Semantic Feature Analysis
A semantic feature analysis task requires students to use their reasoning skills to compare and
contrast concepts among related vocabulary terms. Identifying similarities and differences was
rated at the one of the best instructional strategies that affects student achievement in a study
done by McREL. Instead of giving isolated answers students look for patterns and
generalizations. Creating Venn diagrams and graphic organizers are similar strategies that
increase student learning and retention.
Natural
Whole
Integers
Rational
Irrational Real
Imaginary
Numbers Numbers
Numbers Numbers Numbers Numbers
8
0
-3
4.3

-2.4
-6/5
155
55
11/7
-120
8
3
6.03
8/2
81
-0.5
0/9
5
3
8
5.9
7/0
 16
7i
3+2i
Place an X in the appropriate places in the grid. Once the grid is completed, what conclusions or
generalizations can be found? Are there any patterns? What attributes are common to each set
of numbers? How are the numbers similar and how are they different?
Another idea for a semantic feature analysis would have equations on the left side. Across the
top would be, has a positive slope, has a negative slope, has a slope of zero, has an undefined
slope, has a non-zero x-intercept, has a negative y intercept and passes through the origin.
Various quadrilaterals could be compared with the properties of their sides such as parallel sides,
opposite sides parallel, four right angles, etc.
Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School November 2002, p 146-148
An Algebra Example
Equation
Linear
Quadratic
Cubic
Polynomial
Degree?
Number of
Distinct
zeros?
Shape of
Graph?
Number of y
intercepts
Number of xintercepts?