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Load 'Em Up: Concept-Mapping Software Picks The Education World Tech Team shares its picks of the best software programs for classroom use. In this article, our experts reveal their choices for concept-mapping software. Don't miss the rest of this multi-part Ed World series: Load 'Em Up: The Best Software in the Education World! Concept-mapping software provides -- and allows users to create -- a variety of graphic organizers. In this category, only two programs, Inspiration and Kidspiration, were mentioned! Because both are produced by the same manufacturer, those two programs share the "Gold Star" award in this category!

	Installability	Usability	Performance	Usefulness	Support
Inspiration
Kidspiration

The Gold Star rating was determined by considering each program's total score along with the number of recommendations submitted for the program and the tenor of reviewers' comments about it.

* based on results from a single evaluator

Add Your Vote!
The reviews and recommendations in this article represent the opinions of only our Tech Team experts. If you would like to add your rating to theirs, or if you want to rate and review another productivity program's suitability for classroom use, e-mail me at lstarr@educationworld.com.

WHAT THEY SAID

"Much research is available on the benefits of graphic organizers," Wonnacott added. "These two pieces of software enable students to plan and execute writing as well as to demonstrate learning. Plus, the manufacturer's Web site offers a wealth of information."

"Kidspiration is a terrific tool for helping young students organize their thoughts prior to writing projects," agreed Mary Kreul. "Options include story webbing, outlining, and writing using graphics and text. Students can include clip art, photos, or original drawings; use the 'SuperGrouper' feature to arrange and rearrange their thoughts; hear their writing read back to them; or record themselves as they read. The program includes many activities to help teachers learn how to use Kidspiration for science, social studies, math, and language arts projects."

SOFTWARE SPECIFICS

Name: Kidspirations
Manufacturer: Inspiration Software
Available Platforms: Windows, Macintosh
Approximate Price: $69
Grade Level: K-3

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