Concept Definition Map

1. Display a blank model of a Concept Definition Map.
2. Point to the questions on the map.
3. Tell students that a complete definition would answer:`

• What is it?
• What is it like?
• What are some examples?

(Insert Figure 11 here.)

4. Model how to use a concept definition map.

• Use a familiar concept (such as horse) and elicit the relevant information for the map from the students.
• Write the information in the appropriate boxes in the model.

• As you guide the students in developing a definition for the concept, emphasize that it should include:
  • The word category
  • The important properties or characteristics
  • Some specific examples

• Repeat with a different, familiar concept from the text.

5. Present another familiar concept from the text.

• Provide guided practice as the students develop the concept map.
• Provide as much support as necessary for the students to be successful.

6. Present the new concept from the text the students are learning.

• Provide guided practice as the students develop the concept map.
  • They will not write the definition at this point.
• Provide independent practice with the new concept.
  • Cover the concept map you and the students have developed.
  • Students work in pairs to recreate the concept definition map
  • They may use information from their reading passage, the glossary or dictionary, and their own background knowledge to complete their concept map.
  • Students use the information in the maps to write a complete definition of the concept.
  • The definitions should be more involved than simple dictionary statements and will usually contain several sentences.

7. Students share their definitions with classmates.

Additional strategies for concept/vocabulary development are located under Language.