TEXT2MINDMAP+Page

** Text2MindMap ** No More Boring Outlines **Overview** Text2MindMap is a free visualization web app that allows users to turn ideas into node-based maps. Users simply write out a list, and whenever an indent is placed, Text2MindMap will separate the bundle of items into a node, with little sub-nodes below each one. It provides a user-friendly way to put together simple or complex mind maps in a very short amount of time

**Functions**: Text2mindmap is a way of creating a visually stimulating outline without a fuss. This mades any simple outline that had been limited to just words, a two demential picture showing the branching relationship between the outlines concept. This can be useful for almost any subject. I used it myself in a personal project to demonstrate the different cultures that my family members represent. It turned a confusing jumble of countries and names into a cohesive picture with lines showing the relationships.

Advantages:
 * Tool can be used without Internet if you save to computer or flash drive.
 * Students can use individually or collaboratively.
 * No sign up is required.
 * Fonts, colors, line thicknesses are changeable and can be color-coded by branch or level.

**Classroom Application:**

This tool requires a low level of technological skills for students and teachers, making it a simple way to incorporate technology into the classroom. It is very easy to use and demonstrate, and Mind Maps can be manipulated and edited at any time allowing students to experiment with organizing ideas and information. The visual display of information lends well to different types of learners.

Examples of uses:
 * organize "to-do" lists regarding projects and collaborative work;
 * essay outlines (cause and effect, classification, etc.);
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 130%; text-align: left;">family tree;
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 130%; text-align: left;">research, classifying and organizing information;
 * <span style="color: #333333; display: block; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 130%; text-align: left;">outlining the unit or chapters of a textbook to see how topics are related;
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 130%; text-align: left;">the colors function may help with color/word identification for younger students;
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 130%; text-align: left;">characters' relationships in literature;
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 130%; text-align: left;">historical connections in social studies/history courses.

<span style="color: #000000; display: block; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 130%; text-align: left;">**Connection to Standards**: <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 130%; text-align: left;">This tool easily connects to standards across grade levels that relate to technology, writing, planning and organizing, and collaboration.

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 120%; text-align: left;">**An example:** <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 120%; text-align: left;">5th Grade English Language ArtsCompetency Goal 4, Objective 4.05-- Use a variety of preliminary strategies to plan and organize the writing and speaking task considering purpose, audience, and timeline.

<span style="color: #000000; display: block; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 120%; text-align: left;">**How to use Text2MindMap**: <span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 120%;">To use Text2MindMap one must go online to http://www.text2mindmap.com. You will see a box to the left of the screen. Inside that box you outline the information you would like to see mapped out. The example given is of the seasons. <span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 120%;">'Seasons of the year" is the center, so it goes at the top. The to make the information branch out all that you do is indent. None for the center, once for the first branch, twice for the next and so on. Its a simple outline, the hard stuff is done for you by the click of a button. To the right of the screen is another box that allows for customization, fonts, colors ect. Once your outline is complete you hit the large button on the left side of the screen that reads "Convert to Mind Map." and your outline will come to life.

<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 120%;">The example on the site itself is probably the most clear example out there: <span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 120%;">[|Text2mindmap Example]

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 130%; text-align: left;">**A simple** <span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype','Book Antiqua',Palatino,serif; font-size: 120%;">video tutorial **is located here**.