Graphic Organizers are maps that represent relationships and encourage organization of knowledge. Ideal as a primary mode of intake for visual learners, graphic organizers can be used effectively to make abstract ideas concrete and visible. This week, we offer you explanations of five graphic organizers and a version of each to download.
This Week's Tips
Compare and Contrast Web Graphic Organizer (Monday)
Use compare and contrast graphic organizers to help students map out shared and unique characteristics of two concepts, events, characters, people, or processes. Webbing is an ideal pre- and post-lesson activity to enhance learning. Use the accompanying download in your classroom today!
Expanded Venn Diagram (Tuesday)
Use an expanded Venn Diagram to visually organize similarities and differences among three ideas, objects, or sets. The Expanded Venn Diagram can be used in literature to compare and contrast stories, poems, literary techniques, themes, etc. In math, it can be used to compare and contrast sets, geometrical shapes, and mathematical processes. Use the Diagram in history to compare and contrast historical figures, events, or forms of government.
Chain of Events Graphic Organizer (Wednesday)
Use the Chain of Events Graphic Organizer to create a visual representation of successive events in which one event is dependent on another. In literature, use this graphic organizer to trace plot development. In science, the chain of events organizer can be used in labs to outline steps. In history, use this organizer to trace the development of an historical event. And in math, use this organizer to outline a series of steps in a mathematical formula.
Fishbone Mapping Graphic Organizer (Thursday)
Use the Fishbone Mapping Graphic Organizer to determine the causal relationships in a complex idea or event.To use this graph most effectively, begin with the result and then analyze the contributing causes. For example, in literature, the resolution of a story may be the first piece of information on the map, and then students read to determine the evolution of the resolution. In science, the educator may provide the intended result and then create a lab in which students search for the cause(s) of the result.
Affective Graphic Organizer (Friday)
Use the Affective Graphic Organizer to gauge the affective or emotional impact of factual knowledge. This organizer is most effectively used pre- and post-lesson. For example, before beginning a unit on the Vietnam War, give students a series of facts about the war to list on the right of the chart. At the bottom of the chart, ask students to record feelings, thoughts, or associations they develop based on the isolated facts. Then, compare and contrast the affective impact pre- and post- lesson. This graphic organizer also doubles as an advance organizer, indicating to students the learning that is expected to occur during the unit of study.
