Semantic Maps

A semantic map is a pre-reading device used to activate prior-knowledge.

It is a tool for "Student self-management".  It is a tool for metacognition.

The use of this tool has been modeled in class. 

 

 

1.The teacher assigns the key word, for eample "chemistry".  This is written int the center.

2. The students look up a definition for the key word and write it out.

3. The students make four categories which are related to the key word, for example, Measurements, Tools, Uses, and Miscellaneous. 

4.The students then brainstorm vocabulary and list five words for each category.  They can use a text or other resource when they get stuck.

5. The students write a six sentence paragraph using as many words from the diagram as possible.