Word walls are a valuable resource for scaffolding vocabulary in both elementary and secondary classrooms. In elementary classrooms word walls can consist of sight words or spelling words. In secondary classrooms word walls can focus on subject-specific terminology, such as geometry vocabulary in math class or figurative language in English Language Arts class.
No matter how the word wall is organized, the key to success is to make it interactive. There are many way to use word walls, from full lessons to brief exercises. Check out these great ideas for how to use your classroom word wall to engage students in learning.
Identify which words to display based on the student’s needs and the content to be covered.
Identify which words to display based on the student’s needs and the content to be covered.
Display the word wall where the student can see it and read the words from their desk.
Display the word wall where the student can see it and read the words from their desk.
Teach the student how to use the word wall and model using it in a variety of contexts.
Teach the student how to use the word wall and model using it in a variety of contexts.
Practice by referring to and using the word wall daily.
Practice by referring to and using the word wall daily.
Update the word wall. Add new words intentionally and remove words that have been mastered.
Update the word wall. Add new words intentionally and remove words that have been mastered.
Monitor and record the student's progress and effectiveness using the word wall.
Monitor and record the student's progress and effectiveness using the word wall.
Provide specific feedback to the student about their progress.
Provide specific feedback to the student about their progress.
Share progress and effectiveness with the student, the educational team, and the families.
Share progress and effectiveness with the student, the educational team, and the families.
