Charlie and Kelly
T: Today, we are going to read a text. The topic of the text is ‘school’.
T: Before we read though, let’s discuss today’s topic using the “mind-map” method.
Do you know what a mind-map is? Let me introduce you to the method by giving you and example I’ll create:
T: I’ll draw a circle on the board. [Draw a circle and write down today's topic in the circle.)
Now, you can add your ideas related to this topic, 'school', to this circle.
What are some related words and phrases? Raise your hand if you can think of one.
[After collecting a few words and phrases from the group:]
OK. You can connect the ideas these words express by drawing lines.
Divide your ideas into subcategories and expand your ideas that have something to do with them. Make as many words and connections as possible.
[Write down some example categories and words on the mind-map on the board]
T: Do you understand how to draw a mind-map? Can you do it by yourself or with a parner?
OK. now, pair up. I’ll give you a piece of paper for each pair.
On the paper, copy the mind-map on the board and extend your own mind-map by discussing it with your partner. I’ll give you 5 minutes.
[After the pairs are finished:]
T: Now, we will combine two pairs together. All four of you will compare your mind-maps and exchange ideas about why you chose those words and why you connected with lines the way you did in the first activity. I’ll give you 3 minutes.
[After the groups of 4 finish]
T: Now, get back into your original pairs. And I will hand out today’s text.
Read the text with your partner.
After you read it, add what you learned from it to your pair’s mind-map. I’ll give you 5 minutes.
[After all pairs are finished:]
T: Finished? Now, let’s discuss this topic together as a class sharing all our ideas.
Tell me about the additions you made to the mind-map after you read the story.
[Students give the teacher their ideas, and the teacher writes them on the board.]
[If the teacher things of more things to add, he can write them down on the board too.]
Click on images to enlarge.
The activity comes from the book: Language Activities for Teenagers