Word walls are large displays of words that feature high frequency words. These are words that we use very commonly in spoken and written language. Word walls have been used by teachers for over a century. They are a staple of classroom walls lower elementary classrooms all over the world. My teachers used them when I was a student, so did my mother's, and my grandmother's teacher. When the words are assembled correctly it can help students identify patterns and contrasts between words. The real advantage is that it helps makes new words concrete for students. The basic model that you can use with students when introducing word walls is to incorporate them in your daily routine. Using word walls in your classroom is a great strategy for pre-readers and readers alike. They are basic general displays of words that students see regularly and they work as a great review and recognition tool. These can commonly be placed on bulletin boards.
We would highly recommend that you consider posting the words above your general instruction area. The goal to displaying these is to have them visible in the background as much as possible. Many teachers swear that word walls are very effective for helping focus and tackle new vocabulary words and new sounds. Print these out for great quick vocabulary and spelling reminders in your classroom. Perfect for our prereaders and younger students. If you scroll down the page you find grade leveled word walls as well as those based on a theme.