Free Teacher Tools: Graphic Organizers and Mind Maps
An excellent way to help students plan out a project or even simply brainstorm an idea is by using a mind map or graphic organizer. These are extremely effective visual methods used for organizing data. Graphic organizers use different tools to visually organize ideas, while mind maps show the progression of ideas from one central theme branching outwards. Since just about anyone can use them, it is ideal for students of all ages. It helps them to explore different trains of thought, trigger new or related ideas, and keep track of information in an organized manner.
GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS:
Main Idea Pyramid
Main idea pyramids are a basic way of separating the parts of a theme or idea. In the top, students fill out the core idea and elaborate in each lower level. This model is a great tool for story analysis. As one of the more basic models, the main idea pyramid is better suited to younger grades.
- A Basic Main Idea Pyramid Template
- Story Analysis Main Idea Pyramid Worksheet
- Steps to Use the Main Idea Pyramid Method
- Blank Main Idea Pyramids with Content Hints
Question/Answer Chart
Question and answer charts introduce an added level of depth to a brainstorming session. Teachers can customize the questions based on the grade. Look for worksheets with included questions or prompts. A question and answer chart is also helpful for group study.
- A Student’s Guide to Using the QAR Method
- How to Teach the QAR Method
- A Question/Answer Chart Lesson Plan
- Download a Simple QAR Worksheet
Venn Diagram
Venn diagrams are typically used to compare similarities and differences. This can be as simple as two ideas or more. Coloring each area makes it easier to visualize the shared elements of the ideas. Students can also jot notes inside each area.
- An Introduction to Using Venn Diagrams
- A Venn Diagram for Comparing Three Ideas
- A Sample Venn Diagram Lesson Plan
- A Venn Diagram with Lines for Notes
Sequence Chain
Sequence chains outline ideas in a linear form. This can be done in writing or even with images. Sequence chains work best for straightforward themes. However, they can be limited since they do not encourage lateral thinking.
- Instructions for Using Sequence Chains
- Analyze Story Events with a Sequence Chain
- A Detailed Sequence Chain Worksheet
Flow Chart
Flow charts also trace a series of sequential steps. Unlike sequence chains, they can branch out into further idea processes as well. Flow charts are excellent for logical thinking or problem solving. Depending on the initial question, they can be very basic or quite elaborate.
- Flow Chart Teaching Ideas and Activities
- A Basic Flow Chart Printable
- A Downloadable Package of Flow Chart Flashcards
- Types of Flow Charts and How to Teach Them
MIND MAPS:
Character Map
With a character maps, students learn to analyze characters in a story. This includes personality traits and relationships. Question prompts in some worksheets facilitate the discussion. It is best to arrange a class discussion for further analysis after completion of the maps.
- Character Map Template with Included Questions
- How to Analyze Characters with Character Maps
- Character Map Worksheet with Discussion Prompts
- Basic Analysis Character Map Handout
Story Map
Like character maps, story maps are also used to explore literature. They help students to delve into the theme and storyline. A story map is a great tool to encourage students to think up a story of their own. This activity is suitable for individuals and groups alike.
- How Does Story Mapping Work?
- Blank Story Map Worksheet with Prompts
- Story Map Template to Fill Out
- A More Advanced Story Map Worksheet
Spider Map
With a spider map, students brainstorm ideas that are related to a main theme. The theme is written in the “body” of the spider, while related ideas are jotted down along the legs. Spider maps can be used to recall or list details of a theme. Alternatively, it can also be used to generate new ideas in a non-linear way.
- An Easy Guide to Using Spider Maps
- A Basic Spider Map Printable
- Theme Analysis Spider Map Worksheet
- Examples of How to Use a Spider Map
Fishbone Map
The fishbone map works in a similar way to the spider map. The main idea is contained in the head. Associated ideas are then filled in along the skeleton, or bones of the fish shape. Fishbone maps are somewhat more involved than most other mind maps.
- How Should Students Use Fishbone Maps?
- A Printable Fishbone Map Template
- A Fishbone Map Lesson Plan
- An Example of How Fishbone Maps Work
Continuum Map
Continuum maps can also be thought of as time lines. They can flow horizontally or vertically, depending on the subject’s requirements. A popular use of continuum maps is to plot sequential events. In science or mathematical fields, it is also helpful to show how things compare in relation to others.
- Printable Continuum Map Worksheet
- A Blank Timeline Template
- Free Timeline Printables and Templates
- DIY Timelines Lesson Plan