In this club for middle school learners, we will explore the natural world and learn how to observe and describe the many aspects of phenology. (Phenology is the branch of earth and ecology science that studies the cyclical nature of the earth. Examples include the 1st robin of spring, the 1st frost, and when the last produce in the garden is picked.) We will discuss themes for our journals, including weather, vegetation, wildlife, night sky, and various others. 
Every session will include a short talk about a major theme, such as weather, and how to record it in our journals. Following the theme will be a specific topic, such as clouds. Each of these sections will be brief; about ten minutes each. The remainder of the class will be for open discussion and sharing of what is in our journals, what we've seen in the natural world that relates to our day's theme or topic, and how we choose to record our observations and data.
When we have new learners join, we will talk a little about nature journals and their place in  history. The major themes of our club- Vegetaion, Animals, Daylight, and Night Sky will repeat. The "topics" in which we break down these themes will vary from week to week. They might include trees, budding plants, birds, butterflies, twilight, stars, temperature, and clouds. Our weekly discussions will allow for the learners to expand on things they find interesting or apply to their local environment. 
Most nature journal classes focus on art. This club will focus on observational and documentation skills. Learners are welcome and encouraged to create their journal according to their own interests and talents. They are welcome and encouraged to sketch, paint, take rubbings, make charts and graphs, make or use maps, take photos, or simply use words in their records. 
Some learners have ample outdoor areas to explore. Some have limited yards, playgrounds, and parks. Still others  have few outdoor areas either available to them based on location or safety. There are many ways to explore nature and I invite and encourage any middle school aged learner interested in the natural world to join our club. 
Here is a sample of weekly Themes
Week 1, Week of January 13- Introduction to Nature Journals
Week 2, Week of January 20- Vegetation 
Week 3, Week of January 27- Animals 
Week 4, Week of February 3- Daylight 
Week 5, Week of February 10- Night Sky
Week 6, Week of February 17- Weather
Week 7, Week of February 24- Nature Journals through History