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.
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.
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.
male name passed on, males had more power, social expectations clear, restrictive to women, sometimes unjust, sexist
Puritan society, most of Western society before the 20th century, some Middle Eastern cultures
Matriarchies or societies with gender equality
(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 The Witch of Blackbird Pond.
Encourage students to share their Frayer Models in small groups or as a class. Guide the conversation by asking open-ended questions about each word's definition, examples, and non-examples. This promotes deeper understanding and lets students see multiple perspectives.
Divide students into small groups and assign each member a specific role, such as researcher, illustrator, recorder, or presenter. This structure helps ensure all students participate and builds teamwork skills.
Ask students to relate the vocabulary word to their own lives or current events. Personal connections make new terms more meaningful and memorable. Prompt students to share stories or examples where the word applies outside of the text.
Encourage students to enhance their Frayer Models with images, drawings, or digital media. Visuals help clarify meanings and appeal to different learning styles, making abstract concepts more accessible.
Revisit completed Frayer Models throughout the novel study. Quick review sessions or vocabulary games help reinforce learning and allow students to update their models as their understanding grows.
The Frayer Model is a graphic organizer that helps students deepen their understanding of vocabulary by defining a word, listing characteristics, and providing examples and non-examples. To use it with The Witch of Blackbird Pond, have students select a word from the novel, research its meaning, and fill out the four sections with text-based and visual information.
Some effective vocabulary words from The Witch of Blackbird Pond for a Frayer Model include: patriarchy, persecute, vanity, affront, condescension, nonplussed, decorum, and rebuked. These words are either thematic or central to the novel’s context, providing rich opportunities for discussion and analysis.
To create a visual vocabulary board, instruct students to: 1) Choose a word from the novel, 2) Find its definition, 3) List characteristics, 4) Give examples and non-examples from the story, and 5) Illustrate each section using drawings, scenes, or online images. Encourage creativity and connections to the novel’s themes.
Patriarchy shapes the social structure in The Witch of Blackbird Pond and influences the characters’ actions and conflicts. Exploring this theme helps students understand historical context, gender roles, and how power dynamics affect the story’s events and character development.
To teach complex thematic vocabulary, use strategies like the Frayer Model, connect words to students’ experiences, revisit terms throughout the book, encourage discussion about examples/non-examples, and incorporate visuals. These approaches make abstract terms more concrete and relatable for middle schoolers.