Thinking Maps is a whole-school, brain-based approach to teaching and learning designed to build foundational critical thinking, problem-solving, comprehension, and communication skills necessary for academic success. The Maps provide a shared visual “language for learning” for an entire school or district.

  • Thinking Maps are a set of eight visual patterns or icons that each represent a specific cognitive process.

  • Unlike graphic organizers, which are highly varied and inconsistent, the eight Thinking Maps are used consistently across all grades and content areas. This ensures that students develop automaticity with the major thought processes by using the Maps to engage the cognitive processes they represent.

  • As students build fluency with the Maps, they internalize these cognitive skills and learn how to become better learners, thinkers, and communicators.

Please note that materials are required for trainings.

Thinking Maps is a registered Trademark of Thinking Maps, Inc.

Thinking Maps Offerings

  • Thinking Maps: A Language for Learning

    -Introductory Sessions

    -Training of Trainers

    -Follow Up Sessions including: Academic Vocabulary, Frame of Reference, Multiple Maps and Map Combinations, Thinking Mathematically, Mathematical Discourse, and Taking Information Off the Maps

  • Write from the Beginning & Beyond

    -Setting the Stage

    -Narrative

    -Response to Text

    -Argumentative

    -Expository

  • Comprehension Strategies for Constructing Meaning

    Through this training, educators can understand major research-based comprehension strategies and learn approaches for scaffolding reading comprehension from the abstract to the concrete using Thinking Maps.

    Participants will learn how to use Thinking Maps as active literacy tools to support reading comprehension instruction.

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Skyler T., Greenfield Union School District, California

“This Thinking Maps training experience was very helpful and interactive! Lots of hands-on with practice and collaborative with pair-share opportunities throughout. Extremely knowledgeable speaker, and the resources are great to keep for the school year!"

Emily C., The Fletcher School, North Carolina

“I had the opportunity to attend a virtual three day training with Lisa and it was amazing. I was skeptical at first with it being a virtual training, but it was, by far, the best training that I have ever attended. Lisa interacted with all of the participants just as though we were in the same physical room. I left with so many ideas and was ready to share and implement everything I learned immediately in the classroom!”

Amy S., Mary Queen of Peace, Louisiana

“I wanted to take a minute to thank you for the excellent training you provided and for modeling powerful strategies. I had teachers come up to me this morning telling me they are excited to practice what they learned with their students. Yay! I appreciate all the love and encouragement you give us at MQP!”

Sarah A., Cabarrus County Schools, North Carolina

“Thank you for an incredible two days of professional development. Your insights, expertise, and engaging delivery captivated our team and provided invaluable knowledge and inspiration. The depth of understanding you brought to Thinking Maps and "the why" behind each map was truly impressive and greatly appreciated. I hope to see you again soon to show off all of the awesome things we implement at our school!”