Strategy #3
Frayer Model Level of Expertise 4
What is the instructional strategy?
The Frayer Model is a “word categorization activity” that asks students to define the word, to list some characteristics of the word, and to provide some examples (as well as non-examples) of the word (Billmeyer & Barton, 1998, p. 74). The Frayer Model can be formatted as a four-square chart: one large square made up of four smaller squares. This format allows students to more easily view and compare the four aspects of the word or concept.
Why does this strategy work?
This strategy works because it allows students to look at the word or concept “in a relational manner” (Billmeyer & Barton, 1998, p. 74). Students are able to analyze examples of the word (what the word is) as well as the non-examples (what the word is not) to gain a more complete picture of the word’s meaning. Also, the definition and characteristics of the term are clearly laid out and visible in the Frayer Model, making it easier for students to locate and reexamine these sections. This model is particularly helpful for my students, as I can utilize this strategy in pairs or small-groups in which each student can complete one or two sections of the Frayer Model. These students can then share their findings with the rest of the group. In this way, all of my students can successfully complete the Frayer Model and can have a clear reference to use when they need help remembering what a term means.
How does it work?
1) I will assign a word or concept. In this case, the word will be persuasion. This word can be found while reading pp. 137-143 in The Writer’s Craft (Blau, Elbow, Killgallon, & Caplan, 1998).
2) I will explain the components of the Frayer Model. Students will write the definition of the word (in this case, the definition of the word "persuasion") in the top left box. Students will then write the characteristics of this word in the top right box. For example, some characteristics of persuasion might be "argument," "multiple viewpoints," "supporting details," "word choice," "justification/reasoning." These are all words that help to explain the components of persuasion. In the bottom left box, students will list some examples of persuasive writing, such as essays, letters, advertisements, public service announcements. In the bottom right box, students will then list non-examples, or things that are not persuasion. These non-examples of persuasion could be other genres of writing, such as description, information, and narration. Another non-example of persuasion could be agreement, as the entire concept of persuasion requires that there are multiple viewpoints and that the writer is attempting to convince others to share this viewpoint.
3) I will then complete the model with an example word so that students gain a better understanding of how to complete this model.
4) Students will work in pairs to complete the model using the assigned word (persuasion).
5) Students then share their work with the rest of the class, adding to each others’ ideas to their own models.
Sources Referenced: Billmeyer & Barton, 1998; Blau, Elbow, Killgallon, & Caplan, 1998
What it looks like:
