Anyone who’s heard me talk or has read The Write Structure knows that I am very passionate about teaching methods and strategies that are easily transferable (applicable both horizontally — across subject/content areas — and vertically — in lower and upper grade levels). My belief is that simple, consistent approaches are better for everyone. By using the same visuals and common language across subject areas and throughout multiple grade levels, we can help decrease the mental chaos and exhaustion so many students and teachers experience. I especially believe in this approach when teaching writing. But there’s something else I’ve come to know as transferable, engaging, and very effective: Thinking Maps.
I came home yesterday to a large piece of paper on the counter (forget love languages — giant-sized paper is the way to my heart). It had my husband's handwriting on it. I took a closer look and saw that it was a Tree Map for first graders. This one would help them sort and categorize various aspects of three different fairy tales. It was organized, visually easy to understand, and it made me swoon.
Thanks to Shawn’s contagious enthusiasm, I’ve spent a lot of time this school year re-learning, studying, and applying Thinking Maps. They are everything I believe in — research based, transferable, and visual. Thinking Maps can enhance any and all types of curriculum and will assist you in cultivating a classroom of thinkers.
If you’re looking for a systematic, streamlined approach to organizing thoughts and content, check out a Thinking Map training near you.
Happy thinking,
Lindsay