Vocabulary mapping offers students the opportunity to make connections between words, concepts, ideas, and illustrations to increase comprehension or check for understanding. Vocabulary mapping is a great resource for struggling readers and can help them learn vocabulary words a little easier.
I first learned about vocabulary mapping from EL Education's Protocol's guide. It's a perfect way to use vocabulary cards and pictures found within your curriculums or leverage an existing word wall.
Literacy Skills We are Building
There are many unique skills being built when you use vocabulary mapping, such as making connections, explaining thinking, summarizing text, speaking in full sentences, and practicing speaking and listening skills.
Examples of Vocabulary Mapping in Action
Identifying and figuring out what an unknown word means can be challenging for students. Using vocabulary mapping and giving them connections allows them to see the word within a bigger picture. Students must explain the connection between the words or concepts, often by providing a definition in their own words.
The teacher is a monitor or a guide of the lesson, while the students are doing the teaching and using the interactive graphic organizer to learn vocabulary, definitions, and specific concepts within the subject area.
Some of the best times to use vocabulary mapping are with professional learning, science and social studies concepts, math, and ELA passages.
Online Alternative For Word Maps
You can easily turn your vocabulary map into an interactive online piece using Google Jamboard, which allows students to collaborate and add to the board, even if they are in different locations.
Adapting Vocabulary Mapping to Fit Your Needs
There are many ways to adapt an interactive word wall to fit your grade level or need, such as using it for getting to know you activities, group puzzles, or holiday activities. It's simple to set up and can be reused year after year.
Start Seeing The Benefits In Your Classroom
The development of your own interactive word wall is easy and requires only basic materials. The knowledge your students will gain is incredible, and you will find ways to include vocabulary maps in every subject you can.