What is an anchor chart?

An anchor chart is a tool used to support instruction (i.e., “anchor” the learning for students). As you teach a lesson, you create a chart, together with your students, that captures the most important content and relevant strategies.

Why do teachers make anchor charts during a lesson?

Teachers make anchor charts during a lesson to reinforce instruction. When the teacher demonstrates a step or concept during the lesson, she then adds this information to the chart. When the lesson is finished, the anchor chart is displayed in the classroom to “anchor” students’ future thinking!

Should you prepare your anchor chart in advance?

You can prep certain parts of your anchor chart – like headers, graphics, or questions you plan to have students respond to – in advance. This can allow you to focus on the instructional pieces more fully during the lesson instead of trying to get everything on the page while your students watch you write.

Are anchor charts a good visual aid?

Imagine saying that one plus one is two and being greeted with dozens of Whys. Many students, younger children, in particular, are better visual than textual learners. An anchor chart as a visual aid enables them to understand and conceptualize new information more easily. Anchor charts shouldn’t come filled out entirely.