There are so many techniques that can
improve students’ reading comprehension. One of them is graphic organizer. So,
what id graphic organizer? Let’s read it more.....
A. DEFINITION
There are
many definitions about
graphic organizers. Among
them are from Bromley et al,
Sousa, Zwiers and Synder.
In Syaifudin’s thesis
according to Bromley, et al.
(1995:7) define graphic
organizer as a
visual representation of knowledge.
It is a
way of structuring
information, of arranging
important information aspects of a concept or topic into a pattern using label.
Besides, Sousa (200 5:192)
states that graphic
organizers as valuable tool for
organizing and representing knowledge and for illustrating relationship between
concepts. In addition,
Herley in Zwiers
(2004:17) states that graphic
organizers are drawings
that use geometric
shap es or tables to show
connections between pieces of information.
Furthermore, comes from
Synder ( www.tomsnyder.com) states that:
The NRP review of
research found graphic organizers to be helpful tools in improving reading comprehension.
Essentially, a graphic organizer is a graph, such as an idea web, Venn diagram,
or box map that is used to organize ideas
and relationships. Deconstructing the
text using such a
semantic mapping system
helps students identify
the most important information in
the text and
remember its content.
To be successful, however, the type of organizer
must be carefully considered, and used
in the context of a specific instructional strategy.
B. BENEFIT
Graphic organizer enable
teachers to show and explain relationships between content and sub-content and
how they in turn relate to other content areas. On the other hand, through the
use of the organizers, students can make more abstract comparisons,
evaluations, and conclusions. In short, graphic organizers allow students an
active role in their learning. For easy understanding, specific benefits to
students and teachers are presented in the following organizer.
