Core Purpose
Show relationships between ideas and how they all relate to the Main Idea often represented by shapes centered around a central concept. The main idea can be assigned by instructor or determined by students.
Student Level
Any Level
Class Size
3 – 100+
Ease of Use
Easy – Moderate
🎯 Visual Concept Example
Sample Concept Map Structure
MAIN IDEA
Related Concept A
Related Concept B
Related Concept C
Related Concept D
Related Concept E
Related Concept F
🛠️ Recommended Materials
📋 Physical Implementation Tools
Sticky Notes
For concepts and concept links - easy to rearrange
Large Surface
Chalkboard, chart tablet, bulletin board, or wall
Class Involvement
Optimal participation with instructor guidance
Flexibility
Easy arrangement and rearrangement of elements
💡 Educational Benefits
Relationship Visualization
Helps students see clear connections between different concepts and ideas
Critical Thinking
Strategy to teach and evaluate critical thinking skills effectively
Assessment Tool
Provides graphical system for understanding concept relationships
Student-Centered
Broadens framework for student-centered instruction and learning
The present technique emphasizes the arrangement (and rearrangement) of sticky notes (for concepts and concept links) on a large surface rather than other alternatives such as computer software. In the classroom context, the general concept-mapping technique allows optimal involvement by the class, with guidance from the instructor.
📋 Implementation Guide
Step-by-Step Process
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1Choose Main Idea: Select or assign the central concept that will serve as the focus of the map
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2Identify Related Concepts: Brainstorm ideas, terms, or concepts that connect to the main idea
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3Create Physical Elements: Write concepts on sticky notes or use shapes on the chosen surface
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4Arrange & Connect: Position elements to show relationships, using lines or arrows to indicate connections
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5Discuss & Rearrange: Allow class input to modify, improve, or reorganize the concept map
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6Evaluate Understanding: Use the completed map to assess comprehension and critical thinking