The Frayer Model - Teaching Vocabulary

The Frayer Model is a learning strategy that uses a graphic organizer to support student understanding of new words. The model was designed by Dorothy Frayer and her colleagues at the University of Wisconsin to provide for a thorough understanding of content vocabulary. Students are asked to provide a Definition of the word, Facts or Characteristics of the word, Examples, and Nonexamples. Using this graphic organizer will lead students to a deeper understanding of a word and its relationship to their own lives. This model aligns nicely with the PicCollage iPad app for a great technology integration opportunity.  Resources: The Frayer Model Map - printable PDF Frayer Model Examples - steps for implementation and example organizers Google Docs Meets Frayer Model - support for implementation

Video Writing Prompts

Image from TeachHub.com

We've all heard it . . "I can't think of any ideas", "I don't know what to write", "I don't know where to start" . . and the most frequent response from students when given a writing assignment . . "I'm thinking!" - to which the teacher replies, "Well, 'think' a little faster."

TeachHub.com offers teachers a new way to approach writing in their classrooms. They are called Video Writing Prompts  and they are offered for grades K-12.

Take it one step further and have your students create their own Video Writing Prompt and share with other colleagues. What a great way to transfer ownership to your students and allow your classroom to become one that is student-centered!