This activity helps prepare students when starting a new topic or before a reading or listening task. Brainstorming words and information they know about the topic allows them to locate content and vocabulary knowledge. Students can also guess what they think they will come up in the topic or task, getting them engaged. Brainstorming existing content and vocabulary knowledge is an important stage before beginning a new topic or task, especially for SEN students who benefit from having time to ‘warm up’.   Brainstorming and mind-mapping activities can be overwhelming for some learners without a goal, so this worksheet contains 9 boxes for students to fill in, giving them a clear target. More able students can add more. Attractive design to engage students White and SEN-friendly background options SEN-friendly font, text colour, pt size and character spacing Can be used as a homework task to prepare for a new topic or as a warm-up activity for a ‘strong start’ before a reading or listening task Can be used individually or collaboratively with a partner or small group.