Clustering

by Melinda Morrison

A type of graphic organizer. A lso called Webbing or Mapping.

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Students start with a word/picture/phrase circled in the center, and then they connect that word to other circled words, pictures, ideas, feelings, etc. They are able to understand the content of what they are learning, without needing to use very much English (making this a SDAIE strategy).

Used in prewriting to organize a paper or figure out thoughts.

Can use pictures or just simple words if they have trouble with whole sentences.

Can be done in small groups, large groups, or alone.

Relaxes students so that the task of writing is not so daunting.

Works well for lower levels, as they can use pictures to help them. Level 2 students are able to read basic vocabulary and label drawings, so they would benefit from a simple clustering activity such as the examples below. Also, only BICS is required. Students will not need to write anything too complex.



Clustering also works for high levels and those exiting out of the ELD program. Level 4 or 5 students can read and write near or at grade level, but it may intimidate them if they are expected to write an essay immediately after gathering information. Clustering gives a step in-between. Even if their writing level and CALP is good, they may need more time for prewriting than someone who is proficient in English.

Higher level students would be able to make more complex clusters, such as the double bubble map. Students should be able to make comparisons at Level 3.

Double Bubble Map (comparing and contrasting) -