Scientific observations are fundamental to the work of scientists. However, observations are often misunderstood by students as a single step in the scientific method. Through the development of the Nature Note, a submission type for the GMRI’s online journal of middle school environmental research, students are able deepen their understanding of key science practices. Students combine background knowledge to enhance observation and communicate their findings in writing. Using vernal pools as a focus, this one hour workshop will provide classroom-ready materials to support students in observing, communicating, and publishing in the 6th edition of Findings from the Field.