Thinking Maps
Thinking Maps
A Shared Visual Language For Learning
Give students an idea to think about, and they may learn for a day.
Teach students to think critically, and they will learn for a lifetime.
Thinking Maps
Thinking Maps is a set of 8 visual patterns that correlate to specific cognitive processes. They are used across all grades and content areas to build the critical thinking, problem-solving, comprehension, and communication skills necessary for academic success in every domain.
Learn More About Thinking MapsMaximize Learning for Every Student
Thinking Maps Work The Way The Brain Works
By tapping into the way the brain actually organizes information, we can:
Improve retention, recall and understanding.
Build fluency with higher-order thinking skills.
Accelerate learning for students of all backgrounds and abilities.
Enable teachers to focus on rich content in the classroom.
Transform Teaching and Learning
Getting Started With Thinking Maps
Thinking Maps is a whole-school learning methodology that is used across all grades and content areas. It all starts with a strategic professional development plan to introduce Thinking Maps to your teachers and help them grow their Thinking Maps practice over time.
- Aligned with Learning Forward’s best practices in professional development
- Virtual or in-person training and “train-the-trainer” certification
- Ongoing coaching and support
- Online courses and resources in the Thinking Maps Learning Community (TMLC)
- Advanced training for Leadership, Writing, and English Learners


Virtual Learning
Thinking Maps Learning Community
The Thinking Maps Learning Community (TMLC) is a vital part of your Thinking Maps implementation and your online hub for Map creation, professional learning, planning and inspiration. We created TMLC to maximize student learning, improve teacher productivity and support professional learning communities.
A web-based program that allows users to create Maps, lessons and assessments while enhancing writing skills.
Monitor progress towards school and district learning goals and develop your Thinking Maps Plan of Action.
An expansive collection of 23 video-based Professional Development modules for anytime, anywhere learning.
An ever-growing collection showcasing professionally vetted maps across grade levels and subject areas.
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Continue Your Journey
Advanced Training Options
Your initial Thinking Maps Training is just the beginning of your journey! We offer advanced courses to build the capacity of your staff and maximize the impact of Thinking Maps.
Build a data-driven strategic plan to meet the needs of your teachers and students.
Write from the Beginning...and Beyond
Improve writing across the curriculum with brain-based strategies for all writing genres.
Meet the needs of English Learners (ELs) and students with language-based learning differences.