What does a KWL chart stand for in a learning context?

The KWL chart stands for "Know, Want to know, Learned," which is an instructional tool used to guide students through the process of inquiry-based learning. It helps students organize their thoughts and track their learning throughout a lesson or unit.

In the first column, "Know," students list what they already understand about a topic. This activates prior knowledge and helps make connections to the new content. The second column, "Want to know," prompts students to express their questions or curiosities about the topic, guiding their focus and encouraging deeper engagement. Finally, the "Learned" column is completed at the end of the lesson or unit, where students reflect on what they have discovered and how their understanding has changed. This systematic approach not only aids in retention and comprehension but also fosters student ownership of their learning process.

This structure aligns closely with educational practices that aim to develop critical thinking and reflectivity in learners, making it a valuable tool in both teaching and assessment.