A concept map shows the relationships among ideas. Because a concept map shows relationships among ideas, it can make the meaning of ideas and terms clear, and help you understand better what you are studying. The concept map is a diagram that usually shows how the concepts are related. Overall, concept maps are useful for breaking a big concept down into smaller parts making learning easier.

Use the following terms to create a concept map.

• Real Numbers
• Rational Numbers
• Irrational Numbers
• Square Root
• Perfect Square
• Terminating Decimals
• Repeating Decimals
• Pythagorean Theorem
• Fractions
• Factors
• Multiples
• Greatest Common Factor
• Least Common Multiple
• Divisibility Rules
• Factor Tree
• Prime Factorization
• Prime Number
• Composite Number
  

There is usually not one correct way to create a concept map. As you proceed you may want to alter the way you are constructing the map. Inspiration will allow you to make changes easily. Examine the example. This is called a network tree. Notice how some of the words are in rectangles and are connected to words inside circles with lines. The words inside the rectangles are mathematical concepts. The lines in the map show related concepts. While constructing the concept map order the terms from general to specific. Branch the related concepts from the major concepts and use examples to help reinforce the word meanings. Continue to write the more specific concepts and examine the concept map for relationships that cross branches, and add them to the concept map.

1. Open your server account. In curricular, in Projects, in the RealNumbers folder make a new folder with your name. Make sure you leave no space between your first and last name.
2. Open the Inspiration application from the launcher.
3. Start constructing your concept map using Inspiration by typing text, making new symbols, and linking the related terms. Remember to order your map from general to specific.
4. After you entered all your terms you may enhance the map by changing the size, shape, and color of all terms and symbols. Have fun!
5. Save you finished map in the folder your created as an Inspiration file.
6. The Export your map as a jpeg file. Make sure you keep the jpg extension., eg carolmap.jpg and save this file in the icon folder.
7. Now Open the Page Mill application and following the step by step instructions make a page to contain your concept map. Place your image and make all links as instructed.
8. Save this file in your folder you made in curricular, as carols.htm

In addition to creating a concept map using Inspriation you have acquired the following technology skills as described in the back of your plan book: File Management and Application Management, Use of the Germantown Academy Server, Using Inspriration and Web Page Production . When you conclude this activity please take a few monents to assess your skills using the self-assessment evaluation document at the back of your
plan book.

This activity designed and implemented by Sue Negro, for Germantown Academy Middle School students. Web page design and technical assistance furnished by Carol Siwinski, Curricular Technology Specialist.

January, 2001