a way to publish their ideas on a variety of topics. Blogging, however, is nothing new. Beginning in the 1400s, some people maintained commonplace books (or commonplaces). These books were scrapbooks filled with writing from others -- quotes, passages, etc. -- and often contained the commonplace book owner’s responses to these writings.
Your commonplace book will serve a similar purpose: to offer your ideas on all kinds of topics (some of which you will come up with yourself and some of which we will dictate). It is similar to a journal which you might have done in other English classes. However, instead of looking like a notebook of solely writing, your commonplace book will also contain objects which connect to the topic of your writing.
Object and writing requirements for each entry:
1. An object that connects to your writing (a movie ticket, a clipping from a newspaper or magazine, really anything that is flat); the object must be something that you attach to the page; it cannot just be writing (such as a quote) that you write in your book. This object must be taped or glued onto the page where you are writing.
2. Writing of at least 250 words. You can write more of course, but 250 is the minimum. Your writing should be in paragraph form (and hopefully not just one long paragraph). Your writing must be in your own handwriting (printing or cursive); no typing. Use pen -- blue or black is easiest to read, but feel free to use other colors if you wish. No pencil; it smudges and doesn’t last long on the page. Try not to start with the words “This reminds of me of . . .” Just jump in and write. Go into detail. Be funny if you like. Show, don’t tell. Try to use figurative language if appropriate; make this a thoughtful piece of writing.
Date the entry. Give it a title. Some entries will have responses to them on Post-It notes; leave these Post-Its in your book.
Your notebook can be a simple spiral notebook (with ring binding, not glued binding), a theme book, or a nicer sketch book. The book must be no smaller than 7.5” x 10”.
Grading: Assume that your writing will be read by others (either by us or by other students). When your writing is read by others in class, we will score it as a credit/no credit assignment (credit is given if you meet the requirements listed on this page and discussed in class). When we read your entry, we will score it using this rubric:
√+ -- Work meets or exceeds all requirements; writing shows great care
√ -- Work meets all or nearly all requirements; writing shows some care
√- -- Work may not meet requirements; writing shows little care