Clusters- Strategy #8
Alyssa Stuckey
What is it?
There are two types of clusters, organized and unorganized. Unorganized looks like a sun. It is most common for brainstorming for writing. Organized clusters have several rays coming from the middle circle with broader ideas and then there are smaller rays coming out of those with more narrowed ideas.
Why should you use it?
ELL: This strategy works well for English Language Learners because it helps them visualize what they are learning and remember words and ideas that they are unfamiliar with.
How do you use it?
2. Design the cluster: Developing an unorganized cluster, they will brainstorm just words and phrases that relate to the topic. That is what gets written on the different rays. Developing an organized cluster students will identify several big ideas, draw the rays for the center circle for each "big idea" and then in separate smaller circles they will write the idea's name.
3. Complete the cluster: For the unorganized clusters , students will brainstorm more ideas based on the words and phrases they have already written down. To finish the organized cluster the students will write more details related to the big ideas.
When do you use it?
Quick Facts!
- You can make this digital! The websites are http://www.inspiration.com or Kidspiration
- Really great for English Language Learners!
Common Core Standards
- Students develop a topic with facts, details, and examples.