Note-Taking Guide: Definition/Concept Maps

Definition and Concept Maps are visual tools that help students organize and connect key terms and ideas from Penda Learning activities.
They promote critical thinking, deepen understanding, and support long-term retention.
Research shows concept mapping boosts comprehension, vocabulary development, and academic performance—especially in science.
By linking vocabulary to definitions, examples, and relationships, students strengthen connections between prior knowledge and new content.
These maps also serve as effective study guides for assessments.

Look for Key Terms
- Before or during a Penda activity, identify key vocabulary words aligned with the science standard.
- Complete one Definition/Concept Map for each vocabulary word.
- Write the vocabulary words in the center of each map.
Complete the Guide While Working Through Penda Activities:
- Follow the prompts in the ovals to write in your own words.
- Add the category, its properties, and examples to support understanding.
Review and Reflect:
- Before reattempting an activity, review the notes to reinforce understanding.
- Use the notes to identify gaps in knowledge.
- Discuss your notes with a teacher for deeper insights.
Apply Notes to Improve Scores:
- Use the notes when retaking activities to enhance accuracy and understanding.
- Revise the maps as needed based on new insights.

Teachers can model the process for students on how to fill out a concept map using a completed example.
Focus on clear connections and accurate definitions rather than filling every box.
Have students discuss their notes in small groups to compare findings.
Integrate this process into classroom discussions and assessments.
Use completed guides as study tools for quizzes, tests, or projects.

Teacher Guide for Definition Maps	Sample of Competed Definition Maps

Definition Map Student Concept Map (Blank PDF)	Definition Map Student Concept Map (Blank Editable Word Doc)

Note-Taking Guide: Definition/Concept Maps Follow