3 Fair to Poor :
Frequent errors of spelling, punctuation, capitalization, paragraphing, poor
handwriting but meaning not obscured
2 Very poor:
No mastery of conventions – dominated by errors of spelling, punctuation, capitalization,
paragraphing – handwriting illegible – not enough to evaluate
3. Mind-Mapping
a. The Nature of Mind Mapping
According to Buzan 1993:59 mind map is a powerful graphic technique which provides a universal key to unlocking the potential of the brain. Mind map
can be used to enrich human performance on the learning and thinking. When using Mind Map, the learning and thinking process on the human brain will run
better and faster. The users of mind map can add some creativity to make the use of this technique more effective and also interesting by adding color, pictures,
codes and dimension. Besides, it will help the process of the data storage of the brain by ordering the data and also multiplies the capacity of memory.
Buzan 1993 proposes four essential characteristics of Mind Map: 1
The subject of attention is crystallized in a central image. 2
The main themes of the subject radiate from the central image as branches. 3
Branches comprise a key image or key word printed on an association line. Topics of lesser importance are also represented as branches attached to higher
level branches. 4
The branches form a connected nodal structure.
b. The Advantages and Disadvantages of Mind Mapping
Buzan 1993 describes the advantages of mind mapping over linear note making:
1 Time saved by noting only relevant words.
2 Time saved by reading only relevant words.
3 Time saved reviewing the Mind Map note.
4 Time saved by not having to search for key words among unnecessary verbiage.
5 Concentrated on real issues enhanced.
6 Essential key words made more easily seen.
7 Improving creativity and recall by drawing essential key words in time and
space. 8
Clear and appropriate associations made between the key words. 9
The brain finds it easier to accept and remember visually stimulating multi- coloured, multi-dimentional mind maps, rather than monotous boring linear
notes. 10
While mind mapping, one is constantly on the edge of new discoveries and new realizations. This encourages a continuous and potential endless flow
though. 11
The mind map works in harmony with the brains natural desire for completion or wholeness.
12 By constantly utilizing all its cortical skills, the brain becomes increasingly
alert and receptive.
Buzan 1993 also lists some benefits of mind maps for presentations and writing tasks:
1 They eliminate the stress and unhappiness caused by disorganization, fear of
failure and writers’ block 2
They free your associative grappling hooks to take in new information and ideas, thus enhancing creativity and originality.
3 They enormously reduce the time needed for preparation, structuring and
completion of presentation or writing task. 4
They put you in continuous control of the analytical and creative process. 5
They result in a more focused, organized and integrated presentation, essay, project or report.
Hofland 2007 states there are some disadvantages of mind mapping. Firstly, mind mapping is not commonly used in schools. Many students will find
it unfamiliar. They may find it little bit awkward when they try to make their first mind maps. Next, mind mapping can also be quite time-consuming. There are
some rules that the students have to follow in drawing mind maps. It can cause students to spend much time to make it. However, this problem usually occurs
only in the beginning. The more they use the technique, the easier it becomes. Students will be used to this technique if they practice to use it regularly.
The other advantage is that mind mapping requires students to use images, symbols, and colors. This could make it difficult to get some students to use mind
mapping technique Hofland, 2007. Students may feel uncomfortable as they need to use colored pencils or crayons. In addition, not all students are good at
drawing and coloring. Some students may find it burdensome when making mind maps.
c. The Steps of Making Mind Map
