What does KWL stand for?

K = What I Know (or think I know), W = What I Want to know, L = What I Learned. The first two columns are filled in before reading, and the third column is completed after reading.

Can KWL charts be used in any subject?

Yes — KWL charts are effective across all subjects where students read informational text: science, social studies, health, and more. They work especially well when introducing a new topic or unit.

What if some of my K column entries turn out to be wrong?

That is actually valuable! Discovering that prior knowledge was inaccurate is an important learning experience. Noting misconceptions in the L column strengthens correct understanding and builds critical thinking habits.

KWL Chart Maker

Create a Know / Want to Know / Learned graphic organizer for any topic. Free, no signup required.

How to Use KWL Chart Maker

Enter the topic you are reading about.
Fill in the K column: list what you already know (or think you know) about the topic.
Fill in the W column: list questions you want answered — what you want to learn.
After reading, fill in the L column: record what you learned, comparing it to your K and W entries.

Why It Matters

The KWL strategy, developed by Donna Ogle in 1986, activates prior knowledge, sets a reading purpose, and promotes reflection. Research shows that activating prior knowledge before reading significantly improves comprehension by giving readers a framework for connecting new information to existing knowledge. Setting specific questions (the W column) transforms passive reading into active information-seeking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does KWL stand for?: K = What I Know (or think I know), W = What I Want to know, L = What I Learned. The first two columns are filled in before reading, and the third column is completed after reading.
Can KWL charts be used in any subject?: Yes — KWL charts are effective across all subjects where students read informational text: science, social studies, health, and more. They work especially well when introducing a new topic or unit.
What if some of my K column entries turn out to be wrong?: That is actually valuable! Discovering that prior knowledge was inaccurate is an important learning experience. Noting misconceptions in the L column strengthens correct understanding and builds critical thinking habits.

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