How to Make a Semantic Map and Why

Semantic maps are extremely useful tools for fostering creativity, metacognitive skills and expanding our understanding of any topic. Foreign language teachers make regular use of semantic maps to help students expand their vocabulary across semantic domains. As part of the TO training in Oaxaca, Mexico this month, we were asked to do a couple of semantic maps. I realized that not everybody understands how to do an effective semantic map. So, I thought I would share a few thoughts on how to create a semantic map and how you might use it in teaching or for personal study. Then, I will attach a video and two images of examples of semantic maps which I have created, one on Bible Translation, and the other on the use of the word νόμος. 

Suggestions for making a semantic map

1. Start with one central word or concept. You will build a network of related words or concepts around this one. The map is very flexible. For example, your semantic map can deal with symbols at the phoneme, grapheme, word, or conceptual level, among a myriad other possible uses. You can use words, pictures, symbols to augment the relationships. The important thing is to begin with one. Everything else will be a building exercise form the one word/concept outward from general to specific.
2. Around this central concept, draw lines out to two or more related concepts or words. These should be closely related to the central idea, but general enough so that you can build upon this level with more specific concepts.
3. Continue this same process outward as far as is necessary, building associations upon associations. This is a potentially infinite process, but since no one has either time nor space for such a endeavor, you should build out as far as necessary until you have a map which is sufficient to give a full understanding of the central topic.

The examples: Bible Translation and νόμος

The examples I am giving are in Spanish. However, I think they will still illustrate the point for people who don't speak Spanish, and especially for those who have a working knowledge of the language. The semantic map of νόμος should be comprehensible to anyone who understands Greek and Hebrew. I hope these resources are helpful, especially for those working with students who speak Spanish.

Important Note

The map on Bible Translation isn't truly a "semantic" map, but a conceptual map using the same principles as described above. The conceptual map not only involved semantic elements, but cultural and categorical elements too. The νόμος map is more properly a semantic map.

Extracted text from https://youtu.be/p1_oBy-Zobg:

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0:00 / 9:54 Mapa Semntico "Traduccin"

Nicols Lamme Subscribe

5 views 1 0 Published on Jun 24, 2018 Un ejemplo de un mapa semntico usando el trmino "traduccin". El nfasis en un mapa conceptual sobre la traduccin de la Biblia. SHOW MORE Autoplay
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