Wordboards

Wordboards, also known as word walls or vocabulary walls, are a visual display of words and their meanings that are prominently placed in a classroom or learning environment. The primary purpose of a wordboard is to support literacy development by exposing students to a rich vocabulary and providing them with a readily accessible resource for reference. They can be particularly beneficial for younger learners, English language learners, and students who benefit from multi-sensory learning.

The content of a wordboard can vary depending on the age and learning objectives of the students. Common elements include frequently used words, sight words, thematic vocabulary related to a current unit of study, or words that are challenging for students to spell or understand. The words are typically displayed with clear definitions, illustrations, or example sentences to enhance comprehension.

Wordboards serve multiple pedagogical functions. They encourage independent word recognition and spelling, foster vocabulary acquisition, and promote a print-rich environment that normalizes the use of written language. Teachers can actively engage students with their wordboards through various activities, such as word hunts, spelling games, or using the words in writing tasks. The dynamic nature of wordboards allows them to be updated regularly, reflecting the evolving needs and learning progress of the students, making them a flexible and effective tool in the educational setting.