Student Learning Map Displays

Carol Brewer
Aug 17, 2009

How do I display my Student Learning Maps?  Where is the best place so the students can see it and use it?  What about the fire codes?  How am I going to fit this into my already over crowded room?  These are popular questions, especially when thinking about the start of a new school year.

The Student Learning Maps can be displayed on:

  • LEARNING-FOCUSED Dry Erase Student Learning Map Charts
  • Bulletin boards
  • Chart paper on a chart stand or bulletin board
  • Pocket charts on a chart stand or bulletin board
  • Poster paper
  • Tri-fold boards (like the Science Fair boards)
  • Moving carts for the teachers that go from room to room
  • Windows (be careful of the glare)
  • File cabinets
  • Storage cabinets
  • Doors

The most important thing to remember are:  Can the students see the Student Learning Map and are they using it?

Suggestions:

Use half of a bulletin board for the map and the other half of the board for student work.  This works great because it is a visual for students to make the connection from instruction to assignments.  The display of the student work is the evidence of the learning.  Some teachers put the Essential Question, or Concept at the top of the student work board to make an even stronger connection.

Display learning resources with the maps such as charts and graphs.  For example, when teaching the Water Cycle, place the poster of the Cycle beside the Student Learning Map as a visual for learning.  This poster may be commercially made or teacher/student made.  Think of these Student Learning Maps as tools for learning rather than something that has been required to display.

Display Graphic Organizers and student work to strengthen the use of the maps.  Many students make stronger connections to organizers and assignments when they seem them displayed with the maps.

Display any visuals that might make connections for learning.  For example, pictures of students working together to complete assignments work great for this suggestion. The students realize that the assignment was completed to answer this Essential Question.

Use the Student Learning Map as an interactive Learning Center.  For example, have the Vocabulary words, descriptions and pictures (if possible) on index cards and placed in a pocket chart.  The students can match these together during Center Time and add them to their Vocabulary Log.

The location of the Student Learning Map can also make the connection to the subject being taught.  For example, the Science Learning Map is placed in the Science Center.

Consider talking about and adding to this list during grade level or team meetings to secure the “just right” way to display the Student Learning Maps.  It is also suggested to visit or “walkthrough” other classrooms to get ideas that might be helpful to meet the needs of all students.