Monday, March 26, 2012
Tree Map
As of 8:42am on Monday March 26, our department is completely caught up on Thinking Maps. All that we need now is for you (and me) to describe ways we are using the thinking maps in class. This week's thinking map is the Tree Map. If you have any trouble remembering what this is PLEASE refer to the email I sent explaining it. Also look at the pictures I sent, they help out.
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I have required my students to use a two-column Tree Map (I call it a Two-branch Tree Map.) for brainstorming on persuasive essays. I will actually be using one this week as we write persuasive essays in English 3. It is a good way for students to examine both sides of an argument before they begin writing.
ReplyDeleteI am planning to use the tree map with my English 2 CP classes as an outline for their HSAP practice essay. I am going to use the model that Josh attached in his email, where they have a thesis statement, topic sentence, and supporting details included in their map. I think this is a good way for students to organize their thoughts, and make sure they have supporting details to back up their main points throughout their essay.
ReplyDeleteToday we began our Fiction Book Projects. As students presented the projects, we created a Tree Map categorizing the novels read as science fiction, historical fiction, etc. This worked really well to classify fiction as well as to encourage futher reading in areas of interest.
ReplyDeleteWe are working on Persuasive Essay in FT English III and the students used a tree map to brainstorm ideas for their essay. The question was "Some people believe that cars are more dangerous than guns. Agree or disagree with the statement." Students had to write down all the ways they felt cars were dangerous as compared to guns. Then, they were able to write their essay.
ReplyDeleteWe are using a Tree Map in German to list new nouns according to their gender (der/die/das)and form sub-categories by listing verbs that help using the nouns in a sentence.
ReplyDeleteFor my English II class, we are working with descriptive writing. I assigned them an easy essay, dealing with their favorite animal. I used the second tree map picture from the email (just like Tolly) where students have to use a thesis statement and then come up with details describing why the animal they picked is their favorite. I want this paper to be easy, just a 5 paragraph essay, but I really want students to work on organization of their writing. Constructing a tree map is a good way to help students organize their ideas for their writing, backing up the points that they are making.
ReplyDeleteThis week, my students have been testing since we just completed our Macbeth unit. I have not used the tree map, but intend to do so when we return from spring break. My students will begin their research papers and will use the tree maps to help them narrow their focus and organize their ideas. I think this map will be the most beneficial to my students of all the maps we have used thus far.
ReplyDeleteIn preparation for research projects, my students used the tree maps to organize information they have begun gathering. These maps are excellent for this type project and I have had more success with this one than any of the previous ones we have used. The students "see" the value of this mapping exercise and have been very cooperative and pleased with their results.
ReplyDeleteWe used a tree map in English 1 to organize the characters in Romeo and Juliet. Students were getting confused about who was part of each family, and the tree map helped them see who was a Capulet, who was a Montague, and who remained neutral in their feud.
ReplyDeleteI have so enjoyed seeing your ideas for incorporating the Tree Map into your instruction. It is so valuable for organization and classification. You're right on track in using it for brainstorming and prewriting activities. Most of all, I'm glad your students are experiencing success and seeing its benefits! Now they will be motivated to make it their tool for learning! Thank you for your hard work and commitment to your students! Linda
ReplyDeleteI used a tree map to dissect round characters from literature. Students chose a character and broke down their personalities into sub-categories with details to support each category...a good activity.
ReplyDeleteI used a tree map in French III to organize the different verb tenses. Students listed the tenses and under each one they wrote how to form the tense.
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