Cross-Curricular Word Wall
Expanding Vocabulary and Spelling in the Content Areas (Virtual Tour)
Stage of Literacy Development:
Stage 3: Literacy for GrowthAges:
7-12
Grade Range:
3rd 4th 5th 6thFood Groups:
Primary: Vocabulary, Spelling & Word Study Secondary: Classroom Organization & Time Management
Transcript
In 3rd and 4th grade, words that are chosen for the word wall are generally words that are more difficult for students to spell such as homophones, which they mix up. On the Word Wall I put up the word as well as a small definition or sentence for the word so that the students can use that in their own work to make sure they haven't mixed up the meaning of the word. The legend shows class tricky words: math words, language words, and science words in different colors. That way, students can look at the word on the word wall and know what subject area it belongs to. Along with the Word Wall that is meant for the entire class, students also have an individual word wall that we call our Word Collector. This Word Collector is pasted inside the student's Writer's Notebook where we write words that they are having trouble with. So it may be words that the other students don't need but this student is still having trouble with. They can then access them at any time to be able to help with their spelling. They also use them for their Word Work.
Related References
Additional Link:
Reading Rockets, Word Walls: http://www.readingrockets.org/strategies/word_walls
Activity Objective
The goal of Cross-Curricular Word Wall: Expanding Vocabulary and Spelling in the Content Areas (Virtual Tour) is to build both spelling knowledge and understanding of word meanings. The words chosen include difficult everyday words such as commonly used homophones, as well as words specific to subject areas taught in the classroom. Students also create personal word collections unique to their own needs.
Quick Tips
Additional Comments:
- Use a color legend. Each color will represent a different subject. - Add a word challenge. Encourage your students to use key subject terminology during classroom discussion and keep track of their achievements as a whole class.
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