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A word wall (or word bank) is a collection of words displayed either alphabetically or in subject-specific clusters, in large visible letters on a wall or other display surface readily visible to students. The word wall is designed to be an interactive tool for students and contains a variety of words that can be used during writing and reading in any subject area.
PREPARATION:
Teacher- or student-created words on cards
Alphabet and anchor words
Color-coded words and added graphics or pictures (e.g., verbs and nouns of different colors or prefixes/suffixes denoted by color change)
Tape or magnets to attach words as they are added to the word wall
STEPS:
Set up an area that is readily visible to the class with either alphabetical anchors or a subject-specific display area of key academic language for math, science, or social studies.
Establish the process of adding words to the wall that are relevant for the lessons.
Either the teacher or students can add to the wall once a process is established.
Grade-level sight words that are expected to be spelled correctly can be added to the word wall throughout the school year.
Pictures, either from media resources or drawn by teachers/students, can also be added to the word wall.
Point out the word wall as a resource during independent writing time.
Ensure that students interact with the word wall words frequently, whether it be to affix a prefix or suffix, or to play word games.
VARIATION:
To adapt this lesson for primary classes:
Differentiate by reading levels and grade-level expectations.
Use the word wall during independent reading time to point out words on the wall, or if reading level permits, have students read them to a partner.
Use picture cues and/or graphic illustrations to highlight meaning.
EXTENSION:
To increase rigor, students can maintain a personal word wall.
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