- Semantic Feature Analysis
What is It?
- Semantic Feature Analysis (SFA) is a therapeutic approach designed to help individuals improve their ability to name objects. It focuses on identifying and describing key features of a word, such as its category, function, and appearance. This approach encourages structured thinking and verbal expression, making it a versatile tool for language rehabilitation.
How does it work?
During SFA sessions, people with aphasia are shown a picture or prompted with a word and asked to describe it using a series of questions. They might identify what category the word belongs to, what it is used for, what it looks like, and where it is found. This process activates multiple areas of the brain to support retrieval.
How does it help?
SFA targets Broca’s aphasia by addressing naming difficulties related to word retrieval and Anomic aphasia by enhancing semantic associations. It focuses primarily on speaking and naming skills, with indirect benefits for listening and reading as semantic networks are strengthened.
How do you do it?
To implement SFA, use a picture of an object and answer specific prompts, such as “What is it used for?” or “What category does it belong to?” Once you answer these questions, try name the object out loud. Practice with several examples, gradually reducing support as you improve.
At Home
You can practice SFA at home with these simple steps:
- Gather materials:
- Pictures of everyday objects or actions
- Paper with sections for different features (or use our website widget)
- Practice routine:
- Look at a picture
- Try to name it
- If you can't, work through the features one by one
- For an object (like "chair"): It's furniture, you sit on it, it's found in homes/offices, it has legs and a back, etc.
- For an action (like "running"): People do it, for exercise or to move quickly, uses legs, moves fast with feet off ground, etc.
- After describing features, try to name the picture again
- Suggested schedule:
- Practice 2-3 times per week
- 20-30 minutes per session
- Focus on words that are important to your daily life
Signs of Progress
Look for these improvements:
- More accurate naming of practiced words
- Faster word retrieval
- Less frustration when trying to find words
- Using more complete descriptions even when the exact word can't be found
- Eventually, better word finding in everyday conversations
Using Our Website
Our website offers:
- Interactive SFA charts for both objects and actions
- Pictures you can practice with
- The ability to save your own important words
- Progress tracking to see your improvement over time
Remember, consistent practice leads to the best results. Even if you don't always find the exact word, the strategy of thinking about features can help you communicate more effectively in everyday situations.