The second tool students will need on this trip is the travel journal. The students’ journals will be a key part to the success of the journey. The reflections on literature, film and geography will all take place inside the pages of these journals. I will ask students to hand write in the journals, but the use of computers is an option. Along with the map, the journals will be the only tangible thing that students will have to show for their journey when they get off in St. Petersburg. Basically any notebook will do, but I will ask students to pick up the smaller black and white comprehension notebooks that are available for just a couple of dollars in a lot of stores. Students will cover/decorate their journal before they begin the trip so that, once again, the students’ journals are as individualized as the students and the maps. The maps should be folded so that they can fit inside the front cover of the journals. The itinerary should also be attached inside the back cover. Using the themes at the various stops students will be encouraged to reflect on the literature, film, geography and discussion that takes place along the journey. Students should be writing in the journals daily, not just on “prompt days.” Ask students to write on anything that they encounter on the journey; reactions to pictures, film clips, other maps, literature, passing thoughts or anything else. Doodling and illustrations on the inside of the journal should be encouraged.