I am a tremendous fan of David Hyerle's Thinking Maps. To me, they represent the best systematic strategies available of how to use graphic organizers to aid development of students' critical thinking skills, from K-20, in all subject areas. There is an abundant amount of research to support their use. This page compiles Thinking Maps developed mostly by students in the Brevard County Public Schools in Florida. The maps make thinking visible and are really wonderful. For a great collection of videos on Thinking Maps, go to http://www.thinkingfoundation.org/video/index.html. The diagram above is a Double Bubble Map showing the similarities and differences between desert and water biomes, made by a 6th grader. There is software to support implementation of this program. I have no connection with the company. -JL