What are Thinking Maps®?
 
Thinking Maps®, developed by Dr. David Hyerle, are visual teaching tools that foster and encourage lifelong learning. They're based on a simple yet insight: The one common instructional thread that binds together all teacher is that they all teach the same thought processes.
 
In nursery, for example, we may call one of these processes grouping or sorting. Later, we refer to it as categorising: main idea, supporting ideas and details. But whatever the label, it is the thought process of classification - one of eight distinct Thinking Map processes.
 
To learn more you may like to visit http://www.mapthemind.com/

 

For information regarding training in Thinking Maps visit the website of Kestrel Consulting at http://www.thinking.co.uk/

 

FreeMind is free software which lets you easily create and share mind maps.
 
 
Brace Map

 

The Brace Map is used by students to analyze physical objects. On the line to the left is the name or image of the whole object. On the lines within the first brace to the right are the major parts. Examples
 
 
Bridge Map

 

The Bridge Map gives students a tool for applying the process of seeing analogies. Examples

 

 

The Bubble Map is used for describing using adjectives (and adjective phrases). Unlike the Circle Map which is used for brainstorming, The Bubble Map is a tool for enriching students' abilities to identify qualities and use descriptive words. Examples

 

 

 

The Circle Map is used for brainstorming ideas and for showing prior knowledge about a topic by providing context information. Examples

 

 

 

The Double Bubble Map is a tool for comparing and contrasting things. Examples

 

 

 

The Flow Map is used by students for sequencing and ordering information. Examples

 

 

 

The Multi-Flow Map is used by students for showing and analyzing cause and effect relationships. In the centre rectangle is an important event. On the left side of the event are the causes, and on the right side of the event the effects.  Examples

 

 

The Tree Map is used by students for classifying things and ideas. Examples