Word Clouds: Making Text Data Visual

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. By Maya Angelou

Word Clouds are a popular means of showing information. Educators and students alike enjoy using Web 2.0 tools such as Wordle and Taxgedo. Used to convert text into a visual representation, Wordle remains a popular word cloud generator. As an instructional technology coach, I have enjoyed using word clouds to enhance lessons. Wordle is an ideal summarizing and previewing tool. Students can create a Wordle based on a reading to “tease out” the main idea. Prior to reading, students can use a Wordle to preview text. This tool may also be helpful for visual learners as a reading map where the main idea and details are displayed. Wordle’s capabilities of changing layout, font, and color develop ownership in learning and appeals to the child’s sense of creativity.