j.+Chapter+9+-+Visual+Tools

Chapter 9: Visual Tools

Simply stated, children learn better with visuals. Today, children receive the majority of their information visually through the computer, e-reader, and smart phone. These devices offer an infinite amount of information along with pictures and video streams that enhance the experience. Because of this, their visual systems are much more reflexive and intuitive about what they see. (Sprenger, 2010) We can reach our students more effectively with the use of visual aids such as mind maps.

Graphic representation that presents material in a similar fashion to the way the brain holds information, scattered in different areas Encourages problem solving to help make abstract ideas concrete
 * __ Mind Maps __**
 * What: **

Are arrangements of ideas that can be linked together with information already in the brain Accesses both the left and right hemispheres of the brain Appeals to all learners starting at around 5 years of age Can have new ideas added quickly and easily Are helpful in any subject area Are fun and easy to create
 * Why: **

The brain pays attention to color The brain pays attention to size The brain pays attention to orientation The brain pays attention to movement
 * The importance of visualization: **

We can help encourage more neural activity and student achievement by helping students create nonlinguistic representations for the information we are presenting to them. Mind maps help students develop the power to remember.