Reading Comprehension
Strategy
Strategy: K-W-L Charts
Appropriate Grade Level: Lower Elementary - Secondary
Procedures/Steps:
 Set up a 3 column chart and label each column as shown:
K
W
L
 Explain the “K” is what they already know about the topic, “W” is
what they want to know about the topic, “L” is what they’ve learned
about the topic.
 Complete the “K” part of the chart and fill in what the students
already know about the topic to be taught.
 Complete the “W” column with what the students want to know about
the topic being studied.
 Teach the students the required information about the subject matter.
 Review the “W” column and fill in the “L” column based on the
answers to the “W” questions.
Comments and/or tips:
 K-W-L charts are a great way to hook students into learning.
 They help students organize their questions and prior knowledge.
 Complete the K-W-L chart on an overhead or the board.
 Have students copy the chart or give them a copy to keep in their
folders and finish the “L” part together after the material is presented.
Source:
Fisher, D., Frey, N., & Williams, D. (2002). Seven literacy strategies that
work. Educational Leadership, 60, 70-73.