Diagrams, Maps, and Webs

Visual learning tools like diagrams, maps, and webs can greatly enhance classroom instruction and student learning. In my first grade classroom, I am doing a read aloud of the book Charlotte’s Web. We have talked about the setting, the plot, and the characters. I would love to have the students use a tool like Kidspiration to create a character web of their favorite character from the story. Although we do not have the software available in our school, it is something that I could have them create using a template that I can print off the computer as well. It still gives a visual representation of the character and their traits. In the third and fourth quarter writing benchmarks, the students are being assessed on organization, among many other things. We are introducing them to graphic organizers to use as prewriting tools. I am planning on giving students a prewriting web to fill out to help them with their next writing piece. I will be modeling the process first, showing the students how to put the main idea in the center, and their supporting details around the outside of the web. In the future, I would love to be able to do this using technology as well. These tools can also be useful in introducing new vocabulary to students. They can work to create a map or a web connecting the new word to their existing schema.