INTERACTIVE Word Walls - An integral piece when creating a print-rich environment

The Research Behind Vocabulary Instruction Background knowledge and academic vocabulary are strong indicators of how students learn subject area content. Student must encounter words in context more than once to learn them (an average of 6 times). One of the best ways to learn a new term is to associate an image with it. Direct vocabulary instruction enhances students’ ability to read and learn subject matter content. Rote memorization of definitions is ineffective Research supports the following process to teach new vocabulary: Teacher describes the new term Students explain the new term in their own words Students draw a picture to represent the new term, engaging the non-linguistic learning styles Students use the words in other contexts Students discuss the terms with peers Students participate in vocabulary games INTERACTIVE WORD WALLS support the latest research in effective vocabulary instruction. Classroom Instruction that Works: Research-Based Strategies for Increasing Student AchievementClassroom Instruction that Works: Research-Based Strategies for Increasing Student Achievement Marzano, Pickering, and Pollock A Six-Step Process to Teaching Vocabulary ascd.org

Traditional vs. Interactive Word Walls INTERACTIVE An organized display of words Effectively supports vocabulary, spelling, and other academic standards Enhances learning Activities allow multiple encounters with words Non-evaluative opportunities to practice using the words Words are added to the word wall gradually Words are removed from the word wall when students know them TRADITIONAL A random display of words Many words are added at one time Words are never removed Words are placed on the word wall before students are exposed to the words through teaching Both types provide a visual to aid in vocabulary retention

Three Types of Word Walls Thematic Word Wall  All words are related to a specific theme or unit of study Alphabetic Word Wall  Words from various topics are arranged alphabetically Review Word Wall  Includes words that were removed from a thematic or alphabetic word wall but require further review

A Thematic Word Wall Be selective when choosing words to add to your word wall.

Thematic Word Walls

A Thematic Word Wall Display words on a bulletin board. Add definitions and pictures to make your word wall more attractive.

Use the Door Placing the words on your door will remind you to review before your students leave the classroom.

Alphabetic Word Wall Alphabetizing the words on your word wall will keep them organized. If space is an issue, use a display board with word pockets.

DEVICES IN POETRY AND PROSE Alphabetic WORD WALL A Alliteration Assonance BC Consonance D Dialogue E F First Person Point of View GH Hyperbole I Imagery J KLM Metaphor Mood NO Onomatopoeia P Personification Poetry Prose QR Repetition Rhyme Rhyme Scheme S Simile Stanza Symbol T Theme Third Person Point of View UVWX-YZ

Review Word Walls This is a caterpillar If space is an issue, consider the use of magnets to add the words to your ceiling! When students have control of the words, this teacher adds them to a caterpillar for constant review.

Give your students another opportunity to review the words by placing them on a wall in the hallway.

Be creative! A visually attractive word wall will catch your students’ attention.

Student-Developed Word Walls Students take ownership of their learning environment when they are allowed to help you create word walls. Also, this is a great way to add a touch of creativity.

Creating an Interactive Word Wall Use an area in the classroom that is visible to all students: Bulletin Board Cabinet Door Classroom Door Project Board White Board Ceiling (check with your principal) Make the words easily accessible: Masking Tape Magnets Sticky Tack Tacks Push Pins Velcro strips Rubber Cement Use any of the following: Index Cards Large Post-It Notes Sentence Strips Construction Paper Card Stock Window Markers Add words gradually, only when you encounter the words in your teaching Be selective when adding the words. What is essential to your learning objectives? Remove the words from the word wall when your students have “control” over the words

Color-code the words, either using colored markers for lettering or colored paper.  Consider using a different color for parts of speech, frequently misspelled words, subjects, topics discussed during different class periods, etc. Laminate the words on your word wall. Use a word processing program instead of writing the words on cards or post-it notes. The variations above are optional. Hand-written word walls are very successful!

8 Keys to a Successful Word Wall 1.Make it interactive.  How can students use words in a variety of activities? 2.Be selective.  How much space do you really have? 3.Review words regularly.  What motivational games and instructional strategies could you link to word review? 4.Avoid commercially prepared word walls.  Will your students enjoy contributing to their learning environment? 5.Take advantage of teaching moments.  What words are essential in learning the standards or new concept? 6.Remove the words!  Do your students already have “control” over these words? Has your purpose changed? 7.Consider the content of your classroom.  What is essential to your learning objectives (standards, themes, etc.)? 8.Model the use of the word wall during writing.  How could you demonstrate the use of academic words in reading response?