Images for Words: Yummy for the VSL brain

Reading and Writing pose interesting requirements for the Visual Spatial Learner (VSL).

As I explore the way a VSL brain functions in regard to reading and writing by doing research on the topic, the reading and writing strategies emphasized for the VSL are the same techniques I learned on my own in school.

I can only imagine how wonderful it would have been if my teachers had provided me with strategies for a VSL in relation to reading and writing instead of the trial and error involved in discovering them on your own!

After my research on the topic I compiled a list of important facts and strategies for the VSL in today's classroom and how to best address reading and writing. Here is the list, a link with some helpful information and an example of picture note-taking:

• Writing is a left brain attribute so for the VSL it might be difficult, approaching/teaching writing as an art form (say, calligraphy) will activate the right,  creative hemisphere therefore appealing to the VSL
• Keyboarding over handwritten work allows the VSL to "export" their thoughts into words at a pace fast enough to challenge and keep their attention
• Teach students how to take notes in pictures (with words attached) to help them visualize and associate new, verbal information with images
• Grade for content over structure
• Use technology, graphic organizers and whole-concept or whole word approaches to reading and writing material before presenting parts

Awesome sites for the VSL and doodling/picture-notes:
http://graphicfacilitation.blogs.com/
http://vizthink.com/blog/2010/08/25/sunni-browns-ignite-talk-at-foo-camp-the-doodle-revolution/