Using Graphic Organizers to Support Writing
 SPED 5023
Welcome to online learning!   The information and activities provided in this online lesson will help you learn about graphic organizers and how they can be used in the classroom to help struggling writers. In order to be successful, it is very important that you participate in every piece of this lesson. Throughout this lesson please keep in mind that you will be held accountable for this information on the final exam. Take your time completing this lesson: do a little every day, and you will have a more enjoyable learning experience and retain more information.  Just follow the steps below!
Directions
This online lesson consists of several activities, two formal assignments worth 25 points each, and an online survey-format personal response to one of the activities. The assignments are all due as noted in their directions on the date of our next class meeting.  I cannot stress enough that you should read carefully all parts of this online lesson.  If you overlook an activity or assignment, or do not read through all the directions, you will not be given an opporunity to fix it after the due date. No exceptions. Below are several handouts that are referenced throughout the lesson. You can print them in advance, or wait until you are directed to do so.  
 
Handouts
Custom Writing Templates
High School Lab Report Format
Modified Lab Report
The Typical American President Assignment

1.  Introduction to Graphic Organizers

The following short video created by Sarah Haines is an excellent introduction to Graphic Organizers.  Click to watch video.

 

2.  Why use Graphic Organizers?

The human brain naturally looks for connections between old and new information. Additionally, studies have shown that the brain processes information most efficiently in chunks. Graphic organizers complement both of these processes by helping students:

  • Visually sort new information into familiar categories
  • Analyze the relationships between old and new information
  • Create a simple structure for thinking about information in new ways
  • Review concepts and demonstrate understanding

Graphic organizers can be used in all phases of learning from brainstorming ideas, organizing thoughts for written expression, and demonstrating understanding of content. The software program Inspiration is a popular graphic organizer program that is widely used in school districts nationwide. Their website provides a generous amount of information regarding the benefits of using grahic organizers in the classroom. One section of their site discusses "Visual Thinking and Visual Learning."  Please read the following short passages on this site:  Overview; Graphic Organizers; Concept Mapping; Mind Mapping; Webbing and Outlining.


3.  Does organizing really help?

 Here is your opportunity to see if organizing really helps.  Please print 2 copies of this activity sheet - you will need both!   
Directions:
1. Hold one activity sheet in front of you so that the "circled number 1" is in the upper left side. 
2. The goal of this activity is to circle as many numbers as you can find, in their correct order, within a one minute period. Have someone time you, or use the timer on your cell phone.  (Example:  circle 2, then 3, then 4, etc. until the one minute period is done.)  Write down on the top of the paper the last number you circled indicating how far you progressed during one minute. (Example:  14)

 PLEASE DO NOT READ AHEAD UNTIL YOU COMPLETE THIS PART. You will be asked to write a reaction to this exercise.







Created by Kim Parra, MA
Updated 3/7/12