Weekly Learning Cycle
Your rhythm for mastering sociology through concept mapping and in-person labs
SOCI 2013 Introduction to Sociology | Hybrid Format
Phase 1: READ & ABSORB
📅 Monday – WednesdayWhat You're Doing
- Read the chapter in Norton Illumine
- Listen to the NotebookLM Podcast (optional but helpful!)
- Review PowerPoint slides and videos
- Take notes on key concepts for your map
💡 Pro Tip
Listen to the podcast while commuting or exercising. It will literally tell you "this is a key concept — add a node to your map!"
Phase 2: BUILD YOUR CONCEPT MAP
📅 Friday – SundayWhat You're Submitting
Your concept map based on chapter reading and content consumption
- 5-8+ key concepts (nodes) from the chapter
- Labeled arrows with verbs (causes, leads to, explains)
- Addresses the chapter's focus question
🗺️ Concept Map Tips
It's NOT about art. Simple boxes and labeled arrows work great. Build your map WHILE you consume content — don't wait until after!
Tools: Pen & paper (photo it!), Lucidchart, Miro, or any drawing app
Phase 3: IN-PERSON LAB
📅 Tuesday or Wednesday (75 min)This is where the reading "clicks." We practice using concepts with real examples.
Discuss with classmates, share perspectives, build deeper understanding together.
Clarify confusing points directly with your instructor. This is your time!
Why Lab Attendance Matters
The online content gives you the WHAT. Lab gives you the SO WHAT and NOW WHAT. Students who skip lab often struggle with concept maps because they miss the higher-order thinking practice.
Phase 4: BUILD YOUR MEGA MAP
📅 Ongoing Throughout SemesterWhat You're Building
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1Connect THIS week's concepts to previous weeks
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2Build cross-chapter bridges between concepts
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3Connect to the 3 major theories (Functionalism, Conflict, Interactionism)
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4Apply to real-world examples from your life
A growing visual that connects ALL sociology concepts across the semester. This becomes your ultimate study guide for exams!
🎯 The Sociological Imagination
Everything in this course connects to C. Wright Mills' sociological imagination: seeing how personal troubles are actually public issues.
Phase 5: NEXT CYCLE BEGINS
📅 MondayThe Cycle Continues
New chapter. Same powerful process. Each week you're building mastery through consistent practice.
Quick Reference
Concept Map Rubric (7 Points)
| Criterion | What It Means | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Nodes | 5-8+ key concepts from the chapter | 2 |
| Propositions | Labeled arrows with specific verbs | 2 |
| Hierarchy | Shows main ideas vs. supporting concepts | 1 |
| Focus Question | Map addresses the chapter's central question | 1 |
| Submission | Submitted on time in acceptable format | 1 |
| TOTAL | 7 |
⚡ Lowest 2 concept maps dropped — this policy covers rough weeks or absences.