A diagram is a visual representation of information used to show how conceptual objects are interrelated. Diagrams are particularly useful to study complex material. Diagrams are useful to transform text-based data and information in a visual representation. Learners’ attention is also more likely to be attracted by a diagram rather than by a long text. Finally, diagrams help learners with a visual rather than verbal memory to better retain the displayed information.

Steps and resources

1. Define the kind of diagram you need, according to the topic you want to describe.
   
2. You can draw your diagram by hand, but there are also free online diagram software available, such as Draw. Also, Microsoft software as Excel and PowerPoint are useful to create digital diagrams.
   
3. Display the diagram in class in a visible way (stick it to the board, or use a projector).
   
   

Tips

• Use different shapes and colours to depict objects, processes and relations and remember to include a legend.
  
• Ask the learners to make diagrams in class or as an assignment: they will have fun while checking and summarizing their knowledge.

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