Hexagonal planning
Also known as: hexagonal curriculum mapping, hexagonal curriculum planning, outcome clusters
Hexagonal planning is an ideal visual tool for displaying the associated components required by a task or project. Hexagons naturally encourage the development of connections through tessellation, where the geometry of no overlap or gaps offers an ability to cluster similar ideas together while keeping looser connections visible. In schools, classrooms and individual learning, hexagonal planning can facilitate a transdisciplinary mindset, skillset and toolset.
ICT templates
Make sure you are logged into your Microsoft (new window) or Google (new window) account before accessing these templates.
| Office 365 | Google G Suite |
|---|---|
| PowerPoint template (new window) | Slides template (new window) |
How to use with ICT
Ask collaborators to create and refine a limited vocabulary list of key themes or topics relevant to a task. For efficiency, list lengths can be restricted, for example, 5 keywords. Each participant’s keyword is placed into a hexagon using the hexagon shape tool in software applications such as Word and/or the hexagon generator tool below. Collaborators can share hexagons within an online platform so that they can tessellate the accumulated shapes and develop the most important connections. This process will support and inform a more detailed planning processes.
Single computer
Using the hexagon generator tool below, invite individual participants to input their chosen hexagon text. Project the generated tessellation as a collaboration space where group discussion and rearrangement will inform the final planning associations.
ICT tools
External resources
| Title | Link | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hexagonal curriculum mapping: it works! by Chad Ferris | Hexagonal curriculum mapping: it works! (new window) | Takes the reader through a process of hexagonal planning using outcomes from every stage syllabus to create cross-curricular, inquiry-based units of work that inspire teachers and students. |
| Hexagonal curriculum mapping by Lauren Buttigieg | Hexagonal curriculum mapping (new window) | Details the hexagonal planning procedure used for the following term’s kindergarten topic. The process reveals ways of making connections between students’ prior knowledge and the direction of the unit next term. |
| Set the culture, on the Digital Technologies Hub website | Set the culture (new window) | Scroll to the subheading ‘Mapping the curriculum’ for information on a cross-curriculum planning activity where every stage syllabus outcome is printed on a hexagon and teachers collaboratively make connections called ‘outcome clusters’. |
| SOLO Hexagons on Pam Hook’s HookED website | SOLO Hexagons (new window) | A resource blogpost exploring the use of hexagons for learning outcomes that lead to more complex understanding. |
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Personalised learning
Disability, Learning and Support
When planning to use technology in the classroom it is important to consider the diversity of your learners. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework to guide the design of learning environments that are accessible and effective for all. For UDL guidelines, information and additional materials, visit the CAST website.
Many students require technology as an adjustment to support their access to learning. Adjustments (NESA) are actions taken that enable a student with disability and additional learning needs to access syllabus outcomes and content on the same basis as their peers. Enrol in the Personalised learning with technology online course to help you make more informed decisions regarding technology.
For a range of simple, how-to videos visit the Assistive Technology page on the Disability, Learning and Support website. Resources are organised into four sections; Literacy and Learning, Vision, Hearing, Physical and Motor Skills.
High potential and gifted learning and support
When planning to use technology in the classroom it is important to consider the full range of abilities of all learners. High potential and gifted learners may require additional adjustments and deliberate talent development. These strategies include differentiation, grouping, enrichment and advanced learning pathways so students can be engaged, grow and achieve their personal best.
Assessing and identifying high potential and gifted learners will help teachers decide which students may benefit from extension and additional challenge. Effective strategies and contributors to achievement for high potential and gifted learners helps teachers to identify and target areas for growth and improvement.
For further support and advice about how to tailor learning for high potential and gifted students from all backgrounds, visit the High Potential and Gifted Education web section, High Potential and Gifted Education Policy or attend one of the professional learning courses on offer.