Anchor Charts

The focus of our last blog was the use of mnemonic devices to support academic success. This week we will expand on this concept with the introduction of anchor charts. I love that anchor charts are considered a general education strategy to support typical learners. As we have discussed before, most individuals benefit from visual supports. Individuals with an autism spectrum are especially responsive to visual strategies as indicated by studies on the brain.

Anchor charts build a culture of literacy in the classroom, as teachers and students make thinking visible by recording content, strategies, processes, cues, and guidelines during the learning process.

• Posting anchor charts keeps relevant and current learning accessible to students to remind them of prior learning and to enable them to make connections as new learning happens.

• Students refer to the charts and use them as tools as they answer questions, expand ideas, or contribute to discussions and problem-solving in class.

 

Elementary Examples:

 

Middle School Examples:

For more information and resources on anchor charts, go to the following websites:

• http://fortheloveoffirst.blogspot.com/2013/05/printable-anchor-charts-are-here.html
• http://www.teachingwithamountainview.com/p/anchor-charts.html

Special thanks to the following teachers that have been generous in sharing their most amazing anchor charts.

Mrs. Gonzalez: Freedom Elementary, Southside ISD

Mrs. Mills: Pleasanton Elementary, Pleasanton ISD

Ms. Shamon: Jackson Middle School, North East ISD

 

By Lisa Rogers