List-group-label strategy

11 June

List-group-label is a form of mapping words. The strategy encourages children to improve their vocabulary and categorization skills and learn to organize concepts. Categorizing listed words, through grouping and labeling helps children organize new concepts in relation to previously learned concepts.

Why use List-Group Strategy

· It helps children organize their understanding of specific vocabulary and concepts.

· It builds on children’s prior knowledge about a topic.

· It actively engages children in learning new vocabulary and content by activating their critical thinking skills.

· It teaches categorizing and labeling skills.

As we read Charlotte's web, we have highlighted some interesting words and noted them on the Read Aloud Worksheet. When we have enough words or are halfway through reading the book, we will practice the list-group-label strategy with the children. Choose words that suit the age group of the children you are working with.

Activity: How to use list-group label strategy

1. Select a main concept in a reading selection.

2. List: Have students brainstorm all the words they think relate to the topic. You can use the words you have noted on the Read Aloud Worksheet already and build on it.

1. Visually display student responses.

2. At this point do not critique student responses. Some words may not reflect the main concept, but hopefully students will realize this as they begin grouping the words in the next step.

3. Group: Divide your class into small groups. Each group will work to cluster the class list of words into subcategories. As groups of words emerge, challenge your students to explain their reasoning for placing words together or discarding them.

4. Label: Invite students to suggest a title or label for the groups of words they have formed. These labels should relate to their reasoning for the grouping.