2. What are Thinking Maps?
Visual way to organize thinking and learning in a
concise way.
8 kinds of thinking maps are based on 8
fundamental thinking processes such as comparing
and contrasting, sequencing, classifying, and
cause-effect reasoning.
For improving the basics of reading, writing, and
mathematics as well as for problem-solving and
the development of higher-order thinking abilities .
3. Why use Thinking Maps?
Students learn more effectively and with greater
retention
Thought processes are cross curricular
Gauge student prior knowledge
Student performance can be tracked accurately over
time
Skills can carry across students’ academic careers
Lifelong thinking tools
4. Eight Thinking Maps
Circle Map: for defining
context
Bubble Map: for describing
with adjectives
Flow Map : for sequencing
and ordering
Brace Map : for identifying
part/whole relationships
Tree Map : for
classifying/grouping
Double Bubble Map: for
comparing and contrasting
Multi-flow Map: for
analyzing causes and effects
Bridge Map: for seeing
analogies
5. Thinking Maps vs. Graphic Organizers
Similarities:
Both thinking/mind maps and graphic organizers are visual
tools useful for teaching and assessment. Both are highly
successful and have concrete patterns.
Differences:
Thinking Maps Graphic Organizers
•Based on fundamental •Based on isolated tasks
thinking skills •determined forms
•Flexible forms •Difficult to transfer to other
•Transfers easily across subjects
subjects •Teacher oriented
•Student centered
7. Thinking Map Steps
1. Determine the type of thinking
2. Decide on the information to put in your
map
3. Draw the outline of the map.
4. Add information
5. Study the information.
6. Create more than one thinking map about
a given topic.
