Techniques in Selecting and Organizing Information

Learning Objectives for Reading and Thinking

  • Identify different techniques used in the selection and organization of information.
  • Distinguish between and among various techniques in selecting and organizing information.
  • Apply specific techniques in the processes of reading and writing.

Brainstorming

  • Brainstorming is considered one of the more popular and effective methods for discovering a writing topic.
  • The primary aim of a brainstorming exercise is to generate as many choices for a topic as possible.
  • Example: Topic - School Activities
    • Intramurals
    • Talent show
    • Classroom decorations
    • Reading month activities
    • School program
    • Teachers’ Day celebration
    • Fieldtrip
    • Clean-up drive

Graphic Organizers

  • A graphic organizer is a visual display designed to demonstrate the relationships between facts, concepts, or ideas.
  • These tools guide the learner's thinking process as they fill in and build upon a visual map or diagram.
  • The term is often used informally to describe various visual learning strategies, including:
    • Concept mapping
    • Webbing
    • Mind mapping

Types of Graphic Organizers

  • Storyboard

    • This tool facilitates collaborative writing among students to improve understanding and memory of a story.
    • It is particularly useful for discussing story structures and exploring how an author manipulates time within a narrative.

  • KWL Chart

    • The acronym stands for "Know – Wonder – Learn."
    • The chart is organized into three specific columns:
      • K (Know): For noting points that students already know about a topic prior to reading.
      • W (Wonder/Want): For listing what students want to learn about the topic before reading.
      • L (Learned): For recording what students successfully learned from the reading.

  • Venn Diagram

    • This tool shows all possible logical relationships between a finite collection of sets.
    • It is regarded as a versatile tool applicable in environments ranging from the classroom to the corporate boardroom.

  • Mind Map

    • A versatile tool used extensively by students for note-taking, brainstorming, studying, memorization, planning, and structuring information.
    • Mind maps serve to clarify ideas across virtually any subject matter.

  • Persuasion Map

    • An effective tool for assisting students in mapping out the structure of a debate or a persuasive essay.
    • The structural flow of a Persuasion Map includes:
      • Goal: The main objective or thesis.
      • Reason 1: Supported by Fact/Example and Fact/Example.
      • Reason 2: Supported by Fact/Example and Fact/Example.
      • Reason 3: Supported by Fact/Example and Fact/Example.

  • Cluster / Word Web Chart

    • Students write the central topic in a large center circle.
    • Supporting details are written in smaller circles surrounding the central topic.

  • ISP Chart

    • Stands for "Information – Sources – Page."
    • This chart is specifically useful for students compiling reference lists for projects or theses.

  • Fishbone Diagram

    • Used to identify many possible causes for a specific effect or problem.
    • It can be used to structure a brainstorming session by immediately sorting ideas into useful categories.

Outlining Techniques

Topic Outline

  • A topic outline arranges ideas hierarchically, distinguishing between main points and sub-points.
  • It establishes the sequence of the discussion and identifies the specific subjects to be addressed using keywords or phrases rather than full sentences.
  • Example: Benefits of Reading Books
    • I.I. Mental Benefits
      • A.A. Increases Vocabulary
      • B.B. Enhances Imagination
    • II.II. Emotional Benefits
      • A.A. Relieves Stress
      • B.B. Builds Empathy
    • III.III. Academic Benefits
      • A.A. Improves Writing Skills
      • B.B. Strengthens Comprehension

Sentence Outline

  • This type of outline requires each main topic and subtopic to be written in complete sentences.
  • It expresses the full idea of each point rather than relying solely on keywords.
  • Example: The Benefits of Reading Books
    • I.I. Reading books helps develop a stronger vocabulary.
      • A.A. It exposes readers to new words in meaningful contexts.
      • B.B. It allows learners to use these words in their own writing and speaking.
    • II.II. Reading improves critical thinking skills.
      • A.A. It encourages readers to analyze characters and events.
      • B.B. It helps readers evaluate the author’s message or point of view.
    • III.III. Reading supports emotional growth.
      • A.A. It helps readers understand different perspectives and experiences.
      • B.B. It gives comfort through stories that they can relate to.