They often include multiple-meaning words, descriptive vocabulary, and use in multiple subjects. Academic Vocabulary (often Tier 2): Words that are used across content areas and domain.These words are often nouns, verbs, adjectives, and basic high-frequency words. Sight Words (Tier 1): Words that are frequently heard in multiple contexts.So, as you consider what words to include on your word wall, ask – What can I commit to regularly supporting and will help students be most successful. BUT these things are only true if they are being regularly referenced, added-to, and used by students. Routine: Am I taking regular opportunities to model using the word wall in academic conversations and in writing mini-lessons? Do students use the word wall routinely to support their conversations and class work? In what ways does our class word wall extend and deepen the opportunities to learn, converse, and writing?.Ever-changing: Is our word wall a living thing? Are words being added, removed, and/or traded out based on student need, request, and time of the year?.Accessibility: Are my students able to easily see and read words on the word wall? Are the words organized in a way that makes sense based on how words were chosen (topic, theme, book, alphabetical, etc)? Can students see themselves and/or their needs in the words chosen to be included on our word wall?.So, what makes a word wall worth the effort?
Save your investment of time/energy/wall space into something that will actually impact student learning. Space, time, and energy in our classrooms is limited! So, when deciding to invest more into our physical spaces, we need to ask – How will my students get the most impact from this choice? If a word wall stays empty all year or if it is never looked at, then let’s not pretend. This organization and frequent referencing of words supports students using this vocabulary in their own writing and conversations. Word walls can help students mental organize, sort, and make connections between words. We want all students working hard to become the best readers, writers, and mathematicians and definitely doesn’t mean sitting for 10-15 minutes with a hand raised.Īdditionally, RL.4/RI.4 in our Common Core and Kentucky Academic Standards include vocabulary acquisition as a part of the 10 anchor standards (i.e. While students are writing during workshop or working during work on writing, we – as teachers – are conferring, teaching, and giving feedback to students.
When stuck, frustration, or need inspiration, students have references and go-to resources outside of the teacher. Over time and when explicitly taught (and continually referenced), word walls can help students maintain writing stamina and build independence.
Th roughout the post, you’ll find Amazon Affiliate links, which means Amazon tosses a few nickels my way if you purchase something through that link, at no extra cost to you, that helps to keep my corner of cyber-space running and helps fund giveaways! Why a Word Wall? Word walls and vocabulary walls within our classrooms and schools can offer students support in using, organizing, and connecting language. From social-emotional learning to science to requesting food in the Dinning Room, vocabulary is a critical part of communicating. Language matters in every content-area and subject we teach.