Hexagonal Thinking

Hexagonal Thinking

Map connections between concepts visually

25–40 min12–32 studentsFlat table or floor space for arranging hexagons

At a Glance

Duration

25–40 min

Group Size

12–32 students

Space Setup

Flat table or floor space for arranging hexagons

Materials

  • Pre-printed hexagon cards (15-25 per group)
  • Large paper for final arrangement

Bloom's Taxonomy

AnalyzeEvaluateCreate

SEL Competencies

Self-AwarenessRelationship Skills

What is Hexagonal Thinking?

Hexagonal Thinking is a visual discussion strategy that requires students to find and justify connections between concepts by physically manipulating hexagonal tiles. The methodology works because it leverages dual coding and relational reasoning, forcing students to move beyond surface-level definitions to analyze complex intersections between ideas. By placing hexagons edge-to-edge, students create a web of interconnected concepts where every point of contact represents a specific, debatable relationship. This spatial arrangement serves as a scaffold for higher-order thinking, as students must negotiate and articulate why specific terms belong together. Unlike linear brainstorming, the hexagonal shape allows for multiple points of connection (up to six per tile), which mirrors the non-linear nature of deep conceptual understanding. Research into cognitive load and schema construction suggests that this type of active manipulation helps students integrate new information into existing mental frameworks more effectively than passive note-taking. It is particularly powerful for collaborative learning, as it transforms abstract ideas into a tangible map that groups must collectively defend and refine.

Ideal for

Making connections across topicsUnderstanding cause and effect websReviewing units holisticallyExploring thematic connections

When to Use It

Grade Bands

K-2 –3-5 ✓6-8 ★9-12 ★

Subject Fit

Math ✓ELA ★Science ★Social Studies ★SEL ✓Arts ✓

How to Run a Hexagonal Thinking

1

Select Key Concepts

Identify 15-30 essential terms, names, dates, or themes from your current unit of study.

2

Prepare the Hexagons

Write one concept on each hexagon tile and provide several blank tiles for students to add their own unique ideas.

3

Facilitate Group Discussion

Divide students into small groups and task them with arranging the tiles so that touching edges represent a meaningful link.

4

Require Verbal Justification

Circulate during the process, asking students to explain the 'why' behind specific connections to ensure they are thinking critically.

5

Document the Connections

Have students glue their final arrangement to a poster or take a photo, then label the most important intersections with written explanations.

6

Conduct a Gallery Walk

Allow groups to view other maps to see different perspectives on how the same concepts can be interconnected.

Research Evidence

Paivio, A.

1986 · Oxford University Press, Oxford Psychology Series, No. 9

The use of both verbal and visual representations (dual coding) significantly enhances memory and comprehension compared to using only one modality.

Hattie, J.

2009 · Routledge, 1st Edition

Strategies that promote 'concept mapping' and 'metacognitive strategies' have high effect sizes (0.60 to 0.69) on student achievement and deep understanding.

Chi, M. T. H., Wylie, R.

2014 · Educational Psychologist, 49(4), 219-243

Interactive and constructive activities, such as collaborative concept manipulation, lead to deeper learning outcomes than passive or active-only engagement.

Topics That Work Well With Hexagonal Thinking

Browse curriculum topics where Hexagonal Thinking is a suggested active learning strategy.

Taking Action

Planning for Change

Year 3 · Civics & Citizenship

Voices of Dissent

Dystopian Fiction as Social Warning

Year 11 · English

Literary Worlds and Cultural Values

Symbolism and Motif

Year 12 · English

Poetry and Performance

Sound Devices in Poetry

Year 3 · English

Poetry and Performance

Metaphor and Meaning

Year 5 · English

Poetry and the Human Experience

Extended Metaphor and Symbolism

Year 8 · English

Shattering the Glass Mirror

Symbolism and Allegory

Year 9 · English

World War II and the Modern World

The Road to World War II

Year 10 · HASS

The Globalising World

The Digital Revolution

Year 10 · HASS

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hexagonal Thinking in education?
Hexagonal Thinking is a retrieval and connection-making strategy where students arrange hexagonal tiles containing key terms to show relationships. It functions as a spatial graphic organizer that promotes critical thinking and collaborative debate.
How do I use Hexagonal Thinking in my classroom?
Start by providing students with a set of hexagons labeled with unit-specific vocabulary, characters, or events. Students work in small groups to arrange the tiles so that every touching side represents a logical connection they can explain.
What are the benefits of Hexagonal Thinking for students?
The primary benefit is the development of relational reasoning and oral communication skills as students justify their placements. It also makes abstract connections visible, allowing teachers to assess student understanding through the physical map they create.
How do you assess Hexagonal Thinking projects?
Assessment should focus on the 'connection points' rather than the final shape of the map. Use a rubric that evaluates the depth of the written or verbal justifications provided for why specific hexagons were placed together.
Can Hexagonal Thinking be used for digital learning?
Yes, digital versions can be implemented using platforms like Google Slides, Jamboard, or specialized hexagonal thinking templates. Digital tools allow for easy editing and sharing, though they lack the tactile engagement of physical paper tiles.

Generate a Mission with Hexagonal Thinking

Use Flip Education to create a complete Hexagonal Thinking lesson plan, aligned to your curriculum and ready to use in class.

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