DOPE · Designing Optimal Pedagogical Experiences

TREE MAP

90 Second Documentary — Research Organizer

DOPE
Designing Optimal
Pedagogical Experiences

What is a Tree Map? A Tree Map breaks a topic into categories — like a tree trunk dividing into branches. It helps you see the big picture and organize your thinking before you write. Start with your main topic at the root. Then define your categories (branches) and fill in the details (leaves). Every branch should connect back to your main argument.

Tree Map Classification · Categorization · Organized Thinking
Root — Main Topic
Branch 01
Key Person / Group 1
Key Person / Group 2
Why These People Matter to My Argument
Branch 02
Key Event 1 (What happened? When?)
Key Event 2 (What happened? When?)
Why These Events Matter to My Argument
Branch 03
Short-Term Impact (what changed right away?)
Long-Term Impact (what still matters today?)
Why This Impact Matters to My Argument
Branch 04
Root Cause (why did this happen?)
Contributing Factor
Why Understanding Causes Strengthens My Film
Branch 05
Strongest Fact (from your research)
Best Quote (from an expert or witness)
What This Evidence Proves
Branch 06
Detail 1
Detail 2
Why This Category Belongs in My Film
Director's Analysis — What Does the Full Tree Tell You?
90 SECOND DOCUMENTARY · Tree Map DOPE · Designing Optimal Pedagogical Experiences