1. Making Sense of Maps
By Melissa Winfield

2. Mind Mapping
Mind mapping can be been defined as visual,
non-linear representations of ideas and their
relationships. Mind maps are comprised of a
network of related concepts. In mind mapping,
any idea can be connected to any other. Free-
form, spontaneous thinking is encouraged when
creating a mind map. The aim of mind mapping
is to find creative associations between ideas.
Thus, mind maps can be viewed as association
maps. The main use of mind mapping is to
create an association of ideas.

4. Concept Mapping
Concept mapping is often confused with
mind mapping. However, unlike mind
mapping, concept mapping is more
structured, and less pictorial in nature. The
aim of concept mapping is not to generate
spontaneous associative elements but to
outline relationships between ideas. Thus,
concept mapping is a relational device. A
concept map has a hierarchical structure.

6. Thinking Maps
Thinking Maps are eight visual-verbal
learning tools in the form of graphic
organizers, each of which is based on a
fundamental thinking process and used
together as a set of tools for showing
relationships. Thinking maps differ from
that of concept and mind maps in that
each graphic organizer is meant to be
used to target a different specific subset
learning skill area.

8. Mind Map Uses
• Brainstorming
• Chapter Summaries
• Note Taking
• Problem Solving
• Recalling Information

9. Concept Map Uses
• Categorize Information
• Outlines
• Study Guides
• Analyze Relationships and Concepts
• Vocabulary Development

10. Thinking Map Uses
• student-centered and cooperative learning
• concept development, reflective thinking
• creativity; differentiated instruction
• clarity of communication
• continuous cognitive development