A Curious Kid’s Guide to Noticing and Wondering
Spark your thinking!
1. Set up your early SEL mini spark recording page: #13: Start an I wonder journal
2. Read the The steps for How to Write an “I Wonder…” Journal. When you are done write “I read steps 1-6 about how to write a journal entry!”
Step 1: Get Ready to Wonder. Before you start writing, get into a curious mindset. Your goal is to notice something interesting and ask questions about it. Think: “What’s something I saw or felt today that made me curious?” or “Did anything surprise me or seem strange?”
Step 2: Choose Something Interesting. Pick something from your day that stood out to you. It can be: Something you saw (like a bird, cloud, or a strange bug), A feeling you had (like nervousness, excitement, or confusion) or An interaction (a moment between you and someone else) Something new (a tool, toy, food, word, etc.)
Examples: A squirrel carrying a huge stick, The way my heart raced before my class speech, Why my dog tilts her head when I talk or A weird dream I had last night
Step 3: Start with “I wonder…” Now write a sentence that begins with: I wonder… Use this to ask a question or show your curiosity.
Examples: I wonder how birds know which way to fly during migration, I wonder why I felt so nervous before presenting or I wonder what my dog is thinking when she stares at me.
Step 4: Add Details and Ideas. After your “I wonder” sentence, write 3–5 more sentences that: Describe what you noticed, Explain why it caught your attention or Share your thoughts, guesses, or feelings
Example:
I wonder why some squirrels have darker fur than others. I saw one today with almost black fur, while others are light brown. Maybe it helps them hide in different places. I also wonder if it depends on where they live. I want to look it up in a book or ask my teacher.
Step 5: Ask Another Question (Optional)
If you’re still curious, ask another “I wonder…” question at the end.
This keeps your thinking going and shows you’re open to learning more.
✅ Step 6: Reread and Check
Make sure your journal:
✔ Starts with “I wonder…”
✔ Talks about something real and specific
✔ Includes your thoughts, ideas, or feelings
✔ Is written clearly with full sentences
🧠 Helpful Starters:
- I wonder why…
- I noticed that…
- This made me think…
- I started to feel…
- Could it be because…
- I want to know more about…
5. Share your SEL mini spark recording page with your teacher or the EY coordinator in your building