We describe an active learning exercise intended to improve undergraduate students' understanding of statistics by grounding complex concepts within a meaningful, applied context. Students in a journal excerpt activity class read brief excerpts of statistical reporting from published research articles, answered factual and interpretive questions, and discussed their responses with the instructor and peers. Students in this journal excerpt activity class outperformed students in a demographically equivalent standard class on exams. We discuss the potential benefits of this activity in terms of highlighting the connection between statistical concepts and real-world applications, fostering engagement with the material, and improving student performance. We also make suggestions for adapting this activity to other courses and disciplines. (Contains 2 tables.)