Customize KWL Templates
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What is a KWL/KWHL Worksheet?
KWL stands for KNOW, WONDER, LEARN. An optional H can also be added for HOW. KWL chart templates can come in many different formats, but the most common is a three-column chart. It is a type of graphic organizer that helps students learn to organize their thoughts and learning about a particular topic. KWL/KWHL worksheets are a great way to encourage active learning and engage learners with a new topic. They can be used across a variety of subjects and grade levels, and can be adapted to suit the needs and interests of different learners.
Why Are They Important and How Are They Best Used?
If you are looking for a versatile and engaging way to stimulate background knowledge and encourage critical thinking, then KWL chart graphic organizers can be a useful tool for you. Whether you're teaching kindergarten or high school, in math, science, or social studies. KWL worksheet templates are a great way to get your class excited about learning. With blank a KWL chart template, you can easily create custom worksheets that fit your unique teaching needs. By filling in a KWL chart template as a small group or whole class, your students can reflect on what they already know and what they WANT to know, fostering a sense of motivation and curiosity that is essential for successful learning. By providing a framework for organizing and synthesizing information, KWL worksheets are designed to help improve retention and understanding of new material. So why wait? Sign up to start making KWL charts and templates today and start engaging your students in a fun way that is also effective.
Creative KWL Worksheet Ideas
Here are some creative ways to make KWHL/KWL charts and KWL chart example templates that go beyond traditional fill-in cards:
- KWHL Card Game: In this version of the activity, each set of cards will have a photo, fact, or activity image related to the topic you are covering in class. Students will draw a card at random and use it to fill in their KWHL chart. For example, if the topic is the Solar System, a photo card might show a picture of Jupiter, a fact card might provide information about the planet's size, and an activity card might prompt learners to design a model of the Solar System. Learners can work individually or in small groups to complete their charts.
- Concept Card Game: In this version of the activity, each set of cards will have a different concept related to the topic you are studying. For example, if the topic is the Water Cycle, one set of cards might have concepts like "evaporation," "condensation," and "precipitation." Students will draw a card at random and use it to fill in their KWL chart template. This version of the activity can be used to reinforce key concepts and vocabulary, and can be adapted for different levels of knowledge and understanding.
In all of these versions of the activity, the cards can be customized to fit your specific topic or subject matter, and can be used to provide a fun and engaging way to explore and deepen their understanding of the material. You can incorporate these fun activities into your lesson plans in whatever way you like.
Creative Ideas by Grade Level
Elementary School Students
Picture Card Game: For younger grades, create a set of picture cards that depict different concepts related to the subject areas you are focusing on. For example, if the topic is animals, one set of cards might show different types of habitats or animal behaviors. Students can use the pictures to fill in their KWHL charts. Alternatively, you can have kids work in pairs or small groups to match the pictures to the correct concept or vocabulary word. Each pair or group can then share their completed KWL charts with the class.
Word Card Game: For older elementary grades, create a set of word cards that include key vocabulary words related to the topic you are studying. Students can use the words to fill in their KWHL charts, and can also use them to create their own sentences or stories. Another approach is to have the class work in small groups to use the words to create sentences or short stories. They can then share their creations with the class and discuss how the words relate to the topic they are studying.
Middle School Students
Video Card Game: For middle schoolers, create a set of video cards that include short video clips related to the topic you are studying. Students can watch the videos to gather information and fill in their KWHL charts.
Task Card Game: For older middle school grades, create a set of task cards that include different types of activities related to the topic you are studying. For example, if the topic is the Civil War, one set of cards might include tasks like "write a letter from a soldier's perspective," "research a famous battle and create a timeline," or "create a propaganda poster for the Union or Confederate side." Students can choose a card at random and use it to fill in their KWHL charts.
High School Students
Debate Card Game: For high schoolers, create a set of debate cards that include different controversial topics related to the topic you are studying. Students can use the cards to prompt discussion and fill in their KWHL charts with their own arguments and ideas.
Research Paper Card Game: For older high school learners, create a set of research paper cards that include different research topics related to the topic you are studying. Students can choose a card at random and use it as the basis for their own research paper, filling in their KWHL charts as they gather information and form their arguments.
These are just a few examples of how the activity can be adapted for different grade levels, but there are many other variations possible depending on the specific topic and learning objectives.
Why are KWL Worksheets Effective?
KWL worksheets are effective for several reasons:
- Activate Prior Knowledge: By starting with what kids already know about a topic, a KWL chart template helps to activate prior knowledge and establish a framework for new information. This can improve retention and understanding of new material as students write what they already know.
- Encourage Curiosity and Engagement: KWL templates provide a way for students to express their curiosity and interest in a topic, which can increase motivation and engagement with the learning process.
- Provide a Structure for Organizing Information: By breaking down the learning process into three distinct stages (what I know, what I want to know, and what I want to learn), KWL worksheets provide a structure for organizing and synthesizing information. This can improve retention and understanding of new material.
- Can be Adapted to Suit Different Learners: A KWL chart template is simple, easy to use, and can be adapted to suit the needs and interests of different learners. For example, younger grades might use pictures or drawings to represent their ideas, while older learners might use more complex language or write longer responses.
- Promote Collaboration and Discussion: KWL worksheets can be used as a starting point for class discussion and collaboration, which can help to build a shared understanding of the topic and promote critical thinking.
Overall, a blank KWL chart template is effective because they provide a simple, yet powerful tool for to engage students and promote active learning. They are a great resource to encourage curiosity, provide a structure for organizing information, and promote collaboration and discussion, all of which can improve retention and understanding of new material.
KWL Worksheets With Storyboard That
Looking for an easy and effective way to create a KWL template for your classroom? You won’t spend much time trying to figure out how to create a KWL chart template, instead, with our intuitive KWL creator, you can quickly and easily create custom KWHL charts and tables that fit your unique teaching needs. Whether you're looking for a KWHL chart template or a KWHL chart example to get you started, we've got you covered. And with our easy-to-use storyboard creator, you can customize every element of your KWHL worksheet to make it truly your own. Best of all, you can save and print your KWL chart template right from our platform, so you'll have everything you need to engage your class and promote active learning. So why wait? Sign up for Storyboard That today and start creating your own custom KWL templates and more printables in minutes!
How to Create a KWL Chart
Choose One of the Premade Templates
We have color, black and white, portrait, or landscape templates. Take a look at our example for inspiration!
Click on "Copy Template"
Once you do this, you will be directed to the storyboard creator.
Give Your Worksheet a Name!
Be sure to call it something related to the topic so that you can easily find it in the future.
Edit Your Worksheet
This is where you will include directions, specific questions and images, and make any aesthetic changes that you would like. The options are endless!
Click "Save and Exit"
When you are finished with your worksheet, click this button in the lower right hand corner to exit your storyboard.
Next Steps
From here you can print, download as a PDF, attach it to an assignment and use it digitally, and more!
Even More Storyboard That Resources and Free Printables
- Circle Chart Worksheet
- Make KWL Chart Reason for the Seasons
- Anchor: Food KWL Chart
- Anchor: T-Chart Worksheet Templates
- Blank Worksheets
Happy Creating!
Frequently Asked Questions about KWL Worksheets
What are some tips for using KWL worksheets effectively?
To use KWL worksheets effectively, there are several tips to keep in mind. First, it's important to make sure the KWL chart is relevant to the topic being covered and age-appropriate for the students. Additionally, it's recommended to introduce the KWL chart at the beginning of a new unit or lesson and explain its purpose to the students. It's also important to allow time for group discussion and sharing of ideas during the "W" section of the chart. Finally, it's a good idea to revisit the chart throughout the unit to add new information and reflect on what has been learned.
Overall, using KWL worksheets effectively requires thoughtful planning and implementation, but can be a powerful tool for engaging students and promoting active learning.
Are there any potential drawbacks or limitations to using KWL and KWHL charts in the classroom?
Yes, there are some potential drawbacks and limitations to using KWL and KWHL charts in the classroom. One limitation is that the charts rely heavily on the students' prior knowledge, which may not be accurate or complete. This can lead to misconceptions or gaps in understanding that can be difficult to correct later on. Additionally, some students may struggle with identifying what they want to know or may have difficulty formulating questions about the topic. Another potential limitation is that the charts can be time-consuming to complete, particularly if used frequently. This may be a concern for teachers who have limited time to cover the necessary curriculum. Furthermore, some students may find the process of filling out the charts tedious or boring, particularly if they have to do it repeatedly.
However, these potential drawbacks can be addressed by using KWL and KWHL charts in conjunction with other teaching strategies, such as class discussions, interactive activities, and formative assessments. Additionally, teachers can provide guidance and support to students as they complete the charts, helping to ensure that their prior knowledge is accurate and complete. By using KWL and KWHL charts in a thoughtful and strategic way, they can be effective tools for promoting student engagement, motivation, and learning.
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