Frayer Model

Content Area Strategy - Vocabulary

 

 What:

Students use a four-square graphic organizer to help complete the word analysis process. They analyze the word first by identifying essential and non-essential characteristics and then refine their understanding by choosing examples and non-examples to represent the word or concept. Actively engages students in analyzing a word beyond the parameters of a definition.

 

Why:

The Frayer Model gives students the opportunity to discuss and think about the words in order to develop a strong understanding of the word. It helps students understand a word or concept by analyzing it from four different, yet relational, perspectives.

 

When:

• Before reading

• After reading

 

Who:

• Grades 3-5

• Grades 6-8

• Can be used in one-on-one, small group, or whole group settings.

 

How:

This strategy should be presented through explicit modeling and think-alouds by the teacher. Can be used independently or in small groups once students understand the 4 attributes being analyzed in the modeled lessons.

 

1. Draw the Frayer model graphic organizer or pass out copies-a rectangle divided into 4 equal sections with a large oval in the middle.

2. Label the four sections left-to-right and top-to-bottom: Definition, Characteristics, Examples, Non-examples.

3. Pronounce the word to be analyzed and write in in the middle section.

4. Prompt a brief general discussion of the word, and then collaboratively with students to develop a general student friendly definition.

5. Analyze the word from the three perspectives with students or have them analyze individually.

6. Students record their responses in the appropriate boxes as they work through each area of analysis. Be sure to always have students share the rationales for their responses.

7. Have students revisit and modify the initial student-friendly definition as needed.

8. Give students the opportunity to take turns using the word in a new context.

**Optional: Consider including a section on the chart for students to provide an illustration of the word.