Concept Maps

Description:  A concept map is a graphic organizer used to represent related concepts and ideas.  It gives students a visual “map” of the organization of ideas/concepts.  Concept maps help students understand difficult passages of text through organization of the main idea(s) presented in the material.

 

Step-by-Step

  • After reading the selection, list the main topic/concept of the selection.  Brainstorm as many related words as possible.
  • List the concept words according to hierarchy and according to relationship.
  • Draw lines to link the connections between the different concept words. Label the lines with words or phrases that explain the relationships.
  • Have students list features beside or below each word, which help describe the concept.

http://www.readingrockets.org/strategies/concept_maps/