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Using Digital Technologies: Graphic Organizers
This support material is incorporated into critical challenges at grades K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12; however, it can be adapted for use at all grade levels.
A graphic organizer is a visual representation of information and ideas, such as a chart, flowchart, diagram or concept map. Symbols and images may be integrated with text to represent connections, sequences, groupings or cause-effect relationships.
Using a word processor
To use this technology:
- select and arrange shapes and arrows, or choose graphic organizer templates from toolbars within an application such as Microsoft Word
- insert object into a document
- insert text (e.g., labels, descriptions, titles), symbols or images to create a visual representation of information and ideas.
See the example "Mind
Map Using a SmartArt Graphic from Microsoft Word." 
Using online tools and templates
Various online (Web 2.0) tools and templates can be used to create graphic
organizers.
To use these technologies:
- follow directions provided on the Web site for creating a graphic organizer
- insert text (e.g., labels, descriptions, titles), symbols or images to create a visual representation of information and ideas.
References
| Title: | Exploratree in Action |
| Host: | Futurelab |
| Description: | The animated tour of the Web site provides an overview for use of a series of interactive graphic organizers called Thinking Guides that can be customized, printed, edited and shared. Go to the home page at http://exploratree.org.uk/ to access the templates. Caution: (Completed graphic organizers can be printed; however, users must register in order to save or share completed Thinking Guides. There is no charge for registration.) |
| URL: | http://exploratree.org.uk/movie.php |
| Title: | About Use Cases in Education and Learning |
| Host: | Mindmeister |
| Description: | Includes research, suggestions for use of mind maps in educational settings, and examples. Caution: (Users must sign up in order to create mind maps. A basic subscription that allows for the creation of three mind maps is free of charge. Academic subscriptions for use and features beyond the basic are available. Prices vary. Go to the home page. To sign up, http://www.mindmeister.com/ ) |
| URL: | http://www.mindmeister.com/content/uses_in_education |
| Title: | Blank Template |
| Host: | Gliffy |
| Description: | This Web site provides a library of shapes and a canvas for creating mind maps. See the home page (http://www.gliffy.com/) to access examples of flowcharts, diagrams, floor plans and technical drawings. Caution: (Completed mind maps can be printed; however, users must register for a basic account in order to save or export. A basic account is available free of charge for a trial period. Academic subscriptions for usage and features beyond the basic plan are available. Prices vary. Go to the home page. To sign up, http://www.gliffy.com/. ) |
| URL: | http://www.gliffy.com/gliffy/#templateId=blank&signup=1 |
| Title: | Free Tools in the Classroom |
| Host: | Microsoft |
| Description: | Free downloadable tools are available for teachers and students to use in the classroom. Included are tools such as a collage-maker, telescope, movie maker, translator and more. |
| URL: | http://www.microsoft.com/education/teachers/guides/freetools.aspx |
| Title: | How-to Articles from Microsoft |
| Host: | Microsoft |
| Description: | Learn how to use Microsoft software in the classroom. Articles include tips and tricks for using Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Publisher, Outlook, Visio and Windows Live Movie Maker. |
| URL: | http://www.microsoft.com/education/howto.mspx |
Credits
Adapted from Critical Challenges Across the Curriculum series. Permission granted by The Critical Thinking Consortium for use by Alberta teachers.
