KWL Chart Maker

This tool will make an instant KWL diagram for you.

Directions:

Fill in the information in the section below. Once you hit Generate-KWL, you will be taken to a page that can be used as a template for helping learners strategically and effectively organize information. Instructions on using KWL as a teaching tool can be found in our How to Differentiate Instruction article. We also have a number of premade KWL theme worksheets.

What Is a KWL Diagram?

A KWL chart is a powerful tool that educators and students can use to help organize information and ideas. The chart typically has three sections: What I Know, What I Want to Know, and What I Learned.

Keep reading below to learn how a KWL chart lesson plan can benefit your students.

How Are They Used?

A KWL chart or diagram represents information students have or want to acquire regarding a particular topic. The chart consists of three sections.

What I Know

The first section, What I Know, records prior knowledge about a topic. It allows students to brainstorm everything they already know about the topic. It is an excellent way for them to activate prior knowledge and get their thoughts down on paper before doing any research.

What I Want to Know

The second section, What I Want to Know, is used to brainstorm questions about the topic. Students list down whatever queries arise in their minds upon hearing the topic. These questions can be used as a starting point for research or further discussion. It helps focus their learning and gives the teacher an idea of what areas need more explanation.

What I Learned

The third section, What I Learned, records new information after researching the topic or completing an activity related to the topic. Students graphically store the newly acquired information, which also helps them track the gaps they might need to fill.

What Are the Benefits of a KWL Chart Lesson Plan?

As students begin to research a topic, they often have more questions than answers. That's where a KWL chart comes in handy. Apart from that, a KWL chart assists students in numerous ways.

Organize Information

The curriculum is designed to scaffold the concept with each succeeding class. Noting down the prior knowledge students have and the newly gained knowledge helps students understand the connection between the topics in an orderly manner.

Identify Gaps in Understanding

With the help of a KWL chart, students can identify the parts where they need extra information or focus. They can track which aspects of the topic were challenging for them and why.

Develop Creative Problem Solving Skills

Once students identify the gaps in understanding, they can work creatively to fill them. Can their teacher solve their queries, or can internet research clear their doubts? Whatever the solution, students develop them independently because they're clear where they need guidance.

Track Progress

It is said that students get bored when they're not learning something new in the classroom. A KWL chart can aid them in tracking where they were at the beginning of the topic and how much new information and knowledge they have acquired over time.

Conclusion

A KWL chart lesson plan can always come in handy irrespective of your subject. KWL diagrams allow students to store their previous and newly acquired information graphically, side by side. It makes comparing both types of information more accessible, expanding their knowledge of the topic. It also enhances their problem-solving skills as they track their progress themselves and identify how to fill in the understanding gaps.

Let the effective teaching tool, the KWL diagram, aid you and your students in pushing boundaries and learning something new every day.