Mindmapping tools can be useful for learners on Traineeship programmes as a way to involve them in the planning stages of tackling any writing activity they might need to practise as part of an Employability module. When approaching a writing task learners may tend to focus on accuracy in spelling and do not realise how important it is to organise and sequence their ideas. 
Mindmapping software can be an effective way to engage learners in the planning process as they can continue to update and improve their work without losing any clarity in structure which may happen if learners create paper based mind maps. A popular free mindmapping tool is X mind. Like all mindmapping software X mind allows you to move ideas around the screen and also enables you to add images and weblinks. It can be downloaded on to a PC or Mac and there is also a portable version that works from a memory stick.
The mind map below shows the progress students were making in organising their thoughts about a Level 2 Functional English task that required them to write to a local councillor to protest against the closure of a local playgroup –
Web-based mindmaps can also be created easily using the Examtime website which is described in another section of this resource.
Traineeship Staff Support Programme 