Thing#14~Amy Rutledge

Thing #14 is "Go with the Flow".  Many of us have probably heard of "flowcharts". Have you ever created or used one though? I think this was a great refresher activity for me. I have used flowcharts in the past, however, mind maps was a new concept for me. Flow charts are something that show a progression, or flow, of steps you would take for a process. For example, you can do a flow chart showing the steps you would take in making a cake, or solving a mathematical equation. Mind maps are more of a brainstorming of ideas. I did a mind map of things I could or should do over spring break. I put "spring break" as my central idea and put all of my "options" around my main concept. Some of my ideas where: cleaning, school work, visiting friends, read, work in flower beds, etc. While this was not an academically related mind map, it was fun working with the tools. I believe that both of these tools would be great to use in the classroom. I can teach the students how to work mathematical problems, the steps to writing a friendly letter, or brainstorm ideas for summer vacation. Almost any tool in the classroom can be made into a fun activity if you just think it out!