Card

Anchor Charts

In this strategy, student input is used to create an in-the-moment poster about a given topic. The Anchor Chart is then hung on the wall for later reference.

Anchor Charts

Summary

Students and their teacher work together to create a poster about a specific topic or concept, including pertinent mnemonics or other helpful contextual reminders. This strategy works best when students create the poster collaboratively, even though pre-made Anchor Charts can be found online.

Procedure

Determine the topic of focus and share it with students.
Have students brainstorm what they know about a topic and how they remember it.
Allow students to share out so the entire class can come to a consensus on what to include on the Anchor Chart.
Make the chart and hang it somewhere in the room for students to reference later. The best Anchor Charts are visually strong and include a mix of words, pictures, and diagrams. Think outside the bulleted list!
As an optional, additional activity, students can work in groups to make their own Anchor Charts and hang them up around the room.

Pecaski McLennan, D. M. (2009). Ten ways to create a more democratic classroom. YC Young Children, 64(4), 100–101.