Word Walls

Since mathematics is considered another language because it has terms that have specific meanings, I've always had a word wall for every class.   Unfortunately, too many people do not think about using a word wall in mathematics since it is normally associated with English. 

A word wall in mathematics is a good way to identify the words and their meanings that are important for students to know and learn.  It is the vocabulary they need to have so they can discuss mathematics.  

The words that are posted are the ones associated with the current section.  A teacher should introduce the words with meanings in class before they are posted on the wall.  The words posted should include a visual clue to trigger the memory such as in the photo to the left.

The wall might is a great way to incorporate scaffolding for all students by creating context for much of the vocabulary.  For instance, if you are teaching about simple interest, you can have the words simple interest, the formula for simple interest with each variable identified as to it's meaning, with an example at the end.  Most teachers have students who are English Language Learners, who have always struggled with math, or who end up needing extra assistance in class.

A word wall in mathematics should include more information because so many words are associated with a formula.  For instance, we talk about the Pythagorean theorem and assume students should know the formula of a^2 + b^2 = c^2 is one definition of it.  They also need the visual so they know what a, b, and c represent.  So instead of just listing the words "Pythagorean theorem", they need everything associated with it so they understand the context.  

If word walls are set up with as much information as possible associated with each word, it provides an immediate reference for students so they become more important.  If you are using the Pythagorean theorem to solve a ladder against the wall problems and a student doesn't remember it, they can look over at the word wall, read up on it quickly without having to ask the teacher.  

Furthermore, it allows the teacher to point to the material rather than falling back on the "You should have learned it three years ago." comment.  Sometimes students didn't learn it the first time, or the second time and by having everything on the wall, they have immediately scaffolding and support available.  If a student asks about something, the teacher can refer to the material on the word wall. 

In addition, maintaining a word wall shows students that the teacher cares about the students and their learning. When parents come in for teacher-parent meetings, the parents see that you care since they can see the word wall.  The word wall also provides automatic connections to previous topics.  A student might night always remember how to set up a coordinate grid and having it on the wall allows students to do a quick check and it exposes students to the topic another time thus helping them learn it better.

A math word wall is also considered a low floor, high ceiling activity allowing students different entry points depending on their need.  By providing visual information with more limited verbal explanations, students with learning disabilities, who are English Language Learners, or are afraid of math, are all able to access the material.

On Wednesday, we'll explore different ways to create a word wall in your math class.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.