Using Mind Mapping as a Scaffolding Tool

Ask learner pairs to brainstorm all the things they associate with the topic "Getting a Job" in two minutes. Share the list with the class.

Sometimes big topics like getting a job are difficult to organize. Using mind mapping can make organizing the topic much easier. (show an example of a mind map) As pairs, take a sheet of paper and create a mind map for the brainstorm list you just created.

As a class identify the main branches in getting a job.

They might include Career Goals, Resume, Cover Letter, Job Searching Strategies, Interview Prep, Skills and Training, Time Management.

Assign each learner pair one of the main branches.

Gather colored pens/pencils and large sheets of paper for pairs to use to create their mind maps.

As a pair take the Main Branch assigned and create sub-branches. Use the mind map to organize (scaffold) your ideas.

Ideas of Sub-branches:

• Career Goals: Target insdustries, job titles, salary goals
• Resume: update format, keywords, accomplishments
• Interview Prep: practice questions, attire, elevator pitch
• job-search strategies: job boards, networking, social media presence, job alerts, tailoring applications
• Interview Prep: common questions, company research, mock interviews, body language, interview formats
• Skills & Training: skill assessment (identify current strengths) highlight gaps based on job listings, technical skills (software tools Google, Microsoft, use of Internet), Soft skills (communication, time management, problem solving
• Time Management: daily job search schedule, prioritization, use of tools (Google Calendar, Trello), goal setting

Share Mind Maps with the class.

Demonstrate creating a Mind Map using Canva. Discuss the steps for getting a free Canva Account and Finding the Mind mapping templates. Select a template and us it to demonstrate making a mind map. Demonstrate how to share the mind map depending on how you want to share them as a class.(Go to Share-top right-See all: Choose one of the categories:Share, Save, Social, or Messaging depending on how you want learners to share their mind maps) For example, you can have them share them with you in a shared Google Drive Slides presentation

As pairs, learners create a mind map of their assigned topic using Canva. Share it with the class. Use the Document Using Canva to Create a Mind Map

As a class share the presentations, done as pairs or on a single Slides Presentation. Each pair explains their own slide.

As a class, first as pairs then as a class discuss 

1. What surprised you?
2. Did the map help clarify the topic?
3. What are other ways you could use mind mapping?

In pairs, brainstorm 5 ways to use mind mapping --as a class select a Next Project