How to Create a Semantic Map

Semantic mapping is a technique used to explain concepts behind words, because for any word, there are at least three associations including class, property and example. In semantic mapping, the association of class shows the order the concept falls into; in other words, is it higher or lower than another concept. The property association shows the defining characteristics of the concept. The association of example shows things that are similar to the concept.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Choose a concept. Before you can create a semantic map, you have to have a concept. For example, the concept of state in the United States.

2. Illustrate the association of class. Remember the association of class classifies the concept. Continuing the example of state, the association of class would be "division of a country."

3. Show the association of property. The association of property shows defining details of the concept. In this case, a state answers to the higher power of the government, holds powers that are not given to the federal government, has a set of courts and judicial branch, has statutes and a legislative branch and is led by an executive branch with a governor.

4. List examples. The third part in semantic mapping is showing the association of example. Continuing with the concept of state, the associations of examples would be Alabama, Alaska, Georgia, Florida, New York, Washington and any of the other 50 states.

References

• Pearson, P. D. & Johnson, D. D. (1978). Teaching Reading Comprehension. New York: Holt, Rinehart, & Winston.

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