Word Clouds and Word Work

This week, students in grades 1, 3, and 4 created Wordles.  Students used a list of things they were thankful for in their word clouds.  Little did they know they were improving their writing, reading and vocabulary skills as well.

A research project has revealed that the incorporation of wordles into classrooms as an instructional tool resulted in the students using more varied vocabulary, more verb tenses, and more accurate grammar in their writing. In addition, feedback on students’ perceptions of wordle as a tool to help them improve their writing was very positive. From the instructor’s perspective, wordles enhanced the teaching of writing workshops and made them more effective and student-centered.

Other Uses of Word Clouds in the Classroom

• Vocabulary Development
• Language Learning
• Pre-reading Activity
• Brainstorming
• Reflection
• Assessment
• Define Main Ideas

Also, wordles helped the instructor to foster more student-centered discussion in writing in class and helped students to improve their writing.

How can we use wordle with your students?