Brainstorming Activity | Clustering Guide for Writing Students Grades 7-12 ELA

Have lots of ideas but don't know how they are connected? Do you need a fun, engaging way to map ideas on a page? Use clustering (and flow charts). It matches freewriting with visual cues — using memories, free associations, and ideas to make new connections. Use the following writing skills educational digital download with middle and high school English Language Arts students.

What's Included:

• Teacher's Note for Using this Resource
• "Clustering" Diagram (with Activities)
  • Use an assigned topic or create your own.
• "Flow Chart" (with activities)
  • for sequencing events and brainstorming cause-and-effect relationships.
• From "Cluster to Paragraph" Worksheet
  • for bridging the brainstorming process to the writing and drafting process.
• Includes a 4-point rubric, student samples, student reflection prompt, and a standards alignment chart
• Persistent Link to a Student-Facing Digital Version

✌I recommend using these resources in a Middle or High school English Language Arts writer's workshop.