Which process can a teacher implement before a reading activity to activate students' prior knowledge?

Semantic mapping is an effective strategy for activating students' prior knowledge before a reading activity. This process involves visually organizing information and concepts related to a specific topic or theme. By creating a semantic map, students can connect their existing knowledge to the new content they will encounter in the reading. This not only helps them recall relevant information but also allows them to see relationships among ideas, which can enhance comprehension and retention of the material.

Using semantic mapping encourages discussion and reflection on what students already know, thereby setting the stage for more meaningful engagement with the text. This strategy is particularly useful in guiding students to make predictions and connections as they read, ultimately supporting their overall learning experience.