Anchor Charts

Let's talk about Anchor Charts:)

I absolutely LOVE anchor charts! I am sure I'm not alone in my adoration! I wanted to compile a list of great anchor charts for the modern social studies classroom AND explain the novelty of each individual type of chart. I am a middle school U. S history teacher so I tend to save ideas that I think could be used for my own classroom. I think all of these types of charts can be used in any social studies classroom be it US history, world history, or even government.

REFERENCE CHARTS

Reference charts are simply put, those that you reference while teaching any given topic. The chart above is a great year-long anchor chart. As a side note, I would definitely laminate anchor charts you decide to use year-round! I like this chart because by answering the questions listed, my students are able to better understand a text they are reading! Constantly asking questions while one reads is key to becoming a great reader. I NEVER want a student to say "Yeah Ms. B I read it, but I couldn't tell you what it's saying."Question while you read!

TERMINOLOGY CHARTS

Terminology charts state specific terms/vocabulary you want your students to use consistently throughout the school year. As a teacher, it is important to use these terms yourself! I love this particular example (even though it does look elementary-esque) because it forces students and myself to always SUPPORT what we say. These terms force myself to explain concepts in 7 different ways every single day!

RECYCLABLE CHARTS

Recyclable Charts are the ones you can fit in whatever objective/topic you are teaching. This "About the Author" chart can be used for EVERY text your students read. As a history teacher, I would use this for analyzing primary source documents. 

VISUAL AIDE CHARTS

Sometimes you just want a pretty, cute, colored picture on your wall. I know I definitely fall into the trap of wanting my classroom to look perfect and cute from day one to day 191. Teachers can use anchor charts to liven up their classroom decor WHILE using them as actual learning tools. Visuals on anchor charts make it so that information can be easily seen and understood. This chart of "Westward Expansion" is a perfect example of a pretty, colorful, fun chart that any teacher would want on his/her wall while also being completely useful and practical!

I hope this post  has given you some ideas for when setting up your classroom for the up and coming school year. Please let me know of any other types of anchor charts you've used in your classroom!

- Ms. B