Graphic Organizers

 Graphic organizers help students make connections between ideas and information. They can be used at any grade level and with any subject.

Yes, your first graders can complete a graphic organizer! It takes a little training and instruction but once they understand the concept it requires very little process instruction and your firsties will be organizing and synthesizing their thoughts with ease.

Types of Graphic Organizers that can be used with lower elementary students:

1. Comparison/Contrast Example: Venn Diagram. Perfect for comparing and contrasting characters, subjects, animals, etc.

Create for free Here.

2.  Descriptive Example:  T-Chart. Easy to use to describe certain characteristics.

       Create for free Here.

3. Webbing Example:  Use for brainstorming ideas around a central idea. I love to use webbing graphic organizers when we create anchor charts.

Create a Thought Web Here

I love to tie in a craft with my graphic organizers. Lower elementary students want and need to use their scissors, glue and crayons. It's IMPORTANT!  It's important for fine motor skills, creating and fun! When my district went 1:1 digital there were so many mandates about students doing the majority of their work digitally. So....as a complete rule follower, I complied.  IT WAS MISERABLE. I was miserable. The students were miserable and I will NEVER forget the day one of my precious students looked at me and said, "Mrs. Wrenn, are we ever going to get to use our crayons and scissors?" That day we closed our iPads, got out the scissors and crayons and we didn't look back.  We used the iPads in moderation, but I knew my students needed a way to synthesize what they were learning.  Graphic organizers and crafts became some of their favorite activities. 

Below you will find my Frog and Toad Craft and Graphic Organizer.  Read your favorite Frog and Toad story, have students complete one of the three graphic organizers included and create the frog craft. I promise they will love it and will be so proud of their creation. If you need a Frog and Toad story. Check out the list below.

Frog and Toad Craft and Graphic Organizer

Frog and Toad Stories:

Frog and Toad Complete Collection

Frog and Toad are Friends

Frog and Toad Together

Frog and Toad All Year

Days with Frog and Toad

I also have several graphic organizers that are easy and quick to use for any text. Help your students organize their thoughts with these Graphic Organizers for Reading.

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