KWHL Chart
Know / Want / How / Learned, blank.
A KWHL Chart extends the familiar KWL format by adding a fourth column: How will I find out? This addition turns a passive prediction tool into a research planning scaffold. Students record what they Know, form questions under Want to Know, then decide How they will investigate before diving in. After research or instruction, they fill the Learned column. The extra step is especially valuable in grades 3 through 8, where independent research skills begin to matter. Teachers use it to build information literacy alongside content knowledge, while students gain practice identifying reliable sources, experiments, or experts before they start. The blank template works across every subject area.
Learning objectives
- Activate background knowledge before a new research task
- Generate focused inquiry questions tied to learning goals
- Identify appropriate research strategies and source types
- Plan and sequence an investigation before beginning
- Consolidate new learning against original predictions
- Strengthen information literacy and source evaluation habits
How to use this template
- Print one copy per student or share a digital version through your classroom platform.
- Students fill the Know column with existing knowledge before any instruction begins.
- In the Want to Know column, they write specific questions they hope to answer.
- Students plan the How column by naming sources, experiments, or people they will consult.
- After completing the research or lesson, they record key takeaways in the Learned column.
Classroom & home ideas
- Launch a science inquiry unit by completing the K, W, and H columns as a class before lab day.
- Use it for a social studies research project where students must cite at least two source types in the H column.
- Have students compare their H column plans with a partner to peer-review research strategies.
- Assign the first three columns for homework after introducing a new topic, then discuss plans as a class the next day.
- Collect completed charts as a formative assessment to see which students identified valid versus unreliable sources.
Skills & curriculum links
Frequently asked questions
How is the KWHL Chart different from a regular KWL Chart?
The KWHL adds a How will I find out? column between W and L. This extra step prompts students to plan their research strategy rather than jumping straight into reading or browsing.
Which grades benefit most from the KWHL format?
Grades 3 and up, where students begin independent research projects. The How column introduces source planning in a structured way that grows with the student.
Can the KWHL template be used for a single lesson rather than a full unit?
Yes. Even for a 45-minute lesson, the How column can list the textbook page, video, or experiment students will use, keeping the thinking visible.
Is this template suitable for group work?
Definitely. Print one sheet per group. Teams can debate their H column choices together, which is itself a valuable discussion about evaluating information sources.
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