Eggbert’s chapter on Inquiry and Problem Solving mentions the use of a KWL chart as a solution to both inquiry and problem solving. In my class the chart is modified thanks to a training on Expository Text I attending. Instead of writing down what students know, we write down what they think they know about any topic. After we begin reading students go back to see if any of their statements was present in their reading. If it was, students place a plus sign next to their thoughts. If what the student thought about a topic turned out to be erred, then they write a minus sign next to it. If the thoughts addressed not addressed at all by the reading, students then circle it. In the second column students write in new information such as important and interesting facts about the topic. In the last column students write what they still want to learn about the topic.
Some of the skills this process involves is the connection of and synthesis of background knowledge to the text. In addition students actively search for what their information in the text and evaluate whether they are right or wrong. Lastly, students continue to ask questions about the topic, this lends itself to extra-credit if the student wants to research the topic more.
Perhaps podcasting can be used as a tool where students use their background knowledge to tell about a topic. Then listeners can comment on the podcast and provide feedback for students on where to take their research.
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2 comments:
Hola, Lizardo. Thanks for reminding us that the very simple tool of a KWL chart is still so useful, and that there are so many different variations and extensions on the classic model. I used to do KWL-style inquiries through discussion and questions before, during, and after reading, but I only discovered the actual KWL chart about 7 years ago. It is an obvious choice for teaching children, and I am sure that adult ELLs would find it useful as well.
And, after the reading and the follow-up chart investigation, then the students can research what's in the column for what they still want to know on the internet. Cool.
Hi Lizardo,
I love the variation to the KWL chart you described! What you "Think" you know. Certainly much different from what people actually do know. And the +/- system to review it at the end is great too. Thanks for sharing this.
-Dr. Wright
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