Dear Parents,

    Thinking Maps is a powerful learning tool that helps students record their thinking until they can decide what to do with it. Maps are not intended to be an end unto themselves, but are a tool that students can use to produce more thoughtful reading responses, writing, projects and speeches.

    By December 2010 all teachers at Timberline will be trained in using Thinking Maps. Students in all grade levels and all subject areas will use Maps as a part of their daily learning.

    Your child and your child’s teacher will be a wonderful resource for helping you understand the eight Maps.

    Thinking Maps have been researched extensively. The Maps reflect the eight types of thinking our brains do and the ways our brains organize information.  The eight types of thinking are: defining, describing, categorizing, sequencing, analogies, whole to part, compare and contrast, and cause and effect.

    Below, you will find a list of all the Thinking Maps along with examples and key words that trigger the use of that Map.

    If you have more questions about how your child is using Maps in the classroom, please contact your child’s teacher.

Sincerely,

Susan Snowdon

Principal