Using the Frayer Model is a great way for students to examine a specific vocabulary word. To start, students choose a word and put that word in the center title box.
In the upper left box, students include the definition and part of speech in the description box (I suggest having students use a dictionary, online or in print, to complete this part). Using Photos For Class, our website for safe, auto-cited Creative Commons images, students can find corresponding images to use as examples.
There are a number of words in Hatchet that your students may be unfamiliar with. Below is a list of suggested vocabulary words that students will come across in their reading.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a Frayer Model for one of the vocabulary words from Hatchet.
Boost engagement by creating a dedicated word wall to display vocabulary from Hatchet. This visual reference helps students see and use new words daily, reinforcing their understanding during reading activities.
Have each student select a vocabulary word from the novel and design a card featuring its definition, a sentence from the book, an original sentence, and an illustration. Peer contributions make the wall interactive and meaningful.
Introduce quick games like Vocabulary Bingo or Word Charades using words from the wall. Active review helps students remember terms and keeps learning fun.
Challenge students to incorporate Hatchet vocabulary into journal entries, creative writing, or discussion responses. Authentic use supports mastery and confidence with new terms.
Let students nominate challenging words they encounter while reading. Adding these to the wall empowers learners and ensures the vocabulary remains relevant and comprehensive.
The Frayer Model is a graphic organizer that helps students deeply understand vocabulary words. To use it with Hatchet, have students select a word, write its definition and part of speech, find the word in the text, provide real-life examples, and non-examples. This method encourages critical thinking and contextual understanding.
Start by choosing a vocabulary word from Hatchet. Place it in the center of the Frayer Model. Fill in each section: definition (with part of speech), sentence from the book, real-life example, and non-example. Add visuals using scenes, characters, or Photos for Class to illustrate meaning.
Some challenging vocabulary words in Hatchet include: antiseptic, asset, crude, exasperation, flailing, frantic, gorge, grimacing, hefted, massively, pulverized, stable, transmitter, turbulence, and unduly. These words are ideal for vocabulary activities like the Frayer Model.
The Frayer Model is effective because it requires students to engage with words in multiple ways: definition, context, examples, and non-examples. This deepens understanding and retention, especially with complex words found in novels such as Hatchet.
Steps: 1) Pick a vocabulary word from Hatchet. 2) Write the definition and part of speech. 3) Find and quote the word's sentence from the text. 4) Give a real-life example. 5) Provide a non-example. 6) Add visuals using drawings or Photos for Class.