My initial reaction to this article was "what the heck are science notebooks?" Is this some sort of special notebook, or just a notebook used for further exploration by students. I think the article could have done a better job of describing exactly what the teachers at Miller were using with students.
However, the article did point out several advantages that I think support the use of these notebooks. For one, having a place where students can express concerns and questions to which teachers can alter or suppliment their curriculum is a huge advantage. Those students who are less vocal in the classroom setting are still heard and get their questions answered in this way. I have always had the intention of giving my students a venue for asking questions or expressing concerns privately, but having a subject specific outlet, like Science notebooks, is a great idea too.
The other key idea that I liked from the article is how the notebooks provide the teacher a way to do formative assessments on the students' conceptual understanding, vocabulary and language and writing skills. It is certainly a great way to assess how students are thinking about the material, and provides an anxiety free way for students to express their thoughts/ideas.
Finally, I have to commend the Miller teachers for the way in which they approached the use of Science notebooks. Anytime something is being implemented, its important to evaluate how it will be best used by all. And, by meeting frequently to discuss what's working and what could be improved makes the use of the notebooks more valid and beneficial for the students and the school.
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