How to Create a Cohesive Devices Mind Map Using Apple Freeform

Pupils explore cohesive devices through animation, shared reading, and a collaborative Freeform mind map to improve their understanding of connected ideas in writing.

1. Lesson Overview

School Level: Malaysian Secondary School

Subject: English

Year / Form: Form 1

Topic / Unit: Writing Skills – Cohesive Devices in Email Writing

Curriculum Alignment:

Content Standard 4.1: Communicate intelligibly through print and digital media on familiar topics.

Learning Standard 4.1.5: Connect sentences into two coherent paragraphs or more using basic coordinating conjunctions and reference pronouns.

Supporting Learning Standards:

• 3.1.1 – Understand the main points in simple longer texts.
• 3.1.2 – Understand specific details and information in simple longer texts.

Duration: 60 minutes

Apple Technology: iPad

Apps Used: Freeform, Keynote, Camera and Photos

2. Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils will be able to:

1. Read and understand a short text based on an animation.
2. Identify at least four cohesive devices used in the text.
3. Classify cohesive devices according to their functions using a digital mind map in Freeform.
4. Explain how cohesive devices help connect ideas and improve the flow of writing.

3. Step-by-Step Creation Guide

Step 1: Plan Your Learning Activity

Plan the mind map layout before creating it.

• Central topic: Cohesive Devices
• Left section: Definition
• Bottom section: Sequencing
• Right section: Examples

Use a balanced layout with enough space for each section.

Step 2: Prepare Your Learning Materials

Prepare the text and examples to be included in the mind map.

• Definition of cohesive devices
• Meaning of sequencing words
• Examples: Firstly, Next, After that, Then, Finally

Keep the information short and simple.

Step 3: Create Using Apple Technology

1. Open Freeform and create a new board.
2. Use the Shapes tool to create a cloud for the central topic.
3. Add text boxes for the definition, sequencing, and examples.
4. Use different colours to distinguish each section.
5. Arrange the elements on the canvas.

Step 4: Add Interactive or Creative Elements

1. Use the Drawing tool to add handwritten doodles, circles, and highlights.
2. Use Connectors to link the central topic to each section.
3. Add Sticky Notes for examples.
4. Insert images or illustrations using the Media tool.
5. Adjust colours and shapes to create a doodle-style design.

Step 5: Test and Refine

1. Zoom out to view the entire mind map.
2. Check the text size, spelling, and layout.
3. Adjust the shapes, colours, and connectors.
4. Remove unnecessary decorations.

Ensure the mind map is clear, balanced, and visually appealing.

Step 6: Export and Share

1. Tap the Share button in Freeform.
2. Export the board as a PDF.
3. Save it to the Files application.
4. Share the completed mind map with educators or pupils.

The original Freeform board can also be shared for further editing.