Decorating a Word Wall for an Elementary Classroom

Creating a word wall within an elementary classroom can be useful to both students and teachers. However, effectively using the word wall requires time and consistent effort. This begins with the creation and design. Teachers should create an attractive and eye-catching center to serve as the word wall. It's important to add new words on a weekly basis and refresh the look of the word wall every few weeks.

Things You'll Need

• Bulletin board paper Bulletin boarder Set of letters (upper and lower case)

Instructions

1. Select a large area. Make sure this area is visible for all students when sitting at their desks so they can reference the word wall as needed. If you have an area within the elementary classroom where students gather for reading or discussion, displaying the word wall near this area makes for an easy reference.

2. Obtain brightly colored bulletin board paper, border and a set of letters. Cover the selected wall area with the bulletin board paper, and outline the area with an attractive border. Make sure these will grab the students' attention. Attach the letters to the bulletin board paper in a systematic manner. It's a good idea to use the upper and lower case versions of the letters so the students will learn to recognize both.

3. Add five new words every week. Types of words to add include high-frequency words, rhyming words, and common prefixes and suffixes. Neatly print the new words in bold letters on paper or cards, and attach under the first letter of the word. It's important to discuss the words with the students as they are added to the word wall. Make sure students know the meaning of the word, how to pronounce the word, and give examples of the word used in sentences.

4. Use as a reference tool. Students can refer to the word wall for spelling and word recognition, while teachers can plan activities that reinforce the use of the words on the wall.
   One idea is a rhyming word activity. For example, teachers say this word begins with a "T" and rhymes with walk. Students look at the word wall under the letter "T" to find "Talk." Use the word wall to play a clue-like game. For example, if the word is puppy. Tell the students it has two syllables, five letters, and three letters are the same. Then use the word in a sentence, but say "blank" where the word should go.

5. Maintain and update the word wall. A key to the success of a word wall is updating it on a weekly basis. This can be a great tool for students and to use in the classroom, but only if it is properly maintained. Another idea is to swap out the borders every month with something referencing the month. For example, September can be back to school, October can be Halloween, and November can be Thanksgiving. Simply adding a few die-cuts or interesting posters will freshen up the word wall.