Dialectical Journals
Making Meaning in Literature
What is a dialectical journal?
It is a process for taking notes on literature in a double entry format. The two columns
provide a method of “dialogue” with the text and develop critical reading and reflective
questioning.
Why is it important?
The journal allows the student to “own” the literature by putting ideas into his/her own
words or by raising questions and hypothesizing answers about what he/she finds
intriguing in the literature. It also offers the chance to practice interpreting literature by
thinking more deeply about the themes developed by the author.
How is a dialectical journal set up?
First, divide the paper into two columns. The left column is used to take notes in the
form of direct quotations and paraphrases. The right column is used to comment on the
left column notes by drawing conclusions, making connections, speculating about
meaning, comparing, or contrasting. Finally, write an analysis of your understanding of
the “big ideas” in the literature in the form of a paragraph.
The Process
1. Read the story, poem, novel, or play.
2. On the second reading, note relevant passages that you find significant, that raise
questions, or that relate to the literary terms.
3. Write these passages in the left column of your journal along with the page
numbers. Number each entry and use parenthetical documentation. Be sure to
cover the entire literary work (beginning, middle, and end) in your notes!
4. As you write passages in the left column, record your comments and responses to
these passages in the right column. You must show evidence of careful reading
and thinking beyond the superficial, literal level. Your comments and responses
may draw conclusions, make connections, speculate about meaning, reflect,
predict, compare, contrast, infer, judge, suggest, interpret, or question. Focus on
meaning, not on plot! This means do not summarize or paraphrase these
passages. Be certain to include 3-5 sentences of response for each entry.
5. When you have finished your entries and comments, review what you have
written and write ONE sentence stating the theme (meaning/moral) of the
literature. You can later use this sentence as a possible topic sentence.
6. Then, go back through your journal to highlight the three passages you think are
the most significant and/or important in supporting the overall meaning of the
story, poem, novel, or play. These details can later be used as details in your
paragraph.
7. After completing dialectical journal entries, write ONE paragraph (8-11
sentences) that states the theme. Support it with specific examples from the
literature, and explain your ideas. Be certain to include specifics and avoid
“generalizing the theme.”