The Ultimate Guide on How to Create Reading Strategies Anchor Chart

Have you ever walked into a classroom and were immediately drawn to the anchor chart hanging on the wall? Reading strategies anchor charts are a staple in many classrooms, serving as a visual aid that helps students engage with the material being taught. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to create an ELA anchor chart that’s both visually appealing and educational.

Step 1: Choose Your Topic

The first step in creating an ELA anchor chart is to choose your topic. This will vary depending on your grade level and the concepts you’re covering in class. Some popular ELA anchor chart topics include reading comprehension strategies, grammar rules, and literary devices. Once you’ve selected your topic, you can begin brainstorming the key ideas you want to include on your anchor chart.

Step 2: Determine Your Design

The next step is to determine the design of your anchor chart. This includes selecting the font, color scheme, and graphics that will be used on your chart. When choosing your font, make sure it’s large enough to be read from a distance. Additionally, using a variety of fonts can help draw attention to key ideas. For your color scheme, consider using bright colors that will catch students’ eyes and make the chart visually appealing. Finally, graphics can help reinforce the concepts you’re teaching, so consider incorporating images or icons related to your topic.

Step 3: Plan Your Layout

Now that you’ve chosen your topic and design, it’s time to plan the layout of your anchor chart. Determine the size and orientation of your chart based on the available wall space in your classroom. Then, divide your chart into sections that correspond to the key ideas you identified earlier. Use headings and subheadings to clearly label each section and make the chart easy to read.

Step 4: Create Your Reading Strategies Anchor Chart

With your topic, design, and layout in place, it’s time to create your ELA anchor chart. Start by creating a rough sketch of your chart on paper, then transfer it onto a larger piece of chart paper using a ruler and markers. Make sure everything is aligned and legible, and don’t be afraid to make adjustments as needed. Once you’re satisfied with your chart, hang it up in your classroom for all to see.

Step 5: Engage with Your Chart

The final step in creating an ELA anchor chart is to engage with it. Encourage your students to interact with the chart by filling out information, adding their own ideas, and referencing it as they complete assignments. As students engage with the chart, they’ll be reinforcing their understanding of the concepts being taught.

ELA anchor charts are a powerful tool for engaging students and reinforcing key concepts. By following these steps for creating an ELA anchor chart, you can ensure that your chart is both visually appealing and educational. Remember to choose a topic, determine your design and layout, create your chart, and encourage interaction with your chart. With a little creativity and planning, you can create an anchor chart that will become a valuable resource for your students throughout the year. Happy charting!