Concept Mapping: Colors of the Rainbow

 
Concept maps are a fun and effective way to introduce a lesson to a class.  They are interactive and visually appealing for the students.  Because they are so visual, they would be a great way to teach a lesson to a child that has a hearing impairment.  Also, for students who are visual learners, concepts maps are right up their alley.  
        At first, the whole idea about making a concept map had me a little worried.  I honestly did not really even know what a concept map was, and then when I saw an example I thought to myself, "How in the world am I going to make that?"  To my surprise, it actually was not difficult at all.  It was actually fun!  I did my concept map on the colors of the rainbow (shown above).  The software "Kidspiration" made it very easy to create.
     I one hundred percent will use a concept map in my classroom.  Not only will I, as the teacher, use it but also it would be a great idea to have the students make one themselves.  Having them make one would be a great way to have them actually interact with the lesson.  I thoroughly enjoyed this assignment and I am so glad I was introduced to concept mapping.
Concept mapping falls under the NETS-T standard:

1. Facilitate and Inspire Student Learning and Creativity

Teachers use their knowledge of subject matter, teaching and learning, and technology to facilitate experiences that advance student learning, creativity, and innovation in both face-to-face and virtual environments.

a. Promote, support, and model creative and innovative thinking and inventiveness

b. Engage students in exploring real-world issues and solving authentic problems using digital tools and resources

c. Promote student reflection using collaborative tools to reveal and clarify students’ conceptual understanding and thinking, planning, and creative processes

d. Model collaborative knowledge construction by engaging in learning with students, colleagues, and others in face-to-face and virtual environments

Using concept maps are a great way to promote, support, and model creative and innovative thinking.  It is an interactive tool that lets the students explore different topics and share them with teachers and other classmates.