In this activity, students demonstrate their understanding of vocabulary words using a Frayer Model. After choosing a word, students provide a definition, characteristics, examples (synonyms), and non-examples (antonyms) of the word. Students may be provided the vocabulary words, or they can use words that they have discovered through their reading of the text.
This example uses the word somber:
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Student Instructions
Create a Frayer Model for one of the vocabulary words from "Paul Revere's Ride".
Boost vocabulary engagement by dividing students into teams and having them race to complete Frayer Models for assigned words. This adds energy and excitement to word study, while encouraging collaboration and quick thinking.
Print or write vocabulary words from "Paul Revere's Ride" on index cards. This allows for a smooth relay game setup and ensures all students have access to grade-appropriate terms. Having cards ready saves time and keeps the activity focused.
Demonstrate how teams will work together to complete each section of the Frayer Model (definition, characteristics, examples, non-examples) in sequence. Walk through a sample round so students clearly understand expectations and the relay format.
Circulate around the room as students participate, offering support, clarifying instructions, and celebrating creative responses. This helps maintain a positive, inclusive atmosphere and ensures everyone is involved.
Bring students together to share favorite words, discuss new discoveries, and highlight how the relay helped them understand tricky vocabulary. This reinforces learning and builds classroom community.
A Frayer Model is a graphic organizer that helps students understand vocabulary words by exploring their definition, characteristics, examples (synonyms), and non-examples (antonyms). To use it, students pick a word, fill in each section, and illustrate meaning with words or images.
To teach vocabulary from "Paul Revere's Ride", have students select key words from the poem and complete a Frayer Model for each. Encourage them to find definitions, identify characteristics, and provide examples and non-examples using both text and images.
Example vocabulary words include somber (gloomy or dismal), spectral (ghostly), and belfry (bell tower). Each word can be explored by defining, describing, and illustrating its meaning.
The best way is to let students combine drawings, scenes, and photos with written definitions. Using tools like Photos for Class makes abstract words more concrete and memorable for K–12 learners.
A Frayer Model engages students in deep vocabulary learning by prompting them to think about definitions, context, and contrasts. This approach supports comprehension and retention, especially for challenging words in poems like "Paul Revere's Ride."