Activity Overview
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 league:
- Definition: A unit of distance, estimated at about three miles
- Characteristics: Karana spotted the ship several leagues away
- Examples: Distance, space between two points, measurement
- Non-examples: Organization, group, club, society
Template and Class Instructions
(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 Island of the Blue Dolphins.
- Choose a vocabulary word and type it into the center title box.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary and enter it into the description box under Definition.
- 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.
- Think of at least three characteristics that help expand the meaning beyond the definition.
- Provide written and visual examples of the word.
- Provide written and visual non-examples of the word.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | Student entered a correct definition for the vocabulary word and included the part of speech. | Student entered a correct definition for the vocabulary word, but did not include the correct part of speech. | Student entered an incorrect definition for the vocabulary word, and/or did not include the correct part of speech. |
| Characteristics | Student provided at least three characteristics of the vocabulary word or concept to expand or clarify the definition. | Student provided two characteristics of the vocabulary word or concept to expand or clarify the definition. | Student provided only one characteristic of the vocabulary word or concept to expand or clarify the definition. |
| Examples | Student provided at least three examples demonstrating understanding of the vocabulary word. | Student provided two examples demonstrating understanding of the vocabulary word. | Student provided only one example demonstrating understanding of the vocabulary word. |
| Non-Examples | Student provided at least three non-examples demonstrating understanding of the vocabulary word. | Student provided two non-examples demonstrating understanding of the vocabulary word. | Student provided only one non-example demonstrating understanding of the vocabulary word. |
Activity Overview
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 league:
- Definition: A unit of distance, estimated at about three miles
- Characteristics: Karana spotted the ship several leagues away
- Examples: Distance, space between two points, measurement
- Non-examples: Organization, group, club, society
Template and Class Instructions
(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 Island of the Blue Dolphins.
- Choose a vocabulary word and type it into the center title box.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary and enter it into the description box under Definition.
- 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.
- Think of at least three characteristics that help expand the meaning beyond the definition.
- Provide written and visual examples of the word.
- Provide written and visual non-examples of the word.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | Student entered a correct definition for the vocabulary word and included the part of speech. | Student entered a correct definition for the vocabulary word, but did not include the correct part of speech. | Student entered an incorrect definition for the vocabulary word, and/or did not include the correct part of speech. |
| Characteristics | Student provided at least three characteristics of the vocabulary word or concept to expand or clarify the definition. | Student provided two characteristics of the vocabulary word or concept to expand or clarify the definition. | Student provided only one characteristic of the vocabulary word or concept to expand or clarify the definition. |
| Examples | Student provided at least three examples demonstrating understanding of the vocabulary word. | Student provided two examples demonstrating understanding of the vocabulary word. | Student provided only one example demonstrating understanding of the vocabulary word. |
| Non-Examples | Student provided at least three non-examples demonstrating understanding of the vocabulary word. | Student provided two non-examples demonstrating understanding of the vocabulary word. | Student provided only one non-example demonstrating understanding of the vocabulary word. |
How Tos about Island of the Blue Dolphins Visual Vocabulary
Organize a classroom vocabulary word wall for Island of the Blue Dolphins
Display key vocabulary words from Island of the Blue Dolphins on a dedicated bulletin board or wall in your classroom. Visual reminders help students recall and use new words throughout the unit.
Invite students to contribute their own vocabulary discoveries
Encourage students to add newly found words from their reading to the word wall along with definitions and illustrations. This fosters ownership and deepens engagement.
Review and discuss word wall entries regularly
Set aside time each week to review and discuss entries as a class. This practice reinforces understanding and allows students to share examples or ask questions about unfamiliar words.
Incorporate word wall vocabulary into classroom activities
Plan writing prompts, games, or discussions that require students to use words from the wall. This encourages practical application and helps students internalize vocabulary.
Celebrate vocabulary growth at the end of the unit
Highlight students' growth by reviewing all the words added and recognizing students’ efforts. Consider a fun quiz or group activity to celebrate their expanding vocabulary!
Frequently Asked Questions about Island of the Blue Dolphins Visual Vocabulary
What is a Frayer Model and how can I use it to teach vocabulary from Island of the Blue Dolphins?
A Frayer Model is a graphic organizer that helps students deepen their understanding of vocabulary by exploring its definition, characteristics, examples (synonyms), and non-examples (antonyms). To use it for Island of the Blue Dolphins, have students pick a word from the text and fill out each section, using both words and images to reinforce meaning.
How do I create a visual vocabulary board for Island of the Blue Dolphins?
To create a visual vocabulary board for Island of the Blue Dolphins, choose key words from the book, then use a Frayer Model template. Fill in each section with the word's definition, characteristics, examples, and non-examples, adding images, drawings, or photos to visually represent each part.
What are some effective vocabulary words to use from Island of the Blue Dolphins for a 4th or 5th grade lesson?
Effective vocabulary words from Island of the Blue Dolphins for grades 4–5 include league, cove, provisions, tide, and canoe. These words help students connect with the book’s setting, characters, and survival themes.
What are the steps for students to complete a Frayer Model activity with words from Island of the Blue Dolphins?
Students should: 1) Pick a vocabulary word from the book, 2) Find its definition in a dictionary, 3) List characteristics, 4) Provide examples and synonyms, 5) Give non-examples or antonyms, and 6) Add illustrations or photos to support understanding.
Why is teaching vocabulary visually helpful for students reading Island of the Blue Dolphins?
Teaching vocabulary visually helps students comprehend and remember new words by linking meanings to images and real-life examples. This strategy is especially useful with Island of the Blue Dolphins, where context and setting are key to understanding the story.
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Island of the Blue Dolphins
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