When you first teach story mapping, you want to familiarize your student with the process while they read a text of choice. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For instance, they may pick a story they already know or a topic of interest. As an example, if they love Charlie Brown, they may start out with a Charlie Brown book. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the student reads the story aloud, stop them when they read something that can be filled in on the map. Ask them where they can put the information. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If they don’t know, provide as much guidance as needed, explicitly telling them\/demonstrating where the information goes on the map if necessary. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When a component has to be inferred from the text, point to the relevant information where the student can find the answer and if necessary explain what needs to be inferred (i.e. explain the assumption\/prediction derived from “reading between the lines”).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Side Note: Writing something in your own words or drawing a picture to represent the idea are both excellent ways to demonstrate understanding of reading material. So, as your student fills in sections of the story map encourage them (or assist them if needed) to write the information in their own words or draw it.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n