Guidelines for Effective High Frequency Word Walls
In primary grades these displays are often arranged alphabetically so students can easily locate specific words. Students have to be able to see the word wall from a distance in order to use it effectively and engage in word wall activities.
Think about…
- Location of the word wall
- Size of the words
- Spacing of words
- Background
Do all of these enhance or inhibit visibility?
The high frequency word wall should be built with students, adding 3-5 grade-level appropriate words each week while engaging students in meaningful activities with the words.
Remember that if students are going to use the vocabulary to support their writing, they need more than simple sight words. They also need verbs, adjectives and content words.
Color coding the words by content area provides students with visual cues so they can locate and use the terms.
Once students know the words, they can be retired or placed in learning centers for review activities. For those students who still need the support, they can have individual “word wall folders.”
Use the arrows below the image to view all of the examples.
