Heat maps provide a visual summary using success criteria and colours. They are a way for students (and teachers) to quickly analyse data and update it to reflect shifts in learning.
Some advantages of using heat maps include that they
communicate criteria for success
can show students all of the success criteria up front (and for some students this is quite significant for their motivation)
are colourfully clear where individuals are and where students have made progress
can be used multiple times at various time points
can be used as a source of evidence by teachers to make learning design decisions
can be used by students to set goals and focus their efforts
How might you adapt the heat map examples below?
Idea 1: Whole Unit Heat Maps
Figure 1 and Figure 2 both show success criteria for a unit of work. Figure 1 was carried out two lessons into a Year 9 science unit. Figure 2 was carried out at the end of the first week of the unit in a Year 6 Maths lesson. You can see the dates and progress made in each. As a result of completing the heat map each time students set personal goals and in some instances selected tasks and small group sessions based on their next steps.
Figure 1
Figure 2
Idea 2: Key Vocabulary Heat Map
Figure 3 both shows key vocabulary or metalanguage for a year 4 English class. In addition to the colour coding down the side, students can also add ‘proof’ of their understanding in the ‘What it is’ and ‘Examples’ columns.
Figure 3
Another idea!
Figure 4
Figure 4 shows the success criteria for a lesson. At the start of the lesson students add their initials to the corresponding colour. As their exit slip, students move their initials to show if they have made progress.
How might you use heat maps with your learners?
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