The Witch of Blackbird Pond Visual Vocabulary

Frayer Model storyboards can be helpful for introducing new concepts or vocabulary terms to students. The Frayer Model is particularly helpful for complex thematic concepts that can be understood differently by different people and in varied contexts. The sample storyboard investigates the concept of patriarchy, which is never explicitly named in the novel but dominates the social structure of the Puritan society. Provided below is a list of words that can be used to introduce students to thematic concepts along with a list of vocabulary pulled directly from the text.

Theme-Related Terms

Consider revisiting these terms as you move deeper through the story. Students can then add characteristics, examples, and non-examples from the book and discuss whether their original understanding of the term has changed since reading the book.

• Persecute
• Frivolous
• Judgment
• Assimilate
• Mob mentality

Vocabulary from Text

• vanity
• hawser
• frippery
• beholden
• unseemly
• apparel
• scour
• auspiciously
• garb
• fulsome
• afflicted
• brand
• affront
• spiteful
• condescension
• nonplussed
• enthralled
• decorum
• poultice
• rebuked
• shrewd
• soberly
• testimony
• monotonous
• resolutely
• ketch

Frayer Model Example: PATRIARCHY

DEFINITIONS

A social system in which males hold primary power, predominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege and control of property. In the domain of the family, fathers or father-figures hold authority over women and children.

CHARACTERISTICS

male name passed on, males had more power, social expectations clear, restrictive to women, sometimes unjust, sexist

EXAMPLES

Puritan society, most of Western society before the 20th century, some Middle Eastern cultures

NON-EXAMPLES

Matriarchies or societies with gender equality

Student Instructions

Create a Frayer Model for one of the vocabulary words from The Witch of Blackbird Pond.

1. Choose a vocabulary word and type it into the center title box.
2. Find the definition in a print or online dictionary and enter it into the description box under Definition.
3. Illustrate the meaning of the word in the Definition cell using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
• Alternatively, use Photos for Class to show the meaning of the words with the search bar.
4. Think of at least three characteristics that help expand the meaning beyond the definition.
5. Provide written and visual examples of the word.
6. Provide written and visual non-examples of the word.