The Frayer Model is a graphical organiser which is used for teaching concepts, and to help students determine, clarify, and analyse word meaning and structure (Starke, 2020). It's a powerful teaching tool as it scaffolds students to develop a comprehensive understanding of a concept and supports the building of mathematical literacy.
It's a four-square model with a selected concept or term placed in the middle, usually inside an oval or a circle. Each of the four sections has a heading, usually definitions, key facts or characteristics, examples, and non-examples. This structure prompts learners to explore and establish relationships between concepts, building deeper knowledge and reinforcing background knowledge. By breaking down a concept into smaller parts, students can more easily remember mathematical terminology, understand their application, and think critically. (Main, 2022)
When helping students consolidate their conceptual understanding and key Mathematical concepts, it can be useful to use an adapted Frayer model where the four squares are divided into a worded problem, a visual representation, a numerical representation, and a common misconception.
For example:
Patrick has placed both his chopsticks on the table. The ends of the chopsticks meet at an angle of 135°. Gareth places a chopstick that is perpendicular to one of Patrick's chopsticks. All the chopsticks meet at a point creating three angles, including two obtuse angles. Determine the value of all three angles.
Now watch as our presenter Matthew unpacks the problem using the adapted Frayer model.
Want to try this in your classroom? Here is a blank adapted Frayer model template for you to use. It's also a great opportunity to divide students into pairs or groups, where each pair/group can attempt a problem and then share their models with the class.
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References
Main, P. (2022). Frayer Model. [online] www.structural-learning.com. Available at: https://www.structural-learning.com/post/frayer-model.
Starke, K. (2020). The Frayer Model: What is It and How to Use It. [online] TeachHUB. Available at: https://www.teachhub.com/teaching-strategies/2020/09/the-frayer-model-what-is-it-and-how-to-use-it/.
