An illustrated word wall helps children talk about a Thanksgiving story or write a label with a precise word. Display a small group of words for the lesson, then show children how to find them on a personal list.
At a glance
Teach words in context and move the vocabulary from the wall to student writing.
1. Choose a topic
Pick a few words about fall, food, gathering, or travel that fit a current lesson. Show the pictures as you name them.
2. Talk about the details
Ask children what a picture shows and what they know about the item. Invite families’ examples during food or gathering discussions.
3. Model finding the printed word
Point to the illustration, read the label, and copy it into a short sentence. Repeat the move with a new word.
4. Put a list in the writing folder
Use a personal list when children cannot easily see the wall. Let children choose a word for a caption, label, or dictated sentence.
5. Check the word in a different picture
Show a new image or object and see whether children can choose the right word. Ask them what helped.
A classroom example
In a fictional group, Tia wants to write about a harvest basket. She finds harvest on her list, adds it to a picture label, and tells her partner what people can gather.
Companion printable
The 36-page printable includes 40 illustrated words in two classroom styles and four topic-based personal lists.
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