Semantic Mapping

Teacher writes a word centrally; class brainstorms and organises related words into categories.

Procedure

1. Write a target word or topic in the centre of the board.
2. Students brainstorm associated words.
3. Organise words into categories radiating outward (e.g., for "travel": transport, accommodation, activities, feelings).
4. Discuss connections and relationships between categories.
5. Students copy and add to the map as they encounter new words.

Tips

• The categorisation discussion ("Does 'hostel' go under accommodation or budget travel?") reveals and builds word knowledge better than listing.