Web Maps (Webs)

Web maps, (or webs), are visual representations that show how different categories of information relate to one another. Web maps provide structure for ideas and facts and give students a flexible framework for organizing and prioritizing information.

Typically, major topics or central concepts are at the center of the web map. Links from the center connect supporting details or ideas with the core concept or topic.

Teachers and students alike use webs to brainstorm, organize information for writing (pre-writing), as well as to analyze stories and characterization.

Classroom teachers tell us that web mapping is an effective technique to use in small group settings. As students work cooperatively they can build collaborative webs, incorporating the thoughts and contributions of each group member.

Explore the different ways to use web maps:

Literary webs help students analyze stories or novels so that they more fully understand the literary elements at play, as well as the composition of the story.

Character webs represent one of the ways in which visual learning can support reading comprehension.

Comparison is one of the most basic and powerful forms of analysis in any discipline.

Prewriting describes the brainstorming and organizing students do before writing a story.

Other visual learning techniques:

• Idea Maps
• Concept Maps

See more curriculum ideas for using Inspiration in the Achieving Standards with Inspiration 7 Lesson Plan Book, and find out how Kidspiration can help meet curriculum standards for grades K-5 in the Kidspiration Activity Book. These products and more are available in our store.