Activity Overview
Students will demonstrate their understanding of vocabulary words by using a Frayer Model. After choosing a word, students provide the definition, example, synonyms, and 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. See below for an example of a completed visual vocabulary board.
Example: agony
- Definition
n. extreme and continued pain; intense physical or mental suffering - Example from Text
“Then Murdoch watched in excruciating agony as the huge ship slowly began to turn -
but it was too late and the iceberg fatally grazed the liner’s side.” - Examples
anguish, misery, torment, torture - Non-Examples
contentment, happiness, joy, comfort
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 The Unsinkable Wreck of the RMS Titanic.
- 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
Students will demonstrate their understanding of vocabulary words by using a Frayer Model. After choosing a word, students provide the definition, example, synonyms, and 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. See below for an example of a completed visual vocabulary board.
Example: agony
- Definition
n. extreme and continued pain; intense physical or mental suffering - Example from Text
“Then Murdoch watched in excruciating agony as the huge ship slowly began to turn -
but it was too late and the iceberg fatally grazed the liner’s side.” - Examples
anguish, misery, torment, torture - Non-Examples
contentment, happiness, joy, comfort
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 The Unsinkable Wreck of the RMS Titanic.
- 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 The Unsinkable Wreck of the RMS Titanic Visual Vocabulary
Integrate Visual Vocabulary Boards into Daily Literacy Routines
Boost vocabulary retention by weaving visual vocabulary boards into your daily lessons. Consistent, brief practice helps students naturally build word knowledge and confidence.
Model How to Select Effective Examples and Non-Examples
Demonstrate the process of choosing clear, relevant examples and non-examples for target words. Show how this deepens understanding and prevents common misconceptions.
Encourage Peer Review and Discussion
Organize quick pair-shares where students review each other's boards. Discussing choices allows students to clarify meanings and learn from diverse perspectives.
Incorporate Technology for Visual Illustrations
Leverage digital tools like Photos for Class or drawing apps to help students illustrate word meanings. This engages visual learners and makes vocabulary practice more interactive.
Assess Understanding with Quick Exit Tickets
Use exit tickets asking students to write a sentence or draw a quick sketch using a new vocabulary word. This provides immediate feedback and reinforces learning.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Unsinkable Wreck of the RMS Titanic Visual Vocabulary
What is a Frayer Model and how can I use it for vocabulary lessons?
A Frayer Model is a graphic organizer that helps students deepen their understanding of vocabulary by defining a word, listing characteristics, providing examples, and giving non-examples. To use it, have students select a word, find its definition, identify characteristics, and include both examples and non-examples—using words and visuals—to build comprehension.
How do I create a visual vocabulary board for 'The Unsinkable Wreck of the RMS Titanic'?
To create a visual vocabulary board for 'The Unsinkable Wreck of the RMS Titanic', pick a vocabulary word from the text, use a Frayer Model to organize its definition, characteristics, examples, and non-examples, and illustrate each section with drawings or licensed photos. This helps students visualize and retain word meanings.
What are some example vocabulary words from 'The Unsinkable Wreck of the RMS Titanic'?
Example vocabulary words from the text include agony, excruciating, graze, liner, and torment. Teachers can provide these or let students select words they find challenging in the reading.
Why is using visual aids important for teaching vocabulary to grades 4-5?
Visual aids make abstract vocabulary more concrete, helping grade 4–5 students understand and remember word meanings. Pictures, drawings, and visual organizers like the Frayer Model support different learning styles and boost engagement and retention.
What is the best way to help students find synonyms and antonyms for vocabulary words?
The best way is to guide students to use print or online dictionaries and thesauruses. Encourage them to brainstorm synonyms and antonyms, discuss word meanings in context, and use examples from the text to reinforce understanding.
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