Semantic Feature Analysis

The semantic feature analysis strategy is a vocabulary strategy that utilizes a grid to help students

explore the relationships between words. By completing and analyzing the grid, students are able

to see the differences and similarities of each word,thus allowing students to form connections,

make predictions and master important concepts.This strategy draws upon the prior knowledge

of students ,and in doing so it builds students vocabulary knowledge in a streamlined

way,therefore enhancing comprehension and vocabulary skills.

This strategy is for assessment as it will allow the teacher to be able to identify areas of

weaknesses in students,it will also allow the teacher to see how well students learned the

prerequisite content based on how well they use their prior knowledge.

Steps in Using a Semantic Feature Analysis

1. Select a category or topic for the semantic feature analysis.

2. Provide students with key vocabulary words and important features related to the topic.

3. Vocabulary words should be listed down the left hand column and the features of the

topic across the top row of the chart.

4. Have students place a "+" sign in the matrix when a vocabulary word aligns with a

particular feature of the topic. If the word does not align, students may put a "–" in the

grid. If students are unable to determine a relationship they may leave it blank.
Sample Grid

This grid can be used to help students make connections between feeding relationships of

organisms in food chains/food webs.

Eats food Eats plants Eats Both Eats Produce Cannot

For Energy Plants and animals their own produce
Animals food own food

Carnivore + - -

Omnivore + + +

Herbivore + + -

Consumer + + +

Producer - - -
 Concept Cube

A concept cube is a vocabulary strategy that requires students to consider a word from different

perspectives.Students are given a six-sided cube,with each side having a different activity.The

students will then complete the cube by filling in the following criteria:

● the target word

● a synonym (word or phrase)

● an antonym (word or phrase)

● a category or categories it could belong to

● the essential characteristics of the concept of the word

● an example

For example if students are given the word liquid in a physics class then the cube could be filled

in as followed

● the target word-Liquid

● a synonym (word or phrase)-Fluid

● an antonym (word or phrase)-Solid

● a category or categories it could belong to-States of Matter

● the essential characteristics of the concept of the word- A free flowing substance that

takes the shape of its container.

● an example-Water