Are you using word walls?
Many elementary teachers have been transitioning from Word Walls to Sound Walls. A Word wall is organized alphabetically using all 26 letters. Sound Walls, on the other hand, focus on phonemes and articulation whereas word walls focus on one word and letters.
Both walls are fantastic in their own ways but I have to say Word Walls are my favorite!
What is the point of a Word Wall?
The goal of Word Walls is to improve literacy skills in our students. They offer a visual representation of words used during your lessons and this reinforcement can be very helpful to students, especially if they’re struggling. Using Word Wall activities can get your students more engaged in learning about the words or spelling them.
Are Word Walls effective?
Word Walls are a great way to decorate your classroom but they’re only effective if students are using them. As teachers, we can take ownership of how effective they can be by including them in our lessons daily. You can use the words while chanting, clapping, tracing, and so much more.
Along with the other letters of the alphabet, I like to add /sh/ /ch/ /th/ and /wh/ to mine. If the wall is not being used and interactive with the students, it is really just wallpaper so don’t forget to incorporate it throughout the day!
If you’re looking for the perfect Word Wall Resource to set up your wall, I have you covered!
These Word Wall Editable Templates can be customized to suit your needs.
There are two sizes and 12 different colors to choose from including solid, primary, pastel, calm watercolors, and even black and white polka dots!
What is in this download?
Just open up the PowerPoint templates, click the “edit here” and add your own words with your favorite fonts in the colors that suit your needs.
There are 21 smaller word templates (6 to one page) and 21 longer word templates (3 to one page). You pick the colors you like to use so you can easily match them to your classroom decor.
So what about Sound Walls?
Sound walls are great if they are interactive! These are especially helpful if you have tricky words that you are working on with your students since it focuses on phonemes and articulation.
So why not choose both walls if you have the room?!
For more literacy activities or reading strategies, check out my post here!
What are your favorite strategies for using these walls in your classroom? Let me know in the comments!