Making and Using Math Anchor Charts

By Rissa Hanneken Updated May 1, 2023

Math anchor charts are an invaluable tool for any teacher. By making learning visual and visible, anchor charts enable students to understand math concepts better. But how can we use them most effectively? Let’s look at the best ways to use anchor charts in the classroom before, during, and after instruction.

Making Anchor Charts for Math Before Instruction

Before a lesson begins, it is essential to introduce the concept that will be covered in class. Using an anchor chart with visuals, definitions, and examples can provide a focused introduction. It allows students to become familiar with the topic. It also allows you to gauge what students already know about the concept.

Using Anchor Charts for Math During Instruction

During instruction is when anchor charts are most effective. They keep students engaged while reinforcing what was taught in the lesson.

This is especially true if you involve students in creating the chart.

This serves two purposes:

• It helps students build a more comprehensive understanding of the material.
• Encourages “buy-in” from students.

Keeping Anchor Charts of Math After Instruction

You can use anchor charts as reference materials for review or assessment activities. This makes it easier for students to recall information from lessons since they have a visual aid.

You can also hang up anchor charts around your classroom to remind you of what has been taught. I remember students in my classroom gazing up at the exact spot an anchor chart hung before state testing to visualize whatever concept they needed to remember! That’s how important visual displays of learning can be!

Math Anchor Chart Tips:

1. Use large chart paper. You want students to be able to see it from different areas of the classroom
2. Do it with your students. If they help you – they will own the learning.
3. Use more than one color marker to differentiate important information
4. Keep the information succinct and organized, so it is easy to find what they need.
5. Be creative! Students love it when you draw (no matter how good or bad it is!).

Using Individual Math Anchor Charts

One way I have found to keep new learning in front of students is by having individual math anchor charts for students to keep in their notebooks.

It’s also easy to put them in math centers for quick reference.

Think of how many times students have had questions and stopped working while they waited for you to be available.

Having these anchor charts up in the classroom or in student notebooks can help keep students learning while they work independently or in small groups.

This set includes these math concepts:

• Addition
• Subtraction
• Place Value
• Rounding
• Multiplication
• Division
• Fractions
• Measurement
• Data Analysis
• Measuring Time
• Area & Perimeter
• Plane Shapes

It makes my teacher’s heart so happy when students look for the information they need to solve a math problem!

That’s why I made this set of essential math anchor charts. Grab this set that includes both digital and printable anchor charts.

Anchor charts are powerful teaching tools that can be used effectively before, during, and after instruction. By making learning visual and visible, you can ensure that your lessons stick with your students long after the teaching ends.