The Living Page

The Power of the Notebook

Bestvater argues that keeping notebooks is one of the most powerful educational practices available. When students draw what they observe, copy passages they love, and record their thoughts, learning moves from passive to active — from the page to the person.

This practice has deep roots in both the Charlotte Mason and classical traditions. The commonplace book was a staple of classical education for centuries.

Types of Notebooks

The book covers several notebook traditions:

• Nature Journals — Detailed observations of the natural world, with drawings and notes
• Commonplace Books — Collections of quotes, passages, and ideas worth remembering
• Books of Centuries — Timeline notebooks that help students organize historical knowledge
• Sketch and Study Notebooks — For recording experiments, map work, and artistic practice

Why This Practice Matters

In an age of screens and passive consumption, the habit of keeping a notebook teaches attention, reflection, and ownership of learning. It's a practice that serves students from grammar school through rhetoric and beyond.

At Saints Classical Academy, we value practices that make learning personal and lasting.