Teach definitions of 3D geometric shapes with the Frayer Model, a visual organizer that helps students understand key math concepts. The Frayer Model is a vocabulary organizer with 4 sections. Definition, facts, examples, and non examples are the sections to be filled out in regards to the word or concept. Frayer model is a wonderful tool to teach math vocabulary as it creates a visual representation of the word/concept.
Prepare a Frayer model for each geometric solid before the start of the lesson. Cube, cuboid, triangular prism, sphere, pyramid, and cylinder are the more basic geometric solids to teach. Include information such as; number of vertices, edges, faces, sketch of the solid, real life examples, and the mathematical definition.
Frayer Model Template Instructions for Geometric Solids
Circle in Center: Write word or concept (Geometric Solids)
Definition: Define the word based on teacher guided discussion. Students use online and text math dictionaries to define the word. Place students in groups to think of a simple sentence to describe the word. A picture may be included in the definition.
Characteristics: Based on the definition, students will decide on specific attributes of geometric solids that will help define this word. Faces, edges, and vertices are key words to describe this math concept.
Examples: Students, with the aid of the teacher, will find real life examples and label using appropriate math vocabulary. Dice are a real life example and they are one representation of a cube. Frozen juice containers are real life example of a cylinder.
Non Examples: Students will use prior knowledge to think of ideas. Square, circle, and parallel lines are non examples of geometric solids.
Frayer Model Example for Cube
Circle in Center : Write the word cube and draw a picture to represent the word.
Definition: A regular polyhedron for which all faces are square.
Characteristics: 12 edges, 6 vertices, 6 faces, cannot roll
Examples: dice, Rubik's cube, square box (dessert containers are often cube shaped)
Non Examples: ball, desk, door, cylinder, triangular prism
Create a math dictionary for 3D geometric solids with the Frayer Model templates. Select the number of geometric solids you are to teach and photocopy a Frayer Model template for each. Next, create a booklet with the aid of your photocopier. On many photocopy machines there is a function that will decrease the size of the Frayer model to half size and create a booklet. Creating a booklet will keep the information together to assist students when preparing for tests and to keep the information organized. Too often worksheets seem to wander around the class or become lost.
Frayer Models are useful to students as they are selecting much of the information for the template. Students are being active learners as they fill it out. Frayer models can be used for defining geometric 3D solids but also for a variety of other courses. The model is a wonderful template to introduce or review vocabulary or concepts.
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