An illustrated word wall can support a Nativity retell when the Christian Christmas story is part of the lesson. Choose a few words from the part you read and show children how to use the pictures to find them.
At a glance
Teach vocabulary in the story, then use the cards to label or retell an event.
1. Choose words from one scene
Pick a few people, objects, or places from the passage. Name the pictures during or after the reading.
2. Look for a matching picture
Show one card and ask children where it belongs in the story. Return to the picture or text for a clue.
3. Sort a small group
Group cards by people, places, or objects. Ask how a card fits its group.
4. Use the student dictionary
Model finding and copying a label. Let children point to a word or use it in a dictated sentence.
5. Add a useful word
Make a blank card for a word students ask about and revisit it during the next retell.
A classroom example
In a fictional group, Leni remembers a place from the story but cannot name it. She finds its picture in her dictionary, reads the label with the teacher, and uses it to finish her retell.
Companion printable
The 39-page printable includes 36 illustrated cards in two styles, student picture dictionaries, word work, and blank templates.
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