32 Semantic Feature Analysis Chart
Jillian Owens
Strategy Overview
- A semantic feature analysis chart is a vocabulary tool that students can use to compare the characteristics of vocabulary words.
- This could be especially useful for reading nonfiction texts.
- This strategy builds vocabulary and background knowledge by helping students compare and contrast the meanings of related words and concepts (Jenkins & Davies, n.d.).
Strategy in Action
Students will pick a topic and fill this into the heading in the left column (example: cloud types). The student will fill in words related to this topic underneath the heading. In the headings of the columns to the right, the student will list common features shared by some of the words that they listed. The student will focus on one word at a time and mark a + if the word shares the feature in the column or – if the word does not share the feature. The student will look over their chart when it is completed and discuss the relationship between the words and the features.
Related Resources:
- LDAO-Oral-Language-Toolkit_FINALFINAL.pdf (ldatschool.ca)
- Semantic Feature Analysis | Reading Rockets
- Supporting oral language in the classroom: Educator … LD@school
References
Jenkins, S., & Davies, N. (n.d.). Semantic feature analysis. Reading Rockets. https://www.readingrockets.org/classroom/classroom-strategies/semantic-feature-analysis
