Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Foundations of Reading Practice Exam

What does a semantic map primarily represent?

1. Relationships that compose a concept

2. A sequence of events in a story

3. A timeline of historical events

4. The emotional tone of a text

The correct answer is: Relationships that compose a concept

A semantic map is a visual tool that organizes and represents knowledge about a particular concept. It primarily highlights the relationships that compose that concept, showing how various terms or ideas are connected to a central theme or category. This mapping can help learners better understand the nuances and interconnections surrounding a specific idea, facilitating comprehension and retention. For instance, when dealing with the concept of "environment," a semantic map might include related terms such as "pollution," "conservation," and "ecosystems," along with lines or arrows indicating how these ideas relate to one another and to the central concept. This provides a clear visual representation of the relationships involved, which enhances understanding and encourages deeper learning. In contrast, the other options do not focus primarily on concept relationships. A sequence of events in a story is more aligned with narrative structure, while a timeline represents chronological order and historical sequencing. The emotional tone of a text pertains to the mood or atmosphere, which is another dimension of understanding but not directly related to semantic mapping's purpose of depicting concepts and their interrelations.