Book excerpt: Problems with the charts in your math kit? Want to discover the science of content-area charts? Wish you could make pre-fab social studies charts history? Then you're ready for Smarter Charts for Math, Science, and Social Studies! In the original Smarter Charts, Marjorie Martinelli and Kristi Mraz helped you turn classroom literacy charts into teaching powerhouses. Now they show how to turn up the instructional energy on content-area charts, too. "No matter what area of the curriculum, clear visuals, simple language, and constant reflection on charts are key to helping children gain independence and agency." You don't have to be a graphic designer or a subject-matter expert. In Smarter Charts for Math, Science, and Social Studies, Marjorie and Kristi share how they learned to make truly effective content-area charts with students. You'll turn complex ideas into kid-friendly visuals, help children internalize content processes, and even increase your instructional time. "The more we charted, the less repeating we did and the more teaching was possible." With dozens of examples from the content areas, including full-color photographs, the Chartchums reveal step by step how to create charts that show Routines, Genres and Concepts, Processes, Repertoires of Strategies, and Exemplars. Then their "Charts in Action" sections show how each type of chart builds engagement and improves independence as it gradually releases responsibility to learners. Don't be content with content-area charts made by someone else for generic students. Turn to Marjorie and Kristi for charts that make learning visible for the students in front of you, no matter what the subject. Check out these videos from the authors! Kristi Mraz and Marjorie Martinelli Show Us the Tools for Smarter Charts Chart tips from the ChartChums: Part 1 Drawing People Chart tips from the ChartChums: Part 2 Icons