Semantic Feature Analysis Speech Therapy for Vocabulary and Describing Skills (Similar to EET)
- By Erin Kelly, M.A., CCC-SLP
- Feb 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 19
How I Use Semantic Feature Analysis to Build Vocabulary and Describing Skills in Speech Therapy (Similar to EET)
Teaching vocabulary in speech therapy can feel challenging, especially when students can memorize words but struggle to use them for describing and meaningful communication. After years of working with students through teletherapy and school-based services, I’ve learned that lasting vocabulary growth requires more than definitions or drill practice. Students need structured opportunities to explore vocabulary deeply, make connections, and practice describing words in multiple ways.
In my sessions, I use semantic feature analysis in speech therapy to strengthen vocabulary and describing skills through a structured hierarchy similar to EET, while incorporating my own engaging materials. Semantic feature analysis is a research-supported framework that helps students build stronger word knowledge by exploring attributes, categories, functions, and associations. This approach is similar to other well-known systems, such as EET, but I use my own materials and activities designed specifically for speech therapy sessions to make learning engaging and practical.
This framework is the foundation of the vocabulary materials I create at Speech Your Heart Out.
Download a free sample of my semantic activities to see how the framework works in real sessions.
👉 Get the free sample here → Freebie!
📘 Looking for ready-to-use semantic materials? Explore my vocabulary resources here similar to EET in describing and building vocabulary → https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/speech-your-heart-out-llc
Why Surface-Level Vocabulary Instruction Falls Short
Many students can label pictures or repeat definitions, but they often struggle to:
Use vocabulary in conversation
Apply words in writing
Understand academic language
Generalize learning to the classroom
Research shows that students need repeated, meaningful exposure to words across multiple semantic features in order to retain and use them effectively.
What Is a Semantic Hierarchy?
A semantic hierarchy is a structured, research-supported approach to teaching vocabulary that builds word knowledge across multiple dimensions.
Rather than teaching words in isolation, this approach helps students understand how words relate to:
Their function
Their features
Their category
Their associations
Their relationships to other words
This leads to stronger storage and retrieval of vocabulary.
The 8 Key Areas of Semantic Instruction
In my therapy sessions and materials, I organize vocabulary instruction around eight core semantic areas that are commonly used in evidence-based language intervention.
. Labeling
Students identify and name the target word.
2. Function
Students describe what the word is used for.
3. Associations
Students connect the word to related concepts and experiences.
4. Category
Students classify the word within meaningful groups.
5. Attributes
Students describe size, shape, color, and other features.
6. Synonyms and Antonyms
Students expand word knowledge through similar and opposite meanings.
7. Compare and Contrast
Students analyze similarities and differences between related concepts.
8. Multiple Meanings
Students learn how context changes word meaning.
Together, these areas support deep, flexible vocabulary knowledge.
Why This Approach Works in Teletherapy and School Settings
Because this framework is highly structured and visual, it works well across service delivery models.
In both teletherapy and in-person sessions, students benefit from:
Consistent routines
Visual supports
Interactive practice
Immediate feedback
This allows for strong engagement and measurable progress.
How I Turn Research Into Practical Materials
While semantic hierarchies are well supported by research, many clinicians struggle to find materials that make implementation efficient.
To bridge that gap, I create resources that align directly with this evidence-based framework.
My materials are available in three formats to meet different needs.
Choosing the Right Resource for Your Caseload
✔ Standalone Resources
Target individual semantic skills such as labeling, functions, attributes, categories, and compare/contrast.
👉 View standalone resources →
✔ Quick All-in-One System
Provides streamlined practice across multiple semantic areas in one resource.
👉 View quick system → All-In-One
✔ Deep Dive Bundle
Includes all standalone resources for comprehensive intervention.
👉 View Deep Dive bundle → Deep Dive Bundle
How Strong Vocabulary Supports Academic Success
Research consistently links vocabulary knowledge to:
Reading comprehension
Written expression
Classroom participation
Academic achievement
When students understand how words work, they become more confident and independent learners.
Final Thoughts
Effective vocabulary instruction is not about memorization. It is about helping students build meaningful connections between words and concepts.
Using an evidence-based semantic hierarchy provides the structure students need to achieve lasting language growth.
If you’re looking for practical materials aligned with best practice, you can explore my vocabulary resources below.
Start by downloading my all inclusive freebie by signing up for emails.. don't worry I don't spam!
📘 View all semantic resources → https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/speech-your-heart-out-llc
🏫 Interested in teletherapy services for your school?
Learn more about my school partnerships
About the Author
Erin Kelly is a licensed speech-language pathologist and founder of Speech Your Heart Out. She provides teletherapy services and creates evidence-based language intervention resources for schools, families, and clinicians.
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