What are Graphical Organisers?
Graphical organisers are visual tools that help you organise information, make connections, and enhance your understanding of complex concepts. Let’s dive into four popular graphical organisers: Double Bubbles, T-charts, Venn diagrams and Tarsia jigsaws.
Double Bubble
Imagine you have two topics, and you want to compare and contrast them to identify similarities and differences. For example, you might compare and contrast two historical events, two characters from a novel, two scientific theories, or two economic principles. That's where Double Bubbles come in handy! In the context of physics, it could be that you want to compare nuclear fission and fusion, series and parallel circuits, or specific heat capacity and specific latent heat.
How Does it Work?
Draw two large bubbles with a gap between them, one for each topic, at the centre of your paper or digital canvas. Alternatively, you can use a printed template. Write the name of the first topic in one bubble and the name of the second topic in the other bubble. In between, create smaller bubbles to list the similarities between the two topics. These similarities should be elements or characteristics that are shared by both topics. Next, create another set of smaller bubbles around each central bubble to list the differences between the two topics. These differences should highlight the distinct features or aspects of each topic that set them apart from each other.
Here's an example of a completed double bubble used to highlight key similarities and differences between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion in the National 5 Physics Radiation topic.
Below is a blank template that I use with my classes regularly.
T-chart
T-charts are perfect for organising information into two columns. They work well for comparing pros and cons, cause and effect, true or false lists or any two sets of data.
How Does it Work?
For example, if you're studying the advantages and disadvantages of using renewable energy sources, draw a large "T" on your page, or use a printed template. Label the left column "Advantages" and the right column "Disadvantages." Then, fill in each column with the relevant information. The visual separation enables you to see the positive and negative aspects clearly.
Here's an example of a completed T-Chart used to create a list of true and false statements about projectile motion in the National 5 Physics Dynamics topic.
Below is a blank template that I use with my classes regularly.
Venn Diagram
Similar to a Double Bubble, Venn diagrams are excellent for examining the relationships between two or more sets of data. They consist of overlapping circles that represent each set, with the overlapping regions displaying shared characteristics.
How Does it Work?
Suppose you're comparing three types of government systems: democracy, monarchy, and dictatorship. Draw three circles overlapping in the centre, or use a printed template. Label each circle with one of the government types. In the overlapping areas, write down characteristics shared by two or more government types. This graphical organiser makes it simple to identify the similarities and differences between different systems.
Here's an example of a completed Venn diagram used to display the relationship between series and parallel circuits in the National 5 Physics Electricity topic.
Below is a blank template in case you want to use it.
Tarsia Jigsaws
Tarsia jigsaws are an innovative and interactive tool that can transform the way you revise. They turn the sometimes monotonous task of studying into a fun and engaging activity, enhancing your ability to remember and understand information.
How Does it Work?
Tarsia jigsaws are essentially educational puzzles. They consist of shapes such as triangles, hexagons, or squares, each piece containing snippets of information. Typically, one side of a piece has a question or a prompt, and another side has the corresponding answer or related information. The objective is to match the questions with the correct answers, fitting the pieces together to form a complete shape.
Here's an example of a Tarsia jigsaw that I use with my National 5 classes to help them learn definitions for the Space topic. The completed triangle shape is shown, which is what students are trying to aim for.
Mr Barton's website (https://www.mrbartonmaths.com/rich/tarsia-jigsaw.html) has loads of great hints and tips on how to create your own Tarsia jigsaws, as well as detailed instructions on how to download the free software.
Practical Tips for Studying Using Graphical Organisers
Start Simple: Begin with basic organisers like T-charts and Venn diagrams before moving on to more complex ones like double bubbles and Tarsia jigsaws. This will build your confidence and skills gradually.
Be Consistent: Use the same type of organiser for similar tasks to create a routine. Consistency helps reinforce your learning habits.
Get Creative: Don’t be afraid to use colours, symbols, and drawings to make your organisers visually appealing. The more engaging they are, the more likely you are to remember the information.
Collaborate: Work with classmates, parents, or carers to create and discuss your organisers. Teaching others is one of the best ways to reinforce your own learning.
Review and Revise: Regularly review your organisers and update them as you learn more. This not only helps solidify your knowledge but also ensures your notes are always current.
Conclusion
Graphical organisers are powerful tools that can revolutionise your studying experience. Whether you're using Double Bubbles for comparison, T-charts for organising data, Venn diagrams for relationships or Tarsia jigsaws for matching, these visual aids will make your revision sessions more engaging and effective. Remember to keep your organisers clear, colourful, and concise, and practice active learning to maximise their benefits.
Source: Teachings in Education (YouTube)
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