KWL STRATEGY

1. Definition
The KWL chart was created by Donna Ogle in 1986. A KWL chart can be used
for all subjects in a whole group or small group atmosphere. The chart is a
comprehension strategy used to activate background knowledge prior to reading
and is completely student centered. The teacher divides a piece of chart paper into
three columns. The first column, 'K', is for what the students already know about a
topic. This step is to be completed before the reading. The next column, 'W', is for
students to list what they want to learn about the topic during the reading. This step
is also to be completed before the reading. The third column, 'L', is for what the
students learned from the reading. This step, of course, is done after finishing the
reading. The KWL chart can also be used in reading instruction at the beginning of
a new unit.
2. Purpose for using KWL charts
A teacher has many reasons for using KWLT charts in the classroom. First, a
KWL chart activates students' prior knowledge of the text or topic to be studied.
By asking students what they already know, students are thinking about prior
experiences or knowledge about the topic. Next, KWL charts set a purpose for the
unit. Students are able to add their input to the topic by asking them what they want
to know. Students then have a purpose for participating and engaging in the topic.
Also, using a KWL chart allows students to expand their ideas beyond the text
used in the classroom. By being aware of students' interests, the teacher has the
ability to create projects and assignments that the students will enjoy. A KWL
chart is a tool that can be used to drive instruction as well as guide student learning.
Study Tool
A KWL chart can be used as a study tool. This may work as a study tool for an
individual, group or entire class. It is a way to synthesize information into a visual aid.
The students are also able to keep track of what they have done and what they still
would like, or need to do.[3]
Specific Learners

KWL charts can be used with all students, however there are specific groups of
students that lend themselves quite well to this strategy, including visual learners,
young learners or ESL learners. As the chart is a graphic organizer it can aid visual
learners. The information is presented in a user friendly way that is visually
accessible.[4] Due to the visual nature of the KWL chart it can also be beneficial for
young learners such as preschoolers. Words may not be necessary and pictures can
be used in order to express the ideas within the chart.[5] As pictures can be used
alone or in conjunction with words the KWL chart may provide assistance for
students that are learning a second language.
3. Example of KWL charts

4. How to Create A KWL charts

A. "Know" Step:
1. Initiate discussion with the students about what they already know about the topic
of the text.
2. Start by using a brainstorm procedure. Ask the students to provide information
about where and how they learned the information.
3. Help them organize the brainstormed ideas into general categories.

B. "Want to Learn" Step:

1. Discuss with the students what they want to learn from reading an article.
2. Ask them to write down the specific questions in which they are more interested.
C. "What I Learned" Step:
1. Ask the students to write down what they learned from the reading.
2. Ask them to check the questions they had generated in the "Want to Learn" Step.