Mind maps prove to be extremely beneficial for HSC students, especially in subjects that involve writing essays, such as Studies of Religion II (SOR2) and English. They help students visually structure information, allowing them to grasp complex material, recognise connections between concepts, and simplify their thinking process, making them an ideal tool for studying and planning essays. In my experience, I have found both linear and visual thinkers to benefit from this simple method, forcing students to reckon with the most important aspects of their essays.
In SOR2, students often navigate intricate belief systems, ethical frameworks, and significant religious figures or movements. Mind maps enable students to break down these complex topics into more manageable sections. For instance, while studying a religion like Christianity, a student could create a mind map with branches dedicated to key components such as sacred texts, core beliefs, ethical teachings, and rituals. Under each branch, they can further subdivide into specific details—like the role of the Bible under sacred texts or the significance of the Beatitudes under ethical teachings. With SOR being particularly vague with writing structure and requiring specific reference to quotes, this organisation aids in ordering content coherently, facilitating easier recall of specific points during an exam and the construction of a comprehensive essay that covers the syllabus thoroughly.
In the context of English, mind maps are invaluable for essay planning, particularly when analysing intricate texts or comparing themes across multiple works. When preparing for the essay section of an exam, students can utilise mind maps to deconstruct key themes, characters, and literary techniques from their texts.
Mind maps allow for the condensation of a large amount of information into a structured, easily digestible format. They promote active interaction with the content, ensuring that students not only memorise details but also comprehend the relationships between them. For HSC students managing extensive syllabi, mind maps provide a practical and efficient approach to organising their thoughts and enhancing essay writing under exam conditions.
Freddie Le Vay
