Making Tree Maps

In our class, we have been working on a new kind of thinking map called a tree map. Tree maps can help us to organize our thinking about an idea into groups or categories. This week we have synthesized tree maps into our learning in fun and interactive ways.

 In writing, students have been exploring the different kinds of writing we see in the world. The children brought in different examples from home to share. As a group, we then organized the writing we found into groups in a tree map. We found signs, cards/ postcards, maps, advertisements and menus. What other kinds of writing do you see at home? What other kinds of writing do you see outside?

 We are also preparing for our first class trip to the farm. We explored and read some farm books together. Students then illustrated something they may see at the farm on an index card and shared it with the group. The students then came up to a pocket chart and placed their card on the tree map. We learned a lot about the kinds of things we will see at the farm!





We also used our team work skills to work together at our table to make a tree map about colors. Each table got a different colored marker, and had to brainstorm and take turns illustrating things that could be that color. Each table shared their section of the tree map with the group and we put it together into a large map of colors. We are really learning to work cooperatively and listen to each others ideas!