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 “good-natured”.
- Definition: Having or showing a pleasant, kindly disposition
- Characteristics: “While the family said goodbye to the goat, and Aaron placed the rope around her neck, Zlateh stood as patiently and good-naturedly as ever.”
- Examples: Amiable, cordial, friendly, good-hearted
- Non-examples: Aloof, cool, disagreeable, hateful
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
Demonstrate your understanding of the vocabulary words in "Zlateh the Goat" by creating visualizations.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Choose a vocabulary word and type it into the middle box.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary.
- Define the word in one box.
- Describe characteristics of the word in another cell.
- In the bottom cells, provide examples and non-examples of the word in context.
- Illustrate each example (or non-example) using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
- Alternatively, use Photos for Class to show the meaning of the words with the search bar.
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 “good-natured”.
- Definition: Having or showing a pleasant, kindly disposition
- Characteristics: “While the family said goodbye to the goat, and Aaron placed the rope around her neck, Zlateh stood as patiently and good-naturedly as ever.”
- Examples: Amiable, cordial, friendly, good-hearted
- Non-examples: Aloof, cool, disagreeable, hateful
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
Demonstrate your understanding of the vocabulary words in "Zlateh the Goat" by creating visualizations.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Choose a vocabulary word and type it into the middle box.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary.
- Define the word in one box.
- Describe characteristics of the word in another cell.
- In the bottom cells, provide examples and non-examples of the word in context.
- Illustrate each example (or non-example) using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
- Alternatively, use Photos for Class to show the meaning of the words with the search bar.
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 Zlateh the Goat Frayer Model for Vocabulary
Organize a Vocabulary Word Gallery Walk
Set up a gallery walk by displaying students’ Frayer Model boards around the classroom. This encourages students to move, observe, and discuss each other's vocabulary work. Gallery walks promote peer learning and help reinforce vocabulary in a fun, interactive way.
Assign students to create and display their Frayer Models
Have each student complete a Frayer Model for a chosen vocabulary word, then hang or place their finished boards around the room. This makes vocabulary learning visible and accessible for all students.
Guide students to observe and reflect on peers’ work
Invite students to walk around, view the displayed models, and take notes or use sticky notes to add comments or questions. Encourage respectful, constructive feedback. This helps deepen understanding and sparks discussion.
Facilitate a whole-class vocabulary review discussion
Lead a class discussion where students share their observations and highlight interesting examples or creative illustrations they noticed. Connect new vocabulary to the text and to students’ experiences. This reinforces learning and builds community.
Frequently Asked Questions about Zlateh the Goat Frayer Model for Vocabulary
What is a Frayer Model and how can I use it to teach vocabulary from 'Zlateh the Goat'?
A Frayer Model is a graphic organizer that helps students understand vocabulary words by defining the word, describing its characteristics, giving examples (synonyms), and non-examples (antonyms). To use it with 'Zlateh the Goat', have students choose a word from the story, fill in the model with definitions and examples, and illustrate each part to build deeper understanding.
How do I set up a visual vocabulary board activity for my 4th or 5th graders?
Start by having students select a vocabulary word from 'Zlateh the Goat'. Use a Frayer Model template with sections for definition, characteristics, examples, and non-examples. Let students illustrate each section using drawings or images from resources like 'Photos for Class.' This makes vocabulary learning interactive and memorable.
Why is using examples and non-examples important in vocabulary instruction?
Including examples and non-examples helps students distinguish the precise meaning of vocabulary words. This strategy deepens understanding by clarifying what a word is and what it is not, making it easier for students to use new words accurately in context.
What are some tips for helping students visualize vocabulary words from literature?
Encourage students to connect words to specific scenes or characters from the text. Have them use drawings, storyboards, or online images to represent the word’s meaning. Visualization supports memory and comprehension, especially for abstract terms.
Can students choose their own vocabulary words from 'Zlateh the Goat' or should I assign them?
You can do either! Assigning words ensures coverage of key terms, while letting students choose words they find challenging or interesting can boost engagement and ownership of learning.
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