What does a KWL chart help students do?

A KWL chart is a powerful instructional tool that facilitates active engagement in the learning process. It consists of three sections: what the student knows (K), what they want to know (W), and what they have learned (L). This structure promotes the activation of prior knowledge by encouraging students to recall and articulate what they already know about a topic before diving into new content. This initial reflection helps students make connections between their existing knowledge and the new material being introduced.

As the learning progresses, students can also use the chart to monitor their learning by filling in what they have learned in the 'L' section. This not only reinforces their understanding but also provides an opportunity for self-assessment and reflection on how their knowledge has expanded. By actively engaging with the information in this way, students become more invested in their learning journey, leading to better retention and understanding of the subject matter.

In contrast, while organizing thoughts before a test, analyzing exam questions, or summarizing a book can be useful activities, they do not capture the same breadth of prior knowledge activation and learning monitoring that the KWL chart specifically addresses.