A Semantic Feature Analysis is a visual tool that helps learners differentiate meanings of related concepts with a “similar” and “different” comparison. This analysis can increase vocabulary, activate background knowledge, and provide foundations for academic discussion.
You can use this Semantics Analysis Grid with your students in three simple steps:
- Identify Key Characteristics. Brainstorm a list of features or characteristics that are relevant to the chosen words or concepts. In this sample Semantics Analysis Grid, students will be analyzing the characteristics of polygons.
- Complete the Grid. Guide students in analyzing each word or concept and marking the grid to indicate whether it possesses each characteristic.
- Analyze and Discuss. Have students analyze the completed grid, looking for patterns, similarities, and differences between the words or concepts. Facilitate a class discussion about their findings.
This Semantics Analysis Grid is ready-to-go for polygon analysis with your students, including a sample answer key, but you can create a version of this chart for any topic area analysis using our customizable Canva template.
About the Author
Betsy Butler (she/her) is a Professional Learning Specialist at Teaching Channel. She holds a B.A. in English, a Master’s in Education, and has been teaching since 1992. Betsy uses her three decades of teaching experience to write and revise our courses while selecting the perfect accompanying texts. Her specialty areas include ELA, special education topics, behavior management, and mental health.
Fun Fact: Betsy’s daily conquest is solving the New York Times crossword puzzle!
