Semantic Maps - Graphic Organizers
Semantic maps, also known as graphic organizers are maps or webs. The purpose of the map is to visually display the connections between words, phrases, or concepts. Semantic maps help students identify, understand, and recall information when they read in a text. (http://readingrockets.org) There are many different kinds of semantic maps. Some examples are thinking maps, mind maps, bubble maps, and concept maps.
The semantic map strategy has been identified by researchers as an excellent tool to use for increasing vocabulary and improving reading comprehension. Graphic organizers can be used as a pre-reading strategy to activate prior knowledge and to introduce key vocabulary words. It can also be used as a post-reading activity to connect words, categories, and new concepts. Students can add to the map and/or alter it after they have finished reading. (http://learningpt.org)
The semantic map strategy has been identified by researchers as an excellent tool to use for increasing vocabulary and improving reading comprehension. Graphic organizers can be used as a pre-reading strategy to activate prior knowledge and to introduce key vocabulary words. It can also be used as a post-reading activity to connect words, categories, and new concepts. Students can add to the map and/or alter it after they have finished reading. (http://learningpt.org)
Image taken from www.learnnc.org
How can I use Semantic Maps - Graphic Organizers in the classroom?
Graphic organizers can be incorporated into the classroom in many different ways. Here are four examples of how you can use them: (Chapman, n.d)
- Pre-Reading - Graphic organizers can be used as a reading guide which will allow students to show the sequence and relationships, and prepares students for important themes and concepts that they will discover while reading.
- Pre-Writing - Graphic organizers can assist students with brainstorming and mapping the relationship between a topic and its details. This strategy can be used to help students narrow down a topic before beginning the writing process.
- Note taking - While reading, students can create columns or charts to help them compare/contrast text. They can also outline details such as important facts and figures.
- Summarizing - Students can use a cause/effect diagram which help students to follow processes, make inferences, and draw conclusions.
Examples of how Semantic maps can be used in two different content areas
Science Example:
Graphic organizers can be used in science curriculum in many ways. One example would be to use a graphic organizer like the one below, which would help students classify different types of rocks. As they complete their reading, they could organize the rocks into different categories. This kind of graphic organizer is particularly helpful for visual learners, as well as all students. It would work well for student to use as a review for tests.
Graphic organizers can be used in science curriculum in many ways. One example would be to use a graphic organizer like the one below, which would help students classify different types of rocks. As they complete their reading, they could organize the rocks into different categories. This kind of graphic organizer is particularly helpful for visual learners, as well as all students. It would work well for student to use as a review for tests.
Image source: www.pinterest.com
Language Arts/Reading Example:
Graphic organizers are an excellent tool for students to use in language arts. They can use a map to organize their ideas before beginning the writing process. By using a graphic organizer, students can identify the main idea, followed by supporting details. It works well for students to use to make sure that they have enough supporting evidence or details before writing a story or paper. The graphic organizer below is a great example of how to use they style of map for the writing process.
Graphic organizers are an excellent tool for students to use in language arts. They can use a map to organize their ideas before beginning the writing process. By using a graphic organizer, students can identify the main idea, followed by supporting details. It works well for students to use to make sure that they have enough supporting evidence or details before writing a story or paper. The graphic organizer below is a great example of how to use they style of map for the writing process.
Image source: www.old.benchmarkeducation.com
This video clip discusses the importance of using graphic organizers in the classroom. She discusses and show examples of different kinds of graphic organizers and how they can be used for various content areas. She points out that graphic organizers can be especially helpful for ELL students.
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This video is a presentation that clearly discusses what graphic organizers are, the types of graphic organizers, how to use them in your classroom, and how graphic organizers directly tie into the writing process The video walks the viewer through the steps of the writing process and how a graphic organizer will help prepare the student for completing an essay. |
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Writing standards and the use of Semantic maps/Graphic Organizers
Semantic maps/graphic organizers are an important part of the writing process. The writing standard that the use of graphic organizers correlates with most is 6.7.1.1. This standard requires students to write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence. Students need to introduce a claim, support, use words, phrases, and clauses to clarify relationships among the claim. A graphic organizer is a way for students to map out all of their ideas and form relationships, prior to beginning the writing process. The other writing standard that graphic organizers tie into is 6.7.2.2. This standard asks students to write informative texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information. Students will need to introduce the topic, develop the topic with facts, organize ideas, compare/contrast, and show the relationship between cause and effect. With so many forms of graphic organizers, a student can use any number of them to help organize their topic and develop concepts prior to writing.