Learning Maps

A learning map is a graphic organizer that highlights the knowledge, skills, and big ideas that students should get from a lesson, unit, or course. The map depicts the most important information to be learned and how the different pieces of learning are connected.

• Learning maps show the big picture. Teachers who have used learning maps report that seeing the entire unit laid out on one page helps them make decisions about how to differentiate learning. Learning maps also help learners. When students can see the unit displayed on one page at any point, they can see what has been learned and what remains to be learned.

• Learning maps keep students and teachers on track as they are daily reminders of what should be taught and what should be emphasized.

• Learning maps structure the beginning and ending of lessons as they provide a picture of the unit that teachers can use to begin and end lessons in a way that best supports student learning.

• Learning maps serve for repeated review. When teachers begin and end lessons with learning maps, students are able to reflect on how well they understand what is being learned in the unit.

• Learning maps make connections explicit because they are designed to show how everything being learned is connected.

• Learning maps help struggling note-takers by providing a scaffolding for note-taking. Although a learning map does not replace notes, it helps students to ensure they are recording the most important information.

• Learning maps serve as a living study guide as students can interact with the map by taking notes, utilizing it in discussions and activities, using it to monitor and check learning, and referring to it during class.