0. Module 121 Tools for Thinking
(Types of Graphic Organizers)

1. Types of Graphic Organizers
Type
Examples
Purpose
Web (star, tree, hierarchical)
Clustering, webbing, spider map, bubble map, tree *
Concept
Concept map
Idea or Creative
Idea map, problem-solution, decision-making, web, cluster
Sequential
Timeline, action plan, chain of events, continuum
Diagram
Compare/contrast map, Venn diagram, fishbone, interaction map, cause/effect map
Cyclic
Cycle
Matrix
Storyboard, attribute, classification, compare/contrast, casual, decision-making
Resources
Freeman, G. The Graphic Organizer
Jacob, J. (1999). Graphic Organizers: A Tool for Negotiating Meaning
Kipperman, D., and McKinstry, M. Write Design Online: Graphic Organizers.
Somers Central School District. Graphic Organizers that Support Specific Thinking Skills.
Thinkport. Graphic Organizers.Mayland Public Television and John Hopkins University Center for Technology in Education.
Retrieved from Facilitator Module 121: p. 15

2. Web:
Shows how different categories of information relate to one another. Can be used to help classify, categorize, describe, show structures or attributes, brainstorm.

3. Concept:
Shows the relationship between information through directional, labeled arrows.

4. Used for creative thinking. Brainstorm, solve problems, plan work.
Idea or Creative:
Used for creative thinking. Brainstorm, solve problems, plan work.

5. Sequential:
Arranges events, processes, sequences and procedures in chronological order.

6. Diagram:
Shows how concepts interact or how they are related. Can be used to compare/contrast or show cause/effect.

7. Cycle: Shows the interaction of a series of events that is continuous.

8. Shows the relationship of various items in the form of a chart.
Matrix:
Shows the relationship of various items in the form of a chart.