The Frayer model is a visual framework for cultivating and expanding a student’s vocabulary or understanding of a particular concept. Its structure consists of 4 squares and a circle at the center. The circle captures the word or concepts you want the student to learn, and the squares record their its, facts, non-examples (what the topic is not), and examples. The model is useful for students of any age, from elementary to high school. We have provided a simple template that serves as a starting point to help you create an exemplary Frayer model quickly.
This vocabulary development tool can be useful whether you are a teacher who needs it in class or a parent who wants to improve your child’s language. It helps your student expand their vocabulary beyond dictionary definitions and rote learning as they can contextualize words by giving examples and non-examples. You can use it before, during, or after reading a particular subject. While it is primarily a teaching instrument meant to promote engagement, you can use it to assess the student’s understanding of a word or concept so that you can improve future lessons.
The Structure of this Frayer Model Template and Its Practical Use
Before you explain how to use this learning tool to the learners, you must first understand its elements. Firstly, the structure of this template is based on the design by Dorothy Frayer and her team. You will find the four sections labeled as follows;
Word
To use this template, you should start at the center of the layout by supplying a vocabulary word that you want your students to focus on. Pre-select the word based on. This can be in any subject, including science, history, economics, arts, language, etc. For example, an insect, an occupation, a tool, or a structure. Note that you can use the Frayer Model to help students understand concepts too. For example, scientific theory, biological process, type of rock, etc.
Make copies of the model depending on the number of students you want to coach. You can choose to use groups such as pairs to promote more engagement, which is a significant factor in learning.
Facts
For effective word learning, it is important for the student to be able to define the word at hand. In this section, you should therefore make sure the learner(s) outlines facts and characteristics that can distinguish the word at hand or define it.
Where possible, allow the student to define the word or concept using their own words; however, the definition must be correct.
Non-examples
In this section, implore the students to give words or objects that are opposite of the target word. They can also highlight any misconceptions about the word as examples of what the item or subject is not.
Examples
Examples are great for contextualizing the word. Here, you should instruct the students to apply their knowledge of the word and its usage in everyday vocabulary. They can use quotes, short sentences, and images (for younger children) to demonstrate their understanding of the word.
Available Formats
This template is available in Docx, ODT, Dotx, and Google Docs file formats. Take advantage of these options by selecting the version that best suits your teaching needs. For example, if you are teaching remotely, the Google Docs version can be invaluable in observing real-time participation by your students. It can also be a great asset if you want to pair students at different locations. In addition, while we have made the template visually appealing using colors, feel free to use the customization abilities of each version to suit your preferences, theme, topic, or subject.
