1. Building a Mind Map: Understanding Facts and Ideas in the Context of a Conceptual Framework

2. Why? What arThe Benefits {Mind Mapping} is one of the most researched mental tools for learning and the results are positive. {Mind Mapping} is a visual graphic way of organizing and learning information and concepts. Used correctly, it uses everything we know about how the brain learns. Critical Thinking Through Mind Mapping Improves Problem Solving Ability “The better you are able to manage and organize your problem within a Mind Map, the more connections you will likely find between seemingly disjointed fragments of information. As a result, this will help you to find answers that normally may not have been evident.

3. Improves Creative & Critical Thinking Ability Our ability to think Critically and Creatively is built upon the foundation of how effectively we can piece together seemingly unrelated bits of information within our minds. Mind Mapping is one of the best tools and processes you can utilize that will enhance and encourage the development of this type of thinking. Improves Flow of Ideas When we are able to understand the associations, connections and interaction between different pieces of information, this naturally brings forth a spurt of creative and unique ideas that we normally would not have been able to piece together by utilizing a linear process of thinking. This is the primary reason why Mind Mapping is one of the most effective tools for brainstorming ideas. Used for Overviewing Links & Connections Mind Mapping interlocks, links together and associates seemingly unrelated fragments of information in a way that makes them easy to remember and recall at a later time. It is therefore the most comprehensive and ideal tool that will help you to gather a global perspective and overview about the subject under study.” (QMatrix).

4. A key finding in the learning and transfer literature is that organizing information into a conceptual framework allows for greater “transfer”; that is, it allows the student to apply what was learned in new situations and to learn related information more quickly” (Bransford).

5. To make a mind map more effective the follow these 10 basic components: 1.A map will begin with a subject at its center. 2. The use of color(s) is very helpful. 3. Branch off the center with key words or images 4.Use lower case print key word, and to make an idea stand out, use UPPER CASE PRINT 5. Important: each key word should have its own branch (line). (1pt) 6. All branches must be connected. 7. The length of a branch should be the same length as the key word. 8. The use of color for different branches is very helpful to recall of the information. 9. Use a visualization, such as a picture or drawing. 10. Map is neat. All printing right side up.

6. A conceptual framework is a group of concepts that are broadly defined and systematically organized to provide a focus, a rationale, and a tool for integrating and interpretation of information. THINK of a MIND MAP as a CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK. This provides the big picture for learning, making associations, and making interconnections between new information and prior knowledge, which is the foundation of constructing meaning. THE STAGE Actor: New information Stage: Prefrontal Cortex – where decisions are made Self- awareness Career exploration Choosing a major Academic Plan Advising & Registration

7. The Nature of Business Business product Porsche meet needs or satisfies tangible intangible profit Note: What is interesting to note is that the reading selection under “The Nature of Business” heading is an introduction; however, it sets the reader up to be prepared for important information that will be explained in more depth later. Examples, product, profit, tangible and intangible needs. “Most people associate the word product with tangible goods – an automobile, computer, loaf of bread, coat, or some other tangible item. However, a product can also be a service, which results when people or machines provide or process something of value to customers. Dry cleaning photo processing, a checkup by a doctor, a performance by a movie star or basketball player – these are examples of services. A product can also be an idea. Consultants and attorneys, for example, generate ideas for solving problems ” Example of a business reading selection and building a conceptual framework

8. Dictionary: net income: the excess of revenues over outlays in a given period of time (including depreciation and other non-cash expenses) profit Net Income Synonym Outlay Non-cash Expenses Revenue Depreciation the entire amount of income before any deductions are made income For individuals, money earned through employment and investment. For corporations. Revenues minus cost of sales, operating expenses and taxes. deductions An amount that is or may be deducted Dictionary Definition of Profit