Students are using the tools of scientists when keeping a science notebook. They are also keeping track of their thinking and the changes to their original ideas. To bring students' existing ideas out for examination, the author implemented a "quick-write," which entails asking an open-ended question and having the students write all they know in three minutes. When the quick-writes are finished, the students discuss their thoughts with a partner or in small groups. In this article, the author shares how science notebooks can become a laboratory of words that support conversations and continued inquiry. (Contains 3 figures and 8 resources.)