Definition: Word Walls are a literacy tool used mostly in elementary school classrooms. As part of a reading instruction program, teachers designate one wall (or part of a wall) in the classroom for displaying commonly used vocabulary and/or sight words in large print so that all students can read the words from their desks. The students can then refer to the wall during literacy exercises. The large visual nature of Word Walls helps students to naturally gain familiarity with these high frequency words, as well as to gain reinforcement of vocabulary.
Word Walls should be interactive and dynamic tools. This means that students can suggest words to add to the wall throughout the school year. As new words are learned in class, the teacher should also initiate additions to the Word Wall.
