This activity is broken down into four different styles of life mapping. Reassure participants that artistic ability is not important. Not all maps are appropriate for every level. Facilitators should use their discretion and may choose to use one or two of the life maps that are described on the following pages.
Mapping involves writing down a key idea and thinking up new and related ideas. By focusing on key ideas written down in their own words, and then looking for connections between the ideas, participants are mapping knowledge in a way that will help them to understand and remember new information.
Participants should use lines, colours, arrows, branches, etc. to show connections between the ideas generated on their map. These connections may be important in understanding new information or in building a structured plan. By personalizing the map with their own symbols and designs, they will be constructing visual and meaningful connections between ideas, which will assist in recall and understanding.