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Graphic Organizers 101: Why and How To Use Them

An incredibly valuable tool for every student, every subject.

Even if you’ve never heard of graphic organizers, chances are good you’ve been using them in one form or another all your life. That pros and cons list you made before making a big purchase? The family tree you’re working on? Your school’s org chart? They’re all graphic organizers. Here’s what you need to know about using this powerful tool with students of all ages.

What are graphic organizers?

Source: @thecomfortableclassroom

Put simply, graphic organizers are a way of organizing information visually to help students understand and remember it. They’re tools that let kids make connections, create a plan, and communicate effectively. A good organizer simplifies complex information and lays it out in a way that makes it easier for a learner to digest. Graphic organizers may include text and images, depending on the purpose and student’s learning style.

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How do I use them?

Source: @yourteacherbestie

You can provide students with pre-printed organizers or encourage them to draw their own. Either way, teach students how to use them by modeling the behavior first. Consider making anchor charts for commonly used types so students can refer back to them as they work.

With younger students, work to help them understand how to choose certain types of organizers depending on their goals. For instance, students taking notes while they study may find a concept map most helpful. When comparing two topics, a Venn diagram or T chart is probably the best choice. Here are some ways to use graphic organizers in various subjects (and explanations of them below).

Language Arts

• Use a story map or story mountain to diagram the characters, setting, and key plot points.
• Try a web organizer to keep track of character relations and connections.
• Learn vocabulary words with a Frayer model that lays out meaning, synonyms, examples, and illustrations.
• Map out the topic, main ideas, and supporting facts of an essay before you start writing.
• Use a story map or mountain to plan creative writing.

Math and Science

• Use a Frayer model to define and understand terms and formulas.
• Compare two or more concepts with a Venn diagram (like area and perimeter).
• Create a visual representation to solve a story problem.
• Plan an experiment with a sequence organizer.
• Start the exploration of a new topic with a KWL organizer to understand what students already know, what they want to learn, and what they do learn.
• Draw a timeline to understand the order of events in history.
• Use idea webs or concept maps to keep track of information as you read and help you study.
• Dig deeper into a topic with a cause and effect organizer.

What types of graphic organizers should I use in my classroom?

Graphic organizers come in a wide array of styles. Here are some of the most common types to try with your students.

Source: Mrs. Byrd’s Learning Tree

This is one of the first organizers many kids learn to use. For little ones, story maps are simple, laying out the setting, characters, and beginning, middle, and end. Older students can expand the map to take in more details.

Timeline and Sequence of Events

Source: Growing Kinders

Here are two more common organizers kids will recognize. Timelines are generally used in history and social studies classes, though they can be helpful when reading books too. Use sequencing organizers to lay out the steps of a procedure or science experiment.

Story Mountain

Source: @goodmorningmissbagge

A story mountain is helpful both when reading and preparing to write. Students map out a story from start to finish, building up to a climax and back down to the conclusion.

Source: Mrs. Kurt’s All Star Kindergarten Blog

KWL (What I K now, What I W onder, What I L earned) charts are a terrific way to help kids think about what they want to learn about a topic and hold them responsible for actually finding out that information. The first column is a list of everything they already know. The second column lists what they’d like to learn, and the third one provides new information acquired along the way.

Source: Krazy for Kindergarten Goes to Third Grade

When there’s a lot of information to remember about a subject, idea webs are a terrific way to organize it all. It’s a more interesting way to explore a subject than just making a list or taking notes and one that’s more likely to help kids actually remember the information.

Concept Map

Source: Evidence-Based Teaching

A concept map takes an idea web to the next level. It’s really a series of idea webs, with connections drawn between. These can get very large, so encourage older students to explore online programs that can help them create useful diagrams.

Source: Joyful Learning in KC

Circle maps are terrific for brainstorming or thoroughly understanding a specific concept. In some cases, circles can continue to expand outward. For instance, a circle map could begin with your hometown in the middle, with a larger circle for your state, another for your country, then your continent, and so on. Inside each circle, students write info relevant to that subject.

Source: A Learning Journey

Graphic organizers are especially useful when planning any kind of writing. OREO and Hamburger models are common, but you’ll find a lot of other options out there too. The key is to make sure the organizer helps students define their main idea, gather supporting evidence, and draw a conclusion supported by the facts.

Frayer Model (Vocabulary)

Source: What I Have Learned

The Frayer model has a lot of uses but is most often applied to vocabulary. The term goes in the middle, with four sections surrounding it for definition, characteristics, examples, and non-examples. Another version has sections for definition, synonym, an illustration, and using the term in a sentence.

Cause and Effect Graphic Organizer

Source: Around the Kampfire

When you want students to dig deeper into the material, try a cause and effect organizer. You can use it in pretty much any subject to make connections between actions and results.

Source: @ducksntigers13

A T chart is a very simple way to compare two related subjects. Many people use these all the time, especially when writing pros and cons lists.

Venn Diagram

Source: Teach With Me

A Venn diagram is another way to compare and contrast material, looking for similarities and differences. The simplest version has two overlapping circles, with more overlapping circles added for more complex subjects.

Where can I find free graphic organizer printables?

While you don’t need to use a pre-printed organizer every time, they can be especially helpful with younger students as they learn how this valuable tool works. The internet is full of graphic organizer printables, both free and for purchase on sites like Teachers Pay Teachers. Here are some free options we’ve created for teachers to try.

• Summary Graphic Organizer
• Summarizing Graphic Organizers (Grades 2-4)
• Predictions and Inferences Organizer
• Scientific Method Graphic Organizer
• Continents Graphic Organizer

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Plus, anchor charts 101: why and how to use them ..

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12 Graphic Organizer Examples for Teachers and Students

Every teacher wants their students to fully understand the concepts taught in class. However, you may encounter topics that are difficult to teach and understand. It is necessary to employ an innovative approach in order to assist students in comprehending a challenging subject.

Graphic organizers are powerful tools that make complex concepts easier to teach and understand. They also help students develop visual literacy skills . Teachers find graphic organizers helpful for explaining difficult concepts, and students find them engaging. Graphic organizers are also great for presenting research data if, for example, the teacher wants to share a case study with students.

Now, what if you could quickly find and customize graphic organizers without spending hours brainstorming from scratch?Because there is a sea of engaging templates to choose from, you can create compelling visuals with just a few clicks. These graphics can be used for a number of different purposes, including teaching. With Piktochart, you can access and customize engaging graphic organizer templates in minutes – no design skills required. Simply create a free account to get started.

In this article, we will look at the 12 graphic organizer examples that greatly assist teachers and help students retain information for a longer period of time. 

What is a Graphic Organizer?

Graphic organizers are tools that help visually organize information and complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand and memorize. Graphic organizers effectively organize and visualize information by creating links between concepts or facts. By visually illustrating the relationships between concepts, graphic organizers make it easier to analyze and internalize information. 

We know that every mind works differently. Presenting information in a systematic, visual format enables students to follow along at their own pace and grasp relationships more easily than via verbal explanation alone. They can also be an invaluable tool for visual learners.

12 Graphic Organizer Examples for Different Learning Objectives

There are countless types of graphic organizers out there, as information can be organized and visualized in many different ways. We’ll focus on 12 of the most helpful types of graphic organizers for teachers and students, organized by the primary purpose each one serves.

Graphic Organizers for Brainstorming and Organizing Ideas

Some graphic organizers are specifically great for organizing ideas for brainstorming. Here are three examples. 

Mind maps are graphic organizers that organize information in a structured and visually attractive fashion. When a mind map is finished, you will get a structure that looks like a spider web. An example of the graphic organizer is the following mind map on Piktochart . It shows the values of a company, with different values branching out from the central idea, that is, company values . 

We all know that information retention can become quite difficult, especially when a number of different subtopics link to one main topic. A student could use a mind map to break down the taxonomy of living things, with ‘Organisms’ in the center, ‘Kingdoms’ branching out one level, ‘Phyla’ branching out from each ‘Kingdom’ and so on.  

Concept Map

Concept maps are another type of graphic organizer that excels at representing hierarchical information. They use boxes or circles to represent different concepts, with lines or arrows labeled to illustrate the relationships between them.

Concept maps have many uses in educational settings. They help in the sequential understanding of different concepts for students. For example, if a teacher has to break down a country’s government structure, he or she will most likely use a concept map to show the branches and subbranches of different government institutions systematically. 

Cluster Diagram

Cluster or cloud diagrams help brainstorm different ideas around a main concept. This type of graphic organizer is called a cluster because the topic or ideas related to the main idea form a cluster around it. For example, a cluster diagram can assist students determine how much they know about a topic and what areas need further research.

 This type of graphic organizer is very useful when generating ideas for a project or planning its different phases. Cluster diagrams break down a complex subject into smaller parts, both for individuals and for groups, for example, during defining scope of a project in its early stage.  

Graphic Organizers for Comparing and Contrasting

 The next type of graphic organizer helps you to compare two or more concepts. You can use this organizer to compare and contrast ideas, people, events, and policies. For instance, say you’re teaching a unit on different forms of government. You could use a compare and contrast graphic organizer to help students parse out key similarities and differences between a democracy and a dictatorship. This type of graphic organizer will be your go-to option. 

It is important to know that when you use this type of graphic organizer to compare two concepts, you are covering both the similarities and differences between those concepts. However, with contrast, only the differences are mentioned. Some examples of this category of graphic organizers are given below.

Venn Diagram

A Venn Diagram usually comprises two to three overlapping circles. The commonalities between the concepts are written in the shared or overlapping area, whereas all the distinct or unique features are mentioned in the part of the circle that does not overlap with any other circle. 

For example, you could have your students draw Venn diagram for the fruits and vegetables that red or orange. The common area between the two circles will contain vegetables like tomatoes that come in both these categories. The Venn diagram below shows the comparison of mitosis and meiosis. 

Another brilliant graphic organizer for comparing and contrasting is the “T Chart.” A T-chart is simply a table with two columns, usually comparing two items or ideas, or sorting data into categories. This type of graphic organizer is super quick to create and easy to understand, especially for students. T charts can also be used to categorize and jot down pros and cons.

The T chart is a popular option for both teachers and students because its layout is straightforward, and it offers a wide array of functions. For example, if the students are planning to go on a field trip but are not able to choose a location, then T charts can help a great deal. 

Teachers can ask the students to make a T chart of potential places and list the advantages and disadvantages of each of the locations in their respective columns. Also, a T chart is a great graphic organizer to show upsides and downsides of a topic.

Graphic Organizers for Sequencing and Cause-Effect

Next on the list are graphic organizers, which show the sequence or timeline of events. Sequence and timeline graphic organizers are particularly useful for teachers when presenting events in chronological order is important. Some of the graphic organizers that help students visualize the relationships between steps in a process or links in a chain of events are as follows.

A timeline graphic organizer shows a sequence of events in chronological order. History subjects make great use of timelines . Because major historical events can be shown in a proper sequence using a timeline. Along with dates, timelines give the flexibility to mention locations as well. For example, a timeline of the American Revolution could chart major turning points like the Boston Tea Party, the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and the Battle of Yorktown.

Timelines can also be used to show how a certain phenomenon has progressed over time, such as a business’s growth. The Piktochart timeline template below charts key events in the life and reign of Queen Elizabeth II. Notice how the combination of images and concise text makes the chronology engaging and easy to follow. 

This type of graphic organizer shows the steps of a process and how all the steps combine in a sequence to make the process happen. Flowcharts systematically and clearly document and communicate how a process works and what steps are involved in it, from start to finish. When a process is mapped using a flowchart , potential areas or steps of improvement can be identified. 

Cause and Effect Diagram

As the name suggests, a cause-and-effect diagram groups those causes of a problem that either have already happened or might happen. Relationships between different contributing factors can also be shown using a cause-and-effect diagram.

Often referred to as an Ishikawa diagram, or a fishbone diagram, a cause-and-effect visual is one of the basic tools of quality . While often associated with root cause analysis in business and manufacturing, cause-and-effect diagrams are equally powerful for getting to the bottom of issues in the classroom. By mapping out all the potential contributing factors to a problem, students can start to identify patterns and actionable solution.

Source: Noria Corporation

Graphic Organizers for Main Idea and Supporting Details

This category of graphic organizers shows a main idea and its supporting ideas. It defines and visualizes a core concept and all its supporting details. It is a great tool that helps students develop an outline of a topic for better understanding. Some of the examples are given below.

Main Idea Web

This type of graphic organizer starts with a main idea and branches out into related sub-ideas. The key point behind web graphic organizers is sometimes referred to as a light bulb. It is predominantly  used to brainstorm ideas for writing purposes. For example, if a student wrote a report on photosynthesis, they could put “photosynthesis” in the center, then branch out to related subtopics like ‘chloroplasts’, ‘light-dependent reactions’, etc.

Herringbone Diagram

A herringbone diagram is used when processes are involved. This type of web organizer helps you break down variations in a process or causes that lead up to an effect. A herringbone diagram is particularly important for avoiding an event before it happens.

Graphic Organizers for Writing and Note-taking

Another group of graphic organizers we’ll explore focuses on writing and note-taking. Writing, especially essays, proves challenging for many students as they struggle with arranging ideas. Here are a couple of graphic organizers for writing, which can be of great help to you.

Essay writing is an important skill that students use throughout their lives. An essay map graphic organizer is a brilliant tool for students, as it helps them to chalk out the outline in a systematic manner without missing any detail. Once a student is done with his or her essay map, writing becomes a walk in the park.

Cornell Map

This graphic organizer is a popular technique for note-taking. Particularly during lectures and textbook reading, the Cornell Map template comes in handy as it helps students to jot down all the important ideas and information systematically. It usually has a cue column, a note-taking column, and a summary section. 

When students are taking notes, the key ideas, important dates, formulas and other such details would go into the “note-taking” column. They will add questions, cues, and headings in the “cue” column. Whereas, the “summary” section will include a summary of the notes as one or two key learning outcomes. This helps students identify important details when they revise their notes later on.  

Tips for Using Graphic Organizers Effectively

It is important for teachers to use graphic organizers in a manner that maximizes the chances of effective learning. Some of the tips to make sure a graphic organizer effective are given below.

• Simple is Always Better —Your graphic organizers must always be simple. This will help students learn quickly. For example, avoid complete sentences unless absolutely necessary.
• Offer a Variety of Graphic Organizers – Expose your students to different types of graphic organizers day-to-day. This will bring out the best in them in terms of creativity.
• Use the to Assess Student Learning – Give the students a task along with a graphic organizer focused on the skill in focus. Use their graphic organizers to assess their standing in the class. 
• Use them Frequently —Using graphic organizers frequently helps students internalize what is being taught. The more often students use these tools to engage with content, the more adept they’ll become at using them independently. 

A graphic organizer is a tool for teachers to explain complex problems to their students. Similarly, graphic organizers help students visualize the information being taught in class. 

There are different graphic organizers, each suited to a specific purpose or thinking process. Whether it’s brainstorming ideas, comparing and contrasting, sequencing events, mapping out an essay, or taking structured notes, there’s a graphic organizer that can help.Teachers can encourage their students to generate ideas by using graphic organizers in their lessons. Students can use graphic organizers to enhance their writing skills.

Piktochart is a one-stop solution that lets you create your own graphic organizer within seconds. It has both one-pager templates and multi-pager templates to cater to all kinds of requirements. Sign up on Piktochart now and make learning fun!

Wajahat is a technology writer with almost 4 years of experience in tech, data, IoT, and networking. He holds degrees in engineering and finance, offering insights into technology's role in business and productivity.

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Upper Elementary Teaching Blog

Free Vocabulary Graphic Organizers

Working with new words in a variety of ways helps build vocabulary knowledge. One strategy for working with words is to use vocabulary graphic organizers. Vocabulary graphic organizers are visual tools that help students organize and explore the relationships between words, their meanings, related concepts, and much more. These organizers provide a structured framework for students to analyze and understand new vocabulary in a more visual format. This post shares 13 free vocabulary organizers that are a great way to get your students working with new vocabulary words in a visual way.

About the Free Vocabulary Graphic Organizers

#1 Part of Speech, Definition, and Use in a Sentence

This organizer focuses on the word’s function in a sentence and helps improve grammar skills.

#2 Definition and Use in Three Sentences

This organizer is useful for getting students to use a new word in a variety of contexts.

#3 Definition, Synonyms, and Antonyms

This organizer helps students understand not only the word’s meaning but also its relationship to other words.

#4 Definition, Use in a Sentence, Synonyms, and Antonyms

This vocabulary graphic organizer helps students understand not only the word’s meaning but also its context in a sentence and its relationship to other words.

#5 Synonyms and Antonyms

This organizer is great for exploring words with multiple synonyms and antonyms.

#6 Definition, Example, and Non-Examples

This organizer helps students explore words by listing examples that fit the meaning and ones that don’t.

#7 Definition, Characteristics/Features, Examples, and Non-Examples

This organizer helps students distinguish the word from others based on its unique characteristics.

#8 Multiple Meaning Word

To complete this vocabulary organizer, students will write up to three meanings of a word and use each in sentences. This is especially useful for understanding other words with multiple meanings.

#9 Definition and Visual

By drawing a picture or symbol that represents the word, students create a visual memory aid.

#10 Definition, Sentence, Illustration, and Personal Connection

This organizer aids memory retention by connecting the new word to a visual and a student’s personal experiences.

#11 Definition, Word Origin, and Etymology

This deepens students’ understanding of language history and how words evolve over time.

#12 Word Concept Map

This graphic organizer helps visualize the word’s connections to other words and concepts.

#13 Shades of Meaning Gradient

This gradient-style graphic organizer helps students understand word meaning nuances and improves their descriptive abilities.

Multiple Versions Included

There are multiple versions of the vocabulary graphic organizers included.

• Full-Page Landscape Version – Great for going in a binder or vocabulary folder. *Cover included if you want to create a stapled booklet!
• Half-Page Version – Perfect for interactive notebooks. *Cover included to paste on the front of a composition book!
• Digital Version – Ready to assign in Google Slides!

Example completed graphic organizers are also included to help you introduce and explicitly model and teach your expectations for each organizer.

Using the Vocabulary Organizers

Incorporate Into Existing Vocabulary Instruction

• These vocabulary organizers can be used with your existing vocabulary instruction. Have students select (or you select) a word from their vocabulary words for the week to complete with the organizer. The organizer then becomes a tool for deep exploration of that word. The students can research the word, discuss their findings, and fill in the organizer individually or in groups.

Use in a Vocabulary Notebook

• A vocabulary notebook, an essential tool in vocabulary development, can be significantly enhanced by incorporating these vocabulary graphic organizers.

Use with Vocabulary Warmups

• After completing the daily vocabulary warmup , students can use one of the graphic organizers to reinforce their understanding of the word. This enables students to explore new vocabulary in multiple ways, providing a richer understanding of each word.

Get the Free Vocabulary Graphic Organizers Here!

Need Vocabulary Resources?

If you need engaging vocabulary resources, check out these Vocabulary Warmups (Printable + Digital)! These can be paired with the organizers to enhance vocabulary instruction. The bundle includes 6 different warmups and 205 different words . There’s more than enough for every day of the school year!

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Vocabulary Warmups for 4th and 5th Grade: BUNDLE with Digital Slides

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July 12, 2023 at 7:35 am

I would love the organizers to use in small group

July 13, 2023 at 5:19 pm

These would be great for my class!

July 18, 2023 at 6:00 pm

July 25, 2023 at 8:22 am

July 31, 2023 at 4:35 am

Love these !!

September 18, 2023 at 10:01 am

Hi, This resource looks great, however the link at the bottom of the page isn’t working. Would it be possible to get a copy? thanks!

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The Ultimate List of Graphic Organizers for Teachers and Students

Graphic organizers integrate both text and visuals. This has been scientifically proven to be an effective way of teaching and learning. Using them can be extremely useful for both teachers and students as they will make lessons more engaging as well as easily comprehensible.

We have listed below multiple types of graphic organizers you can use during various scenarios, whether you are reading, writing, doing research or studying for exams. Each tool is accompanied by a template that you can use right away.

1. What are Graphic Organizers

1.1. Benefits of graphic organizers

2. Types of Graphic Organizers

2.1. Graphic Organizers for Writing

2.1.1. 1. Persuasion map

2.1.2. 2. Sequence Chart

2.2. Graphic Organizers for Reading

2.2.1. 3. Story map

2.2.2. 4. Biography graphic organizer

2.2.3. 5. KWL chart

2.3. Graphic Organizers for Teaching

2.3.1. 6. Learning map

2.3.2. 7. Analogy graphic organizer

2.3.3. 8. Vocabulary graphic organizer

2.3.4. 9. Problem-solving organizer

2.3.5. 10. Math Graphic Organizer

2.4. Graphic Organizers for Learning

2.4.1. 11. Timeline graphic organizer

2.4.2. 12. T chart

2.4.3. 13. Hierarchy chart

2.4.4. 14. Star diagram

2.5. Graphic Organizers for Brainstorming

2.5.1. 15. Cluster diagram

2.5.2. 16. Lotus diagram

2.5.3. 17. Cause and effect graphic organizer

2.5.4. 18. Mind map

2.6. Graphic Organizers for Compare and Contrast

2.6.1. 19. Double bubble map

2.6.2. 20. Venn diagram

2.6.2.1. Add to Our List of Graphic Organizers for Teachers and Students

What are Graphic Organizers

A graphic organizer is a teaching and learning tool that is used to organize information and ideas in a way that is easy to comprehend and internalize. By integrating text and visuals, graphic organizers show relationships and connections between concepts, terms, and facts.

Graphic organizers can be used in all grade levels, and have proven to be effective learning tools for gifted children and students with special needs. And with adult learners, graphic organizers can help enable the connection between what they already know and newly acquired knowledge.

Benefits of graphic organizers

Different types of graphic organizers can be used across the curriculum for teaching, learning, and note-taking. They are easy to create and impactful in simplifying information.

• Help visualize or present information in a way that is easier to comprehend, by breaking down larger or complex concepts or ideas into smaller and simpler parts.
• Provide students the opportunity to actively contribute and participate in the learning process through the creation of graphic organizers.  
• Help develop cognitive skills such as brainstorming, critical and, categorizing and prioritizing content, reflection, etc.
• Help recall prior knowledge about a subject and quickly connect it to new information
• Promotes self-learning. By using graphic organizers for note-taking, analyzing, studying, etc. students can familiarize themselves with a lesson far more easily.

Types of Graphic Organizers

Here we have listed 19 types of graphic organizers for teaching and learning. Based on their varied purposes, you can utilize them in reading, writing, researching, brainstorming, and analyzing.

Graphic Organizers for Writing

1. persuasion map.

The persuasion map is an interactive graphic organizer that helps students familiarize themselves with the process of persuasive writing .  It assists them with outlining and preparing arguments for their essays, speeches, debates, etc.

How to use it

Step 1: Choose a topic of interest for your essay/debate. Do proper research around it to collect enough information.

Step 2: Define the claim that you want to make with your essay. Persuasive writing by writing this down first.

Step 3: Next to it, write down the reasons for making that claim.

Step 4: Then write down facts, examples, and information to back up your reasoning.

Step 5: End your persuasion map with the conclusion of your essay.

2. Sequence Chart

A sequence graphic organizer is a tool that helps visualize the order of steps of a process or a timeline of events, etc. It can also be used for note-taking, lesson planning, and essay writing.

Step 1: Identify the steps in the process or event.

Step 2: Using a sequence chart arrange these steps in sequential order.

Graphic Organizers for Reading

3. story map.

A story map can be used to identify the different elements such as characters, character plots, themes, techniques, etc. in a book students are reading. It’s a useful tool that teachers can integrate into the lesson to improve students’ comprehension.

Step 1: Read the book and understand it well.

Step 2: Discuss the different significant elements that were involved in the story. These could be the characters, setting, problem and solution, etc. You can fill the story map during the discussion.

Step 3: Once the map is complete you can discuss each element individually.

4. Biography graphic organizer

This is a tool that assists with understanding a character from a novel, autobiography or movie or a historical figure more in-depth. It brings attention to various important factors about a person’s life.

How to create it

Step 1: Gather as much information you can about the character you are studying. You can also refer to online resources, or ask from teachers or experts.

Step 2: As you analyze the information you have gathered, isolate the facts that stand out or you think are important.

Step 3: Use your biography graphic organizer to lay out the information in a presentable way. You can add images to make it more comprehensible as well.

5. KWL chart

KWL chart is used for gathering information from student’s prior knowledge or experience. This 3 column chart captures the before (what the reader already knows), during (what the reader wants to learn) and after (what the reader learned) stages of reading.

Step 1: Get students to brainstorm around the selected topic and write down everything they know about it in the K column.

Step 2: Ask them to generate a list of questions about what they want to know in the W column of the chart.

Step 3: During or after reading the book/ lesson get them to answer these questions in the L column.

Graphic Organizers for Teaching

6. learning map.

Learning maps visually depict the key takeaways – skills, ideas, knowledge – students should get from a lesson. It usually provides a high-level view of the lesson/ unit/ course that is to be studied and the connection between its different components. Students can also use learning maps in the classroom for note-taking.

Step 1: At the center of the map, write down the topic (i.e. name of the lesson or unit)

Step 2: Brainstorm ideas and information related to it. Write these down on branches emerging from the center. Make sure that you place them in a way that makes sense to teach or in a logical sequence around the center.

Step 3: Add connectors between these elements and add labels to highlight the kind of relationship between them.

7. Analogy graphic organizer

The analogy graphic organizer uses analogy to help students identify similarities and differences between a new topic and a topic that they are already familiar with.

Step 1: Select a topic/ concept that the students already know and is analogous in certain aspects to the new topic

Step 2:  Introduce the new concept and get the students to read and discuss it

Step 3: Using an analogy graphic organizer, ask the students to brainstorm and write similarities and differences between the two topics.

Step 4: Based on the completed graphic organizer, ask the students to write a brief description of  the new topic

Analogy Graphic Organizer (Click on the template to edit it online)

8. Vocabulary graphic organizer

This tool can be used to assess the vocabulary knowledge of students. You can create graphic organizers including various elements to help students learn new words, and learn antonyms and synonyms.

9. Problem-solving organizer

Problem-solving graphic organizers can be used to improve the problem-solving skills of the students. It helps students identify and evaluate solutions to problems.

Step 1: Identify the problem and write it in the problem box

Step 2: Ask students to then write down why they think it is a problem in the first place

Step 3: Get them to brainstorm all possible solutions along with the pros and cons relates to them.

Step 4: Once they select the best possible solution, ask them to list down all its possible consequences

Step 5: Students can then make suggestions to improve the selected solution further

10. Math Graphic Organizer

Math graphic organizers are used to describe math concepts graphically to students. It helps with simplifying and solving complex math problems.

Step 1: Select the math problem you want to identify and a relevant graphic organizer that you can use to solve it.

Step 2: Invite your students or colleagues to collaborate as you wish.

Graphic Organizers for Learning

11. timeline graphic organizer.

Timeline diagrams are a type of graphic organizer that shows a sequence of events in chronological order.

They come in handy when studying history as you can use it to display major historical events that occurred during a period of time along with important details such as dates and locations in which they took place.

In addition, timeline charts can also be used to show the progress of something (i.e. growth of a business) or changes.

Step 1: Identify the different events and the sequence of order in which they took place.

Step 2: Use a research on your target audience to arrange them chronologically

Step 3: Include significant details such as dates, locations and other additional information as needed.

12. T  chart

T charts allow students to study two facets of a topic. For example, disadvantages and advantages, pros and cons, differences and similarities, etc.

Step 1: Draw a T chart and write down the two areas you want to brainstorm around on each column head.

Step 2: Write down facts on each column as you carry out your brainstorming.

13. Hierarchy chart

Hierarchy charts visualize the elements of a system, organization or concept from its highest position to the lowest. Students can use this tool to understand the superordinate and subordinate categories of a topic and the relationship between them.

Step 1: Identify the most important element under the topic you are studying. Write this down at the top of the hierarchy chart.

Step 2: List down the second layer of sub-elements stemming from the first component you have identified. Add a third and fourth as necessary.

Step 3: Connect these with lines to show how they are connected to each other.  

14. Star diagram

Star diagrams are used to organize the characteristics of a chosen topic. It can also be used to brainstorm around new topics.

Step 1:  Select the topic you want to study and write it down in the center of the star diagram .

Step 2: Write down the characteristics or attributes related to the central topics on each point of the star. Adjust the points of the star depending on how many traits you write down.

Graphic Organizers for Brainstorming

15. cluster diagram.

Cluster diagrams can be used to facilitate a brainstorming session or structure idea generation and even to help with exploring new topics.

Step 1: Pick your topic of interest to explore. This should be placed in the middle of the diagram.

Step 2: Brainstorm around this main idea and come up with sub-topics related to it. Place them around the center.

Step 3: Brainstorm around each of the sub-topics and write down related ideas around them.

Step 4: Add as many layers as you want. However, use color-coding to emphasize each branch of thought. This will make it easier for you to read and understand the cluster diagram .

16. Lotus diagram

Lotus diagram is an analytical tool that can be used to breakdown broader and more complex topics into smaller components for easy understanding. It can be used for brainstorming and studying new topics.

Step 1: Draw a 3×3 grid in the center. On the square in the center, write down the main topic to be explored.

Step 2: Write down the related sub-topics around it as you brainstorm.

Step 3: Draw 8 more 3×3 grids around the one in the center. Each of these can be used to write down facts that you brainstorm around each subtopic.

17. Cause and effect graphic organizer

This type of graphic organizer shows the causes and effects of an event. The cause is the reason why something has happened, and effect is the result of what has happened. Visualization helps clearly understand the different cause and effect relationships.  

Using a cause and effect graphic organizer , identify the causes and effects related to the problem you are studying or writing about. There could be several models of cause and effect events, such as one cause leading to one effect or multiple effects, or multiple causes leading to one effect or multiple effects.

• One cause leading to several effects
• Several causes leading to one effect (You can use a fishbone diagram here)
• Each cause having one related effect
• One cause triggering another cause that leads to another

18. Mind map

A mind map is a tool that helps capture the free flow of thought and is widely used for brainstorming around topics. Additionally, it can also be used to organize and group information about a topic.

Step 1: Write down the topic you are brainstorming around in the center.

Step 2: On branches emerging from the middle, write down brainstormed ideas/ thoughts.

Step 3: Expand each sub idea with more facts. You can keep on adding more information to your mind map until you have enough.

Graphic Organizers for Compare and Contrast

Here we have listed 19 types of graphic organizers for teaching and learning. Based on their varied purposes, you can utilize them in reading, writing, researching, brainstorming, and analyzing. Best of all you can use our Compare and Contrast Chart Maker to draw them.

19. Double bubble map

The double bubble map is one of the popular thinking maps. It is much like a Venn diagram and is used to identify similar and different qualities between two things.

How to use it?

Step 1: Write down the two ideas/ topics you are comparing in the two bubbles in the center.

Step 2: As you brainstorm and analyze the topic, write down the differences in the bubbles radiating from the center.

Step 3: Write down the similarities in the bubbles that are common to both topics.

20. Venn diagram

Another graphic organizer that helps you visually represent a comparison of differences and similarities between two subjects, is the Venn diagram. What makes it different from the is that it can include more than two topics and one common area.

It works similar to the double bubble map.

Step 1: Write down the topics being compared on the top of each circle.

Step 2: Writ down the differences or unique characteristics inside its own sector avoiding the overlapping area.

Step 3: List the similarities in the common area.

Add to Our List of Graphic Organizers for Teachers and Students

Although we have covered 19 types of graphic organizers in this post, there are plenty more that can be useful to our users. Know more? Mention in the comments section below to keep expanding the list of ultimate graphic organizers.

FAQs About list of Graphic Organizer

When selecting a graphic organizer for a specific project, you should consider the type of information you need to organize and the purpose of the project. Here are some tips on how to select the right graphic organizer:

Identify the type of information: Before selecting a graphic organizer, consider the type of information you need to organize.

Determine the purpose of the project: Consider the purpose of the project and what you want to achieve.

Consider the audience: Think about who the audience is for the project. If the audience is young children, a simpler graphic organizer like a picture web might be more appropriate. If the audience is adults, a more complex graphic organizer like a timeline or a chart could be suitable.

Evaluate the effectiveness of different graphic organizers: Try out different graphic organizers and see which ones work best for you. Creately has different graphic organizer editable templates that you could use to create your graphic organizer based on the purpose.

Be creative: Don’t be afraid to create your own graphic organizer or adapt an existing one to meet your needs. Graphic organizers are flexible tools that can be customized to fit different projects and purposes.

Avoid these common mistakes that you make to ensure that your organizer is effective in conveying information.

Avoid overcomplicating the design of your graphic organizer: It should be easy to read and understand, therefore avoid using too many colors, fonts, or shapes which make the organizer confusing and difficult to read.

Consistency is important in creating a graphic organizer. Use the same formatting, color scheme, and font throughout the organizer to ensure that it is easy to follow and understand.

The purpose of a graphic organizer is to simplify and organize information. Including too much information can defeat the purpose and make the organizer overwhelming. Stick to the most important information and use the organizer to highlight key concepts and relationships.

Use clear and appropriate labels for each section of the organizer. Avoid using labels that are too vague or unclear, as this can cause confusion and make it difficult to understand the relationships between the different elements.

Consider who the audience is for the graphic organizer and use appropriate language and images. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that may not be familiar to the audience.

Test your graphic organizer to ensure that it effectively conveys the intended information. Ask for feedback from others and make revisions as needed.

Join over thousands of organizations that use Creately to brainstorm, plan, analyze, and execute their projects successfully.

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Amanda Athuraliya is the communication specialist/content writer at Creately, online diagramming and collaboration tool. She is an avid reader, a budding writer and a passionate researcher who loves to write about all kinds of topics.

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Using Frayer Models in the Classroom

What is a frayer model.

Frayer Models Help You:

• Develop Vocabulary
• Separate Concepts into Four Main Ideas
• Showcase Four Examples

Breaking Down the Frayer Model

The Frayer Model is organized so that four boxes or sections surround a general concept or vocabulary word in the center of the organizer. The four boxes surrounding it are labeled Definition, Characteristics, Examples and Non-Examples by default.

Use in the Classroom

The Frayer Model is a beneficial vocabulary graphic organizer for all grades. In the lower grades, depending on the students’ abilities it may be beneficial to complete it as a class, with the teacher leading the discussion. Below are two examples of Frayer Models that might be used in the elementary grades in Math and ELA for vocabulary words or concepts. Some elementary students could make these on their own, while others would benefit from seeing a completed graphic organizer for more in-depth understanding.

Frayer Models are not only great for all grades, but for all subjects. All subjects will have vocabulary or concepts unique to it that students will be required to know, and vocabulary is just the beginning. The default cell layout for the Frayer Model is four cells with the above vocabulary titles. The titles can be changed from the default with a simple click. Additionally, you can easily change the cell layout to cell only, cell and description, or cell, title and description.

While the Frayer Model is most often used for vocabulary building, use this format for anything. The Frayer Model is a useful graphic organizer for brainstorming different characteristics or ideas that surround one topic. The four cells allow for a very targeted approach to brainstorming, which is ideal for students who may get carried away and need to stay focused. This graphic organizer can be used before a project begins, to brainstorm ideas that will shape research, or it can be used after a project to help retain information gathered throughout the process.

Here are a few of the amazing things our teacher authors have come up with. What will you make?

English Language Arts

Many concepts in English Language Arts are difficult to understand at first. With Frayer Models, you can break down the components of a concept into the traditional parts (Definitions, Characteristics, Examples, and Non-Examples), or you can separate the concept into four major parts.

Example Activities

• Character Analysis
• Literary Element Examples

Use the Frayer Model layout for breaking apart arguments in historical documents or specific causes or importance of a historical event.

• Text Analysis
• Significant Events

Foreign Language

Vocabulary is a part of all subjects because there are always new terms for us to learn. Often students are encouraged to get a deep understanding of new words from a list or words that they read in a text very quickly. Use a Frayer Model to help.

• Four-Part Game Boards

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

There are many complicated topics, concepts, and vocabulary in all of the STEM areas that can be parsed out into more digestible chunks. The Frayer Model is particularly useful for struggling students or for a brief review before beginning a related topic.

• Concept Examples

Applications for Special Education

Graphic organizers are great way to modify more complex written assignments for students with special needs. Students can demonstrate their understanding of vocabulary words, concepts, or special events with the use of a Frayer Model.

The added step of a graphic organizer can give some special education students the added structure they need to complete an assignment on their own. Use Frayer Models to give students a boost for an informational report. Whether using the traditional titles for the four boxes, Definition, Characteristics, Examples, and Non-Examples, or using custom titles, such as Who, What, Where, and When, the Frayer Model can set students up for success.

Make Frayer Model Worksheets

If you're looking for another step or an alternative assignment, you can create Frayer Model worksheets to use in your class! These worksheets can be customized and printed out for students to fill out with a pencil, or they can be completed in the Storyboard Creator like a digital worksheet. You can even create multiple versions for those students who might need a little extra help, and keep them on hand for future use! Find plenty of templates to work from or just start with a blank canvas.

Related Activities

Check out these Frayer Model activities from our guides on Introduction to Geometry , Bridge to Terabithia , and Red Kayak .

How to Use the Frayer Model for Concept Mapping

Select the concept.

Choose a specific concept or idea that you want students to explore and understand through concept mapping using the Frayer Model. Ensure that the concept is appropriate for the grade level and aligns with the learning objectives.

Introduce the Frayer Model

Introduce the Frayer Model to students, explaining its purpose as a tool for concept mapping. Highlight that the model helps them organize their thoughts and visually represent the different aspects of the concept.

Complete the Frayer Model

Guide students in completing the Frayer Model graphic organizer for the selected concept. In the center box, have them write the concept or idea. In the surrounding boxes, prompt them to identify and define essential characteristics, provide examples and non-examples, and make connections or associations related to the concept.

Discuss and Share

Facilitate a class discussion where students can share and discuss their completed Frayer Models. Encourage them to explain their choices and rationale for each aspect of the concept. Foster collaboration by allowing students to compare and contrast their Frayer Models, identifying commonalities and differences.

Analyze and Synthesize

Guide students to analyze and synthesize the information presented in the Frayer Models. Encourage them to identify patterns, relationships, or themes that emerge from the different characteristics, examples, and connections. Help them develop a deeper understanding of the concept by examining the various perspectives presented in the models.

Extend and Apply

Extend the concept mapping activity by challenging students to apply their understanding of the concept in new contexts. Encourage them to create additional Frayer Models for related concepts or real-life situations where the concept can be applied. This step helps solidify their understanding and promotes transferability of knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions about Frayer Models

When is the frayer model the most applicable teaching tool for learning a particular concept.

This model is most applicable when you want to facilitate a level of synthesis and understanding of a particular topic. Students are able to engage with concepts and build on them from the basic level of the vocabulary related to the concept or topic to the examples, characteristics and definition. They are guided to develop their analytical skills before and after engaging with a topic.

What are some techniques for implementing the use of the model in lessons?

There are a few popular techniques for implementing the use of the Frayer model in classrooms.

• Having students guess the word/main concept based on the hints provided in the model.
• Students can be given half-empty models that they have to fill in from memory of the topic.
• The class can be engaged in a group activity or carousel brainstorming where templates are distributed to the class and each group is given a particular time frame to fill out a portion of the chart. The template is passed around until it is complete, allowing students the opportunity to possibly do presentations on the completed worksheets.

What are the benefits of using the Frayer model?

The Frayer model is effective, and widely used because it is a tool that is simple in its design but useful in its applicability as it allows students the opportunity to activate past knowledge, while linking it to new concepts and simultaneously stimulates critical analysis of the information. It also facilitates retention and recall well, especially for students who are visual learners.

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What is a Graphic Organizer?

3 reasons why you should use graphic organizers , 6 graphic organizers that you can use in your class , start organizing your learning material today, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Being a teacher, you are always looking for opportunities to make learning engaging and simple for your students. And here, a graphic organizer is a tool that helps teachers visually organize learning material for students. In addition, it provides visual presentations to students for quick learning and understanding.

This post will walk you through different graphic organizers and how they can help teachers provide an interactive learning environment. But, first, let’s explore the topic. 

A graphic organizer is a robust visual learning tool that helps teachers organize their students’ ideas. Educators can use graphic organizers to present complex concepts through interactive visuals. 

Students and teachers can use graphic organizers to brainstorm ideas and make hard decisions. In short, graphic organizers are visual tools to organize and present information. 

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Graphic organizers are powerful teaching tools that help present information in an easy-to-understand format. Using different graphic organizers like charts and diagrams, teachers can create adaptive and simple learning material. Besides this, graphic organizers can help teachers in many ways, like:

1. Deeper understanding 

The best thing about graphic organizers is that they help students understand complicated things. In addition, when you pair graphic elements along with reading material, it will provide a visual perspective to your students. 

For example, when you teach students the life cycle of butterflies, they might not understand how a cocoon turns into a beautiful butterfly. However, showing a proper diagram of butterflies’ life cycle will provide a deeper understanding to your students.

Therefore, you should pair graphic tools with reading material to improve their comprehension. 

2.Helpful for all students 

It is challenging for teachers to create a learning material that can help everyone in the class. Especially if you have sensory-challenged children in your class, it is impossible to help all students with a learning resource. 

Fortunately, graphic organizers make learning easy for everyone. For example, attractive visuals can help physically disabled children understand things they can’t read. Similarly, children who are slow at learning can leverage visuals. This way, teachers don’t have to create different learning resources for each student. That will save them a lot of time. 

3. Increase engagement 

A big block of words can scare anyone. When your students see big paragraphs and no images, it will reduce their engagement. They will feel bored and uninterested in a lesson even before the beginning. 

On the contrary, they can process the information faster with colorful elements, various shapes, and diagrams. Graphic organizers will increase student engagement in learning. When students are engaged and focused on their learning material, it will automatically uplift their academic performance.

Several different graphic organizers are available for teachers in classrooms based on the available information and context. According to your data, you can use these types of graphic organizers in your class, such as:

1. Circle Map

A circle map graphic organizer is used to explain related concepts or brainstorm ideas. There is one large circle in this organizer and one small circle inside it. 

The main topic is defined in the small circle, and then the large circle is filled with related information. This organizer helps to establish connections and definitions to move organically. Teachers can use these graphic organizers to teach simple concepts to preschoolers, like colors or shapes. 

For example, you can write the color red in the small circle and mention all the red items in the outer circle, like apples, roses, etc. This will help your students identify all the red objects.

2. Spider Map

This graphic organizer comes in handy when explaining things with descriptive connections. This organizer looks like a spider web, so it’s called a spider map.

You have to draw a big circle with connecting arrows to create this map. This map helps to explain a definition that belongs to a group. For example, you can write mammal in a big circle and draw connecting arrows to mention all the animals that belong to a mammal family cows, dolphins, etc. 

3. Idea Wheel

As the name suggests, this graphic organizer helps to brainstorm ideas. It is a combination of a spider map and a circle map. In this diagram, you have to put the main idea in a small circle, and around it, you can create other circles or shapes to segment your concept. In the end, the organizer will look like a wheel.

4. Venn Diagram

Venn diagram is a popular web graphic organizer. This diagram helps explain the differences and similarities between the two concepts. In this graphic, two large circles are created, intersecting each other at a point where you will mention the main topic of the study.

5. Tree Chart

The classic tree chart is the perfect graphic organizer for categorizing and subcategorizing a topic into several sections. Using this chart, you can present extensive information in small sections for easy interpretation.

6. Sequence of Events Chain

This graphic organizer is similar to a flowchart. However, you will use graphics and visuals to establish the flow of different processes and procedures. For example, professionals use this organizer to create business presentations.

Whether creating learning material for preschoolers or high schoolers, using accurate graphic organizers will add more value to your resources. Students can better understand lessons and complex problems through visual presentation.

As you have already seen, there are multiple types of graphic organizers available. You have to select the right organizer to present your information attractively and effectively.

What does a graphic organizer do?

Graphic organizers are learning and teaching tools that help understand and interpret information faster. Various visual and text elements are used to create graphic organizers to make information accessible to everyone.

Is table a graphic organizer?

Yes, tables are also graphic organizers as they help categorize information into different blocks along rows & columns for easy understanding. Teachers can use tables to show attributes of items, compare and contrast topics, and evaluate information.

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The 5 Best Graphic Organizers for Teachers & Students

Study after study reveal that visual aids offer learners a host of benefits . They help with everything from improving understanding and recall to making organizing information easier. That’s why graphic organizers are an essential tool for teachers and students alike.

What is a graphic organizer?

Graphic organizers are helpful tools that visually represent information and can be used to organize thoughts and ideas. They’re great for brainstorming, planning, categorizing data, and more. 

But what many fail to realize is that there’s not just one kind. There are dozens of different types of graphic organizers, each designed to meet a specific need. Some of the more common ones include Venn diagrams, mind maps, and flowchart diagrams. 

That’s why it’s worth familiarizing yourself with the various types of graphic organizers. Once you understand them, you’ll be able to put a limitless number of graphic organizer templates to work for you.

That way, no matter what the situation, you’ll be ready to benefit from these powerful visual aids.

What are the benefits of graphic organizers?

One of the benefits of using graphic organizers is that they can help students make connections between different concepts. For example, a Venn diagram can be used to show the similarities and differences between two topics. Timeline diagrams can be used to see how events are related, even though separated by geography or time. And mind maps are helpful for seeing how big ideas can be broken down into smaller ones. 

By seeing the information laid out in a logical way, students will be able to understand complex concepts more easily. 

But graphic organizers don’t just aid comprehension. They’re also a powerful memory aid, allowing students to recall information more readily. The right visual can lodge an idea, sequence, or event deeply into a learner’s mind.

On top of all that, graphic organizers are incredibly helpful for brainstorming and planning. If a student is working on a project or paper, a mind map is the perfect place to start. It allows them to think through the entire thing beforehand, so they don’t waste time chasing rabbit trails.

When it comes to learning, graphic organizers are an invaluable tool. Here’s a look at five of the most popular types and how they can help teachers and students.

What are the 5 types of graphic organizers that are most often used?

When it comes to graphic organizers, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best approach depends on the nature of the material and the goals of the learner. With that in mind, here are five of the best types of graphic organizers for teachers and students alike.

1. Mind Maps

A mind map is a flexible tool that can be used for brainstorming, taking notes, or organizing ideas. It’s especially well-suited for visual learners or those who prefer a non-linear approach to learn (find out more about what is visual learning here). Mind maps allow learners to quickly capture ideas and make connections between them. 

Mind maps can also help students to see the big picture and make complex problems more manageable. For example, a student might create a mind map to organize their thoughts on a challenging essay topic. Because of their versatility, mind maps can be used by teachers and students in almost any subject.

2. Concept Maps

The concept map is similar to a mind map, but the main difference between a concept map vs mind map is that the first one is more focused on showing relationships between multiple concepts. It’s often used in fields like science and engineering, but it can also be helpful for students who are struggling to see the big picture.

Concept maps are especially useful for understanding abstract ideas or theories. For example, a concept map could help students to understand the roles of individual countries in the European Union. It could also be used for mapping out a complex theory or concept like natural selection or the law of supply and demand.

3. Flowchart Diagrams

Flowchart diagrams are a great way to visualize a process or sequence of events. They’re often used in business and computer programming. But they can also be helpful for students who are trying to understand complex concepts. For example, a flowchart diagram can help students to understand the process of photosynthesis or the steps in a historical event. This makes them an ideal choice for science and history classes.

4. Timeline Diagrams

The graphic timeline is a useful tool for visualizing historical events or tracking the progress of a project over time. It can also be helpful for students who need a way to organize information chronologically. This makes them particularly valuable in history classes. However, they can also have some other, perhaps more surprising uses.

5. Venn Diagrams

The Venn diagram is a classic tool for comparing and contrasting two or more things. It’s simple yet effective, especially for deep analysis. They can help you spot patterns and relationships that might not be visible when looking at data in isolation.

Venn diagrams can also be helpful for understanding concepts that are difficult to visualize. For example, Venn diagrams can help you map out the relationships between abstract ideas such as morality and law. Imagine a Venn diagram that examines the moral and legal dimensions of a controversial issue like abortion.

Venn diagrams can be particularly helpful when preparing for a paper, presentation, or debate. That’s why they make such useful tools within English and social studies classrooms.

How do you make a graphic organizer?

You can get started creating graphic organizers with nothing more than a pen and some paper. But you’ll need mind mapping software if you’re going to get the most out of them. The right mind mapping software will allow you to quickly create all kinds of mind maps. You’ll be able to edit them on the fly without erasing everything and starting over from scratch. And you’ll be able to add photos, videos, audio recordings, other files, and links – without any effort at all. 

Most mind mapping software also includes the ability to use concept map templates to get you started. So, creating your first mind map will be a snap.

Creating graphic organizers with Mindomo

While there are dozens of options out there, Mindomo is a great first choice for making graphic organizers. You can use it to brainstorm ideas, take notes, or organize information. It’s flexible and easy to use. And it’s perfect for visual learners or those who prefer a non-linear approach to learning.

The easiest way to get started is to figure out what kind of chart you need. Whether it’s a flowchart diagram, timeline diagram, or something in between, Mindomo has the graphic organizer templates you need. Simply choose from Mindomo’s many graphic organizer templates and get started.

Once you’ve chosen a concept map template, you can begin editing it to fit your needs. Enter your main topic or idea where it belongs on the concept map template. From there, you can add branches for sub-topics and add details to each branch. 

You can also add links to other maps or web pages, and you can embed multimedia files like videos and images. You can use shapes and arrows to help illustrate relationships between different elements. Once you’ve finished, you can even use colors to make the organizer look more appealing.

And there you have it! You’ve just created your very own graphic organizer. Now you can use it to help reinforce concepts, remember information, and plan projects. So put your new skills to good use and get organized! 

A few parting thoughts

Graphic organizers are a great way to help students learn and remember new information. Students can use graphic organizers to make connections between different concepts and organize their thoughts in a meaningful way. And teachers can use them to craft more effective lessons that stick. Mindomo offers all the tools and graphic organizer templates you need to get started. 

So, why not give it a try? 

Keep it smart, simple, and creative! The Mindomo Team

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7 types of graphic organizers for education

Reading time: about 7 min

Think about the last time you got a new phone or downloaded an app. Did you spend some time organizing your screen in a way that makes sense to you? When you think about it, your smartphone is a graphic organizer.

Students of all ages can retain what they have learned for a much longer time if the information is organized visually in a manner that makes sense to them. There are many different types of graphic organizers for students and teachers—web graphic organizers can help students and teachers organize information, ideas, and concepts in a visual way. Let's dig into a few of the more common graphic organizers that can help you, or your students, better organize and asborb information. 

Note for teachers: Many of the templates in this article also offer a black-and-white printable version that you can use for assignments. Just click the image of the template you want to use to open in Lucidchart.

Types of graphic organizers

A KWL chart  is a graphic organizer tool that lets students illustrate what they know, what they want to know, and what they have learned. This chart is very easy to use and encourages students to track their learning. These charts can be used individually, in groups, or by the entire class.

The process for using a KWL chart is simple:

• Students brainstorm and write down what they currently know about a given subject.
• Students write down what they would like to learn about the subject.
• Students record what they have learned about the subject.

Use a KWL chart before, during, and after a lesson to measure how much students progress. You will be surprised by how much students are learning.

Venn diagram

A Venn diagram shows the similarities and differences between two or more items. The diagram is made up of a series of shapes, typically circles, with edges that overlap. Each shape represents a different item. The characteristics shared by each item are represented by the overlapping intersections of each shape.

Venn diagrams are typically used in scientific and engineering presentations, in computer applications, in theoretical mathematics, and in statistics. But you can use a Venn diagram as a graphic organizer in any situation where you want to find a direct comparison among different categories or concepts.

For example, younger students may have fun using Venn diagrams to discover what they have in common with their classmates. A very simple diagram can ask students to find out who has a dog, who has a cat, and who has both.

Double bubble map

A double bubble map is an educational graphic organizer that students and teachers can use to compare and contrast things such as people, characters, places, and events. Double bubble maps help students develop logical thinking skills as they organize similar data in one place and contrast it with unique data. Plus, saying “double bubble” is kind of fun.  

Unlike a Venn diagram, the shapes in a double bubble map don’t intersect where the items share common characteristics. Instead, additional shapes are placed between the two shapes that represent the items being compared. The shapes that represent the contrasts of the items being compared are placed on the left and right of the items being compared.

In the example above (which you can open in Lucidchart and use as a template), the orange shapes in the center shapes tell us what apples and bananas have in common: They are both types of food, they are both fruits, and they are both tasty, depending on who you ask. The shapes on the outside edges describe the contrasts: Apples are red, crisp, and full of Vitamin C, while bananas are yellow, soft, and full of potassium.

Cluster/word web

The cluster/word web is a graphic organizer for teachers to help students sort out their thoughts before they start writing an essay, a research paper, or another writing project. This organizer is pretty straightforward: Students write a topic or theme in the middle of the cluster/word web, similar to a mind map. Then they write their main points in the second level of circles, followed by supporting details in the third level of circles.

Learn about additional graphic organizers for writing essays.

A storyboard uses simple artwork on static panels to convey a series of events without too much detail. The idea is to present a quick and easily understood overview of what you want to do. You might think of a storyboard as a tool used by filmmakers to visually outline the sequence of the story that their movie will follow. But a storyboard can translate educational settings as well.

For example, a history teacher can create a storyboard to outline important events from history to help their students remember and recall details that they may not remember if the information is presented in words alone.

A storyboard should have more pictures than words. Blank lines can be included below the graphic panels for any text that may be necessary. For example, in a storyboard for an event in history, you may want to write down important dates and names as they relate to the graphics.

Storyboards can also be useful for helping students memorize step-by-step processes, visualize concepts, or for helping students who speak English as a second language.

Persuasion map

A persuasion map is used to visually map arguments that you want to use in a debate or in persuasive writing. Writing to persuade can be as simple as an email asking for help on a project or as complex as a scientific paper describing a new theory.

The mapping process for this classroom graphic organizer is simple and straightforward, and it can help students stay on topic as they organize their persuasive arguments.

• Introduce the goal or objective in the top box.
• List three reasons to support why the goal or objective needs to be met.
• Summarize important points and state once again what you want your audience to do or believe.

Concept map

A concept map , or concept diagram, is another type of educational graphic organizer that students can use to diagram suggested relationships between concepts. By making a concept map , students visually think about concepts more easily than they can with simple lists or notes.

A concept map uses shapes such as boxes or circles to represent ideas and information. Shapes are connected by arrows labeled with linking phrases such as “due to,” “can be avoided by,” “contributes to,” “requires,” and so on.

Why should you be using concept maps?

• To help students organize new information
• To help students brainstorm ideas
• To help students make meaningful connections between main ideas and other information
• To improve student understanding and increase knowledge retention
• To give students an easy and flexible way to map out any concept or idea

To create a concept map, follow these simple steps:

• Identify a topic you need to study.
• Brainstorm about the facts, ideas, themes, and questions that come to mind as you think of the selected topic.
• Start drawing your shapes. We recommend that you place the shape representing your main topic at the top and link to other shapes in a downward hierarchy. The more important the idea or concept, the closer it should be to the main topic in the hierarchy.
• Connect the ideas and concepts you brainstormed to the main topic and to each other.

See more concept map templates and examples.  

How can Lucidchart help?

As you can see from the templates throughout this article, Lucidchart has a huge selection of different types of graphic organizers for education. With an Educational account, students and teachers can use these resources to organize ideas, plan assignments, evaluate learning, and more.

Want to fully invest in bringing 21st-century learning to your classroom? Try Lucid for Education and create assignments that enable critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. 

Lucidchart, a cloud-based intelligent diagramming application, is a core component of Lucid Software's Visual Collaboration Suite. This intuitive, cloud-based solution empowers teams to collaborate in real-time to build flowcharts, mockups, UML diagrams, customer journey maps, and more. Lucidchart propels teams forward to build the future faster. Lucid is proud to serve top businesses around the world, including customers such as Google, GE, and NBC Universal, and 99% of the Fortune 500. Lucid partners with industry leaders, including Google, Atlassian, and Microsoft. Since its founding, Lucid has received numerous awards for its products, business, and workplace culture. For more information, visit lucidchart.com.

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If you’re a student, there’s no way around it: You’re going to have to write essays. But there is an easier way to brainstorm, structure, and write the perfect essay. Learn how graphic organizers can help and get started with templates from Lucidchart.

A KWL chart is a simple graphic organizer that empowers students to own their learning and helps teachers curate the most engaging lessons. Learn how you can incorporate KWL charts into your classroom.

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