A multi-column grid formation with headings at the top. Students fill out the chart or table during the lecture, video, or reading, extracting only the specified information.Â
When a lecture or text follows a repetitive structure or when students are expected only to extract certain elements from a source for research or other purposes, charts and tables effectively focus students’ note-taking. These can be frustrating for students if the content deviates from the pattern.
STEPS:
INTRODUCE THE CHART/TABLE AND ITS PURPOSE: Â Explain to students that they will be using a chart or table to organize information in a clear and structured way, helping them to compare and analyze key details relevant to the lesson.
MODEL HOW TO CREATE A TABLE/CHART:Â Demonstrate how to create a table or chart, showing how to set up rows and columns and label them according to the categories relevant to the lesson.
FILL IN THE CHART TOGETHER: Â Fill in the table or chart with students as you work through the information, guiding them step-by-step on how to place details in the appropriate rows and columns.
GUIDE STUDENTS AS THEY CREATE THEIR OWN TABLES: Ask students to create their own tables or charts by labeling columns and rows based on the lesson’s structure and encourage them to begin filling in the table with the provided information.
PROVIDE TIME FOR INDEPENDENT WORK: Give students time to complete their tables independently, ensuring they understand how to organize the information clearly and logically.
MONITOR AND OFFER SUPPORT: Walk around the classroom to provide individual support, helping students who may have questions or need guidance on organizing their tables.
DISCUSS THE COMPLETED TABLES:Â After students have filled in their tables, lead a class discussion where students can share their tables and explain how they organized the information.
USE THE TABLE FOR ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION: Encourage students to analyze the information in their tables, asking them to look for patterns, trends, or connections between the details they’ve organized.
ENCOURAGE STUDENTS TO USE TABLE FOR FUTURE LESSONS: Remind students to use tables and charts in future lessons to help them structure their notes, make comparisons, and understand complex information more clearly.
REVIEW THE TABLE FOR REINFORCEMENT:Â At the end of the lesson, review the completed tables with the class, reinforcing the importance of using this method to organize and study the material effectively.