Concept Diagram

A Concept Diagram is a graphic organizer that clarifies central concepts in a reading selection and in relating similar or associated information to this key idea. The steps to build a Concept Diagram:

Convey the central idea.
Offer the overall concept.
Note any key words.
Classify characteristics.
Explore examples and non-examples.
Practice with new examples.
Tie down the definition.

This sequence of steps provides a process for organizing and interpreting the content of a reading selection.

Steps to a Concept Diagram:

1. Select a reading text for discussion.
2. Have students identify the overall theme of the document and the major subthemes or concepts that together make up the document.
3. Ask students to write down all key words in the selection and then group these terms in logical categories.
4. Encourage students to suggest examples and non-examples of the key terms and concepts identified.
5. Have the students produce a final, formal definition of key words and concepts by combining the things they learned when categorizing the words and providing examples.

References

1. Reading Educator
2. Lenski, Susan D., Wham, Mary Ann, & Johns, Jerry L. (1999). Reading and learning strategies for middle and high school students. Dubuque, IA: Kendall/Hunt.