Masters, Mori, & Mori (1993) discuss the use of semantic
mapping strategy. They define semantic mapping technique as
being "used to motivate and involve students in the thinking,
reading, and writing aspects. It enhances vocabulary
development by helping students link new information with
previous experience." The instructional sequence of semantic
mapping is as follows:
1. Select a word central to the topic.
2. Display the target word.
3. Invite the student to generate as many words as possible that
relate to the target word.
4. Have the student write the generated words in categories.
5. Have the student label categories.
6. From this list, construct a map.
7. Lead the class in a discussion that focuses on identifying
meanings and uses of words, clarifying ideas, highlighting
major conclusions, identifying key elements, expanding ideas,
and summarizing information. (p. 118)
From here examples of how to use selections in the Under the Sea
unit in the development of the semantic mapping technique.