The K-W-L lets active readers make predictions about what they will be reading before they start. Prior knowledge gives students interest about the topic they will be studying. I use this strategy with my kindergartners. The K-W-L is a three coloum chart labeling what they know, what they want to know and eventually what they will learn. When the students have finished their reading, the third column is foscused on what they have learned. When the K-W-L grid is complete the students bring together their information that they have studied and calloborate together brainstorming information. The advantages provide teachers with students background knowledge about a topic. Also students can make predictions about what they will be reading. This stragedy can be used with all grades and subjects.Students usually retain informatioin better if theyknow what they are looking for in their readings. This activity and strategy motivates reluctant readers to feel confident while answering questions in a group setting due to prior knowledge.
Reference
Buehl, D. (1995). Classroom strategies for interactive learning.
Madison, WI: Wisconsin State Reading Association.
Robin Hand