Common Sense Media Review
By Polly Conway
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Unique tool lets kids organize ideas in a nonlinear way.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
What's It About?
SPICYNODES can be used to create mind maps, take notes, write a story, or capture any information that lends itself to a non-linear presentation. Users begin by adding content into separate nodes using a database-like interface. Content can include plain text, images, video, or audio, which you can upload or snag from the Internet. Things look pretty technical at this point, but you can always click \"Preview\" to view how your info will look in the actual nodemap. Once a map has been developed, you can fly around it, zooming in on nodes and exploring info.
Is It Any Good?
It's a little tricky to figure out at first, but once you create a simple nodemap, the perks of Spicynodes are clear. The radial layout can clarify ideas, and its zoom features makes sure that the ideas further from the center aren't teeny tiny. There are also a ton of pre-made nodes created by teachers and other users that run from totally helpful to just plain cool, from the experimental poem "As Dawn Rises" to an outline of calendar systems. The "spicy" food theme is kind of a stretch, but it does add warmth to what could be a cut-and-dry mapping tool.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Create an ultra-modern family tree using Spicynodes, starting with your own family as the center.
Use Spicynodes to create a non-traditional address book or as unique way to track birthdays.
Do a fun exercise in non-linear thinking: for example, have kids inventory all the things in their rooms by type or color.
Website Details
- Subjects : Language & Reading : forming arguments , reading , using supporting evidence , Math : grouping , Social Studies : events , history , timelines , Hobbies : collecting
- Skills : Thinking & Reasoning : collecting data , part-whole relationships , strategy , Creativity : brainstorming , developing novel solutions , innovation , Self-Direction : working efficiently , Communication : conveying messages effectively , multiple forms of expression , Tech Skills : digital creation , using and applying technology
- Genre : Creating
- Pricing structure : Free, Paid
- Last updated : November 11, 2020
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