Concept Maps

Concept Maps

are visual representations of information. They can

take the form of charts, graphic organizers, tables,
flowcharts, Venn Diagrams, timelines, or T-charts.
Concept maps are especially useful for students
who learn better visually, although they can benefit
any type of learner.
Flow diagram or Sequence Chart

is a collective term for a diagram

representing a flow or set of dynamic
relationships in a system. The term flow
diagram is also used as a synonym for
flowchart, and sometimes as a counterpart of
the flowchart.
Compare/Contrast or Venn Diagram

A compare and contrast diagram is used to

identify the similarities and differences between
two or more concepts. The outside part of the
circle contains the qualities, characteristics, or
traits of one concept which is different from the
other circle. The inner part circle or the center
part in which the circles meet contains the
similarities of both sides
A main idea and details chart
shows the hierarchical relationship between major concepts
and their subordinate elements. This organizer is extremely
beneficial in helping students distinguish central ideas and their
corresponding details from less important information. When
using the type of graphic organizer, clearly label the main idea
and the details as such. Use a different shape or area for the
main idea and the details.
The cause and effect chain graphic organizer

reinforces the idea that each cause brings about a

related effect, that in turn each effect becomes a
cause for the next effect, and that all causes lead to
the final effect. This graphic organizer will help
students identify, understand, and remember
multiple causes leading to an event.
Problem and Solution Map
This map is used to determine the problem, challenges,
conflicts, hindrances, and malfunctions of an idea and
the possible solutions.
Obstacles, hindrances, and malfunctions often have a
number of different possible solutions, and this type of
graphic organizer can be an effective way to help
students better visualize which of those will be most
effective.
The Frayer Model

(Frayer, 1969; Buehl, 2001) is to identify and

define unfamiliar concepts and vocabulary.
Students define a concept/word/term, describe its
essential characteristics, provide examples of the
idea and suggest non examples of the idea. It
helps the student develop more comprehensive
vocabulary skills by offering a wider
understanding of a word.
A timeline
is a type of graphic organizer that shows
specific events in sequence, usually with
dates, in a linear fashion. Timelines are
particularly useful for studying or
reviewing history, because the timeline
will visually display major events over a
period of time.
Cycle diagram
is used to show how a series of events interact
repeatedly through a cycle. It also helps you see
the connection, patterns, and arrangements of
an idea or process. Some examples of topics
that work well with cycle diagrams include the
cycle of life, the flow of money in an economy
and the carbon cycle in nature.