Student-Driven Vocabulary Study

This was an interesting overview of how to create an interactive word wall. I was especially interested in how student-driven the word wall would be--with students collecting materials or cr... See More

This was an interesting overview of how to create an interactive word wall. I was especially interested in how student-driven the word wall would be--with students collecting materials or creating small organizers to teach the meaning of the words. The idea of students collecting physical examples of the words is really neat. I do wonder a bit about the space required--even though it is addressed in the article. I honestly worry about whether or not I'd be able to rotate the word wall as frequently as necessary.

Taking Word Walls to the Next Level

This is a great spin on the typical classroom word wall; in this article the authors describe several examples of interactive word walls that can grow throughout the year. The interactive as... See More

This is a great spin on the typical classroom word wall; in this article the authors describe several examples of interactive word walls that can grow throughout the year. The interactive aspect of the walls allows for differentiation, identification of misconceptions, and helps students make connections by linking concepts concrete examples. The possibilities are endless and the authors do an excellent job with describing how to create and utilize word walls in the classroom. Several pictures of word walls are included which will act as a springboard of ideas. Although this article talks about classroom walls, the possibilities of extending interactive walls into hallway walls is an intriguing way to employ often under-utilized areas to extend student learning. What a great way to address Common Core standards in science!