This document presents information about the Renuka-Frayer diagram, a graphic organizer designed by Dr. Renuka Rajasekaran to address limitations of the traditional Frayer diagram. The Renuka-Frayer diagram allows for multiple characteristics of terms to be displayed in an organized manner. It can be adapted for individual or collaborative use both online and offline. Examples are provided to demonstrate how the diagram can be customized and applied to analyze concepts across disciplines.

1. B
Progressive Education Series 2014
Volume 1 – Issue 3, pp. 1-14
Renuka Rajasekaran
Progressive Education Series presents free
customized content, in a one topic per
presentation format. It is ideal for use in
Professional Learning Communities and in
Teacher Education Programs and Workshops.
Please feel free to contact the author for addition
help.
rekharajaseran@gmail.com
Focus: New
Generation
Science
Standards

2. B
Dr. Renuka Rajasekaran
PhD (Chemistry); PhD (Education); PhD (Educational Leadership)
Educator & Instructional Coach
Content in this Presentation
Section 1: Limitations of Frayer Diagram
Section 2: Renuka-Frayer Diagram – A Basic Template
Section 3: Design Principles in Renuka-Frayer Diagram
Section 4: Renuka-Frayer Diagram in Personalized Learning
Section 5: Renuka-Frayer Basic Template can be Modeled
in Any Manner
Section 6: A Worked Out Example for Renuka-Frayer
Diagram
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3. B
C D
D
In STEM/STEAM fields, an
entity has multiple
characteristics. As shown in
Table 1, at least 16 different
characteristics falling under
four categories are possible
[1]. Frayer diagram does not
have provisions to
accommodate these
characteristics.
Figure 1. Limitations of Frayer Diagram
Frayer Diagram (shown in the center of Figure 1 ) is a popular graphic
organizer for vocabulary terms. However, it has limitations in its
applications. The foremost limitation is it does not provide for the
cognitive demands of rigorous instruction. Especially in STEM and
STEAM disciplines face great difficulty with Frayer diagram (Figure 1).
This is because of the cognitive and competency related complexity of
the scientific, technical, and mathematical terms.
RENUKA-FRAYER DIAGRAM: A Universal Learning Tool for All Disciplinary Core
Ideas, Cross Cutting Concepts, and Science & Engineering Practices
For many vocabulary
terms, examples come
in different varieties
and categories
Non-Examples are not possible
for many terms.
In cases, where non-examples
are possible, they may have no
relevance to the context
Definitions by and large
are standard phrases.
Students’ work with
definitions and apply
them. On the other hand
every vocabulary term has
so many attributes related
to its origin and its
context with the family of
related words that need
to be accommodated.
Section 1. Limitations of Frayer Diagram
Page - 2
Characteristics of Materials
First-order characteristics
1. Existence/Affirmation-negation
2. Instance/Identification
3. Substance/Definition
a. Nature
b. Label
4. Character/Description
5. Function/Application
a. Modes
b. Uses
c. Means
6. Rationale/Explication
Second-order characteristics
7. Concomitance
a. Conjunction
b. Disjunction
8. Equivalence
9. Difference
a. Disproportion
b. Subordination
Third-order characteristics
10. Relation
11. Correlation
12. Conditionality
a. Consequence
b. Antecedence
13. Biconditionality (causality)
Extra order characteristics
14. Deliberations
15. Unspecified feature
16. Unclear Behavior
These limitations have been addressed in the Renuka-
Frayer diagram. Renuka-Frayer diagrams were developed
in 2003 [2] and since then they have been in use and have
been found extremely useful by very many educators in all
subjects [3].
Table 1. Four orders of characteristics of materials

4. RENUKA-FRAYER DIAGRAM: FILLABLE EDITABLE TEMPLATE
In the next slide, a basic template for Renuka-Frayer diagram is provided.
However, as shown in slides 8 through 12, the diagram can be adapted to any
requirement and can be constructed in any design.
Individual work is quite convenient on the Renuka-Frayer diagram; at the same
time, any level of collaboration can be infused without any difficulty. From
pairs to as large as a group of 14 members can work simultaneously and
collaboratively on the Renuka-Frayer diagram – manually in different formats;
electronically in different formats both offline and online.
Image adapted from:
http://www.saleschannel-europe.com/2012/06/collaboration-your-path-to-a-sustainable-competitive-advantage.html#lightbox/0/
Harnessing Cognitive Diversity
Renuka-Frayer diagram is a
wonderful tool for harnessing the
benefits of cognitive diversity
through co-creation, collaboration,
communication, and connection.

5. 6. Half-Cell Reactions
Theme
Sub-Theme
Key Word
Symbol Unit
Concept
1st Order
Derived Relationships
Alternate Names
Similar Terms
Root Word:
Real World
Phenomena
Possible Projects/Extension
Activities
Synonyms:
DEFINITION
Antonyms:
Labs/Mini labs/Inquiry Chart/Tables/Flowcharts/Concept Maps
Graphs
Figures/Pictures
Corresponding term in native
language/other languages
Resources
for Further
Reading
Renuka-Frayer Diagram, a Basic Template
2nd order
Equation(s)
3rd order Extra order
…………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………
………………………………..
Characteristics
Page - 1

6. Renuka-Frayer Graphic Organizer has been
constructed on the seven principles of
universal design [4]:
1. Equitability in use
2. Flexibility of use
3. Simplicity and intuitiveness of use
4. Ability to provide perceptible
information/data
5. Error-proof operations
6. Low physical effort
7. Size and Space for Approach and Use
Renuka-Frayer Graphic Organizer can
be used as a hard copy or can be
electronically used. In the electronic
usage, it can be done off line or
online. It can be collaboratively used
online. PPT –slide format is an ideal
format for effective use.
Renuka-Frayer Graphic Organizer is
domain-free, that is, it can be used for
all contents in all subjects.
The design is adaptable for any subject
matter.
Renuka-Frayer Graphic Organizer is a
classic twenty-first century learning tool
and engages the learner in all the four
Cs, namely, collaboration, critical
thinking, creativity, and communication.
RENUKA-FRAYER DIAGRAM: A Universal Learning Tool for All Disciplinary Core
Ideas, Cross Cutting Concepts, and Science & Engineering Practices
Section 3. Design Principles in Renuka-Frayer Diagram
This basic template is quite adaptable – one can customize it according to the needs.
Some provisions can be dropped and some can be added.
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7. Choices & Voices
There is no limit to how Renuka-Frayer Graphic
Organizer can be put to use in learning. Renuka-Frayer
Graphic Organizer is not limited to vocabulary alone. It
can be adapted for any analysis on any concept.
Every Single Concept of a theme is amenable for
working on with Renuka-Frayer Diagram.
Choices & Voices plus Creativity
There is absolutely not one design for
Renuka-Frayer diagram – be it
electronic or the paper version, there
are different design principles that
students can adopt to do the graphic
organizer, then they can apply it to
the concept/theme in hand.
Similarly, Renuka-Frayer Graphic
Organizer can be made on different
materials from recycled trash,
magnetic tapes, paper plates, etc.
Students can choose material
relevant to the theme.
Renuka-Frayer Graphic Organizer is domain-free, that is,
it can be used for all contents in all subjects.
Henceforth, it is ideal for interdisciplinary projects. Each
student can work on one disciplinary core idea of the
same theme and create a valuable interdisciplinary
product involving cross-cutting concepts. Long term
projects can be done on the Renuka-Frayer diagram
template can be posted on a PPT slide and it can be
collaboratively developed. Comments can be shared
between participants and between the participants and
the teacher – making it truly easy to grade.
Renuka-Frayer diagram can be readily
used by learners of all ages from play
school kids to adult learners. The
organizer can be shaped like different
animals, insects, vehicles, fort, etc.,
adding fun to the activity. Students
with special needs enjoy this activity
very well.
RENUKA-FRAYER DIAGRAM: A Universal Learning Tool for All Disciplinary Core
Ideas, Cross Cutting Concepts, and Science & Engineering Practices
Section 4. Renuka-Frayer Diagram in Personalized & Collaborative Learning both Online and Offline
Page - 5
“Personalized learning is instruction that offers pedagogy, curriculum, and
learning environments to meet the individual student’s needs. The
experience is tailored to learning preferences and the specific interests of
different learners. In a personalized learning environment, the learning
objectives and content, as well as the method and pace, may all vary.
Personalization also encompasses differentiated instruction that supports
student progress based on subject matter mastery.”[5].
Picture Courtesy, from Left to Right: https://pixabay.com/en/group-
work-network-silhouettes-454882/
https://www.routledge.com/products/SCBE053021
http://www.os-borcev.si/solska-skupnost/
http://intronetworks.com/the-collaborative-economy-maximize-the-
intellectual-capital-of-your-workforce/

8. Theme:…………………
Sub Theme
………………………………
Key Word
Concept
………………………………
………………………………
Equation (s)
Derived
Relationships
Alternate NamesRoot Word:
Real World Phenomena
Possible
Projects/Extension
Activities
…………..……….........................
Chart/Tables/Flowcharts/Concept
Maps
Definition
Synonyms:
…………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………….
Corresponding term in native
language
Similar Terms
Antonyms:
Symbol
…………
Unit
………..
Labs or Inquiry
Labs
Graphs
Figures/Pictures
Resources for
Further Reading
……………………
……………………
……………………
……………………
…………………..
Section 5: RENUKA-FRAYER Basic Template can be Modeled in any Manner
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9. 6. Half-Cell Reactions
Theme
Sub-Theme
Key Word
Symbol Unit
Concept Equation
Derived Relationships
Alternate Names
Similar Terms
Root Word:
Verbal Phenomenal & Mathematical
VisualEnactive
Real World Phenomena
Possible Projects/Extension
Activities
Synonyms:
DEFINITION
Antonyms:
Labs/Mini labs/Inquiry
Chart/Tables/Flowcharts/Concept Maps
Graphs
Figures/Pictures
Corresponding term in native
language
Resources
for Further
Reading
Characteristics
First Order
Extra Order ( the 4th
Order)
Second Order
Third Order
Section 5: RENUKA-FRAYER Basic Template can be Modeled in any Manner
…………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………….
Page - 7
Corresponding term in other
languages

10. 6. Half-Cell Reactions
Theme
Sub-Theme
Key Word
Symbol Unit
Concept Equation
Derived Relationships
Alternate Names
Similar Terms
Root Word:
Verbal Phenomenal & Mathematical
VisualEnactive
Real World Phenomena
Possible Projects/Extension
Activities
Synonyms:
DEFINITION
Antonyms:
Labs/Mini labs/Inquiry
Chart/Tables/Flowcharts/Concept Maps
Graphs
Figures/Pictures
Corresponding term in native
language
Resources
for Further
Reading
Characteristics
First Order
Second Order
Third Order
…………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………….
Page - 7
Extra Order
( the 4th Order)

11. 6. Half-Cell Reactions
Theme
Sub-Theme
Key Word
Symbol
Unit
Concept Equation
Derived Relationships
Alternate Names
Similar Terms
Root Word:
Verbal Phenomenal & Mathematical
VisualEnactive
Real World Phenomena
Possible Projects/Extension
Activities
Synonyms:
DEFINITION
Antonyms:
Labs/Mini labs/Inquiry
Chart/Tables/Flowcharts/Concept Maps
Graphs
Figures/Pictures
Corresponding term in native
language
Resources
for Further
Reading
Characteristics
First Order
Second Order
Third Order
Section 5: RENUKA-FRAYER Basic Template can be Modeled in any Manner
…………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………….
Page - 8
Enactive
Visual
Extra Order
( the 4th Order)

12. 6. Half-Cell Reactions
Theme
Sub-Theme
Key Word
Symbol Unit
Concept Equation
Derived Relationships
Alternate Names
Similar Terms
Root Word:
Verbal Phenomenal & Mathematical
VisualEnactive
Real World Phenomena
Possible Projects/Extension
Activities
Synonyms:
DEFINITIONAntonyms:
Labs/Mini labs/Inquiry
Chart/Tables/Flowcharts/Concept Maps
GraphsFigures/Pictures
Corresponding term in native
language
Resources
for Further
Reading
Characteristics
First Order
Second Order
Third Order
Section 5: RENUKA-FRAYER Basic Template can be Modeled in any Manner
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Page - 9
Extra Order
( the 4th Order)

13. 6. Half-Cell Reactions
Theme: Electricity
Sub Theme
Basic Electrical
Measurements
Key Word
Symbol: E or V
Unit: Volt, v
Concept
Current, Voltage,
and Resistance
1st order
Exists in electric circuits and
metal junctions
Derived Relationships
Alternate Names
Electrical Potential
Electromotive Force
Similar Terms
• Potential difference
• Electrostatic potential
• Potential energy
• Overpotential
• Voltmeter
• Ac voltage
• Dc voltage
Root Word
Volta
Real World Phenomena
1. Batteries
2. Voltage rating on commercial
batteries
3. Voltage drop in power supply
4. Lightening
5. Electric arc
6. Electroplating
Possible Activities
1. Electric Circuit Construction
2. Batteries
3. Electrostatic generator
4. Electroplating process
5. Electric arc
Voltage
E = IR or V = IR volt
Where I is Current in Amperes
R is Resistance in Ohms
I = E/R amp
R = E/I ohm
Definition
Synonyms: Electromotive Force, Potential Difference
Electric pressure, Electric tension
The difference in electric potential energy
between two points per unit electric charge
Corresponding term in
native language (Tamil)
மின் அழுத்தம்
German: spannung
French: tension
Spanish: voltaje
Resources for Further
Reading
1. http://hyperphysics.phy-
astr.gsu.edu/hbase/electric/
elevol.html
2. http://amasci.com/miscon/v
oltage.html
Antonyms: Not Applicable
Characteristics
Equation
2nd order
• Causes the flow of
electric current
• Generate heat losses
• Equipment operate on
specified voltage
• Can cause electric shocks
3rd order
• Related to Watt and Resistance
• Correlates with current
Extra order
• With no current can voltage alone
be fatal to life?
RENUKA-FRAYER Model: A Worked Out Example for Voltage Page -2

14. REFERENCES
[1] Dillon, J.T. (1984). The Classification of Research Questions. Review of Educational Research, 54: 327–361.
[2] Renuka Rajasekaran, Academic Staff College Lecture, University of Madras, 2005; Pioneer RESA PL Workshop, 2008.
[3] Yolanda Pusey, (2011). Sharp Science Club Journal, 2: 10-12.
[4] Ronald L. Mace (Undated). NC State University, College of Design. Design.ncsu.edu. Retrieved 2013-11-25.
[5] Dream Box Learning (Undated); http://www.dreambox.com/personalized-learning
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