Notebooks and Science Instruction

We have started using notebooks with our students this year. Students seem to enjoy writing their thoughts, observations, reflections and material lists in their notebooks. We are now trying to figure out the best way to analyze and assess their notebooks. The article talks about grading the notebooks on organization (use of tables, charts, graphs etc...) or content. Our study group talked about using a spectrum with regard to content. Can the students understand and apply concepts learned? So far, the notebooks have been very successful with our students and students are really reflecting on their work. Our next step is to decide whether to grade them on content or organization. We are really guiding our students to look for evidence in their notebooks that supports their observations and conclusions.
~Amy Desmond