Context clues — это подсказки, которые располагаются в предложении, абзаце, и помогают читателю понять значение новых, незнакомых или сложных, редко употребляемых, слов.
Очень часто их можно встретить в текстах для подготовки к тестам и экзаменам, которые проверяют способность понимать общий смысл, без вникания в детали и значение каждого слова. В экзаменационных текстах TOEFL, IELTS, B1 First, Cambridge Advanced, очень многие вопросы построены на умении расшифровывать context clues.
Этот полезнейший навык пригодится не только на экзаменах, а также при чтении статей, академических и художественных текстов. Поэтому каждый, кто изучает иностранный язык, должен уметь распознавать и считывать context clues.
В этой статье я расскажу, какие типы context clues бывают, мы с вами рассмотрим каждый из них на примерах, и, уже после изучения этого материала, вы сможете различать context clues в текстах и догадываться о значении новых слов из контекста не просто интуитивно, а четко понимая, какой тип context clues перед вами, и как он работает.
Содержание:
- Что такое «контекстуальные сигналы»
- Type 1: Restatement/Synonym Clues
- Type 2: Contrast/Antonym Clues
- Type 3: Definition Clues
- Type 4: Example/Explanation clues
- Type 5: Inference/General Context Clues
- Пунктуация в context clues
- Способы запоминания типов context clues
Чтобы научиться считывать context clues, нужно научиться расшифровывать то, что я называю «сигналы». Это не общепринятый термин, я использую его со своими студентами, и так обозначаю те слова или другие средства, которые указывают нам на тот или иной тип подсказок.
Сейчас мы перейдем к разбору каждого из пяти типов, и в каждом мы будем выделять их особые «сигналы».
Самый простой способ донести значение незнакомого сложного слова в контексте — упростить его или переформулировать. У каждого слова высокого уровня есть более простые слова-синонимы, или слова со схожим значением. Синонимы могут выделяться запятыми, обозначаться при помощи слова or, или приводиться в качестве примеров-однородных членов предложения, которые наведут вас на понимание значения нужного слова.
He felt remorse, or shame, for his rude behaviour.
В данном примере слово remorse схоже по значению по словом shame (стыд). К тому же после автор дает еще одну подсказку (которая относится уже к другому типу, но все равно помогает понять суть), что это чувство возникло в результате грубого поведения.
The weather was dreadful — wet, dull and cold and awful in all senses.
Если вам не знакомо прилагательное dreadful, то его значение прояснится при помощи синонима awful и ряда примеров, указывающих на характеристики погоды.
We must not perpetuate, or continue, the religious divisions of the past.
Чтобы помочь понять значение глагола perpetuate, в предложение вводится пояснение с сигнальным словом or, благодаря чему мы с вами понимаем, что perpetuate можно заменить более простым словом continue.
Иногда значение слова или фразы проясняется в контексте через противоположные значения. В этом случае слова but, however, unlike, while, и другие, выражающие контраст, подскажут вам, что это именно antonym context clue. Возможен вариант, когда автор вводит слово, выражение, или пояснение, противоположное по значению, которое проясняет для читателя значение незнакомого слова.
He had a turbulent character, unlike his wife who was shy and quiet.
Благодаря сигнальному unlike, мы понимаем, что слово turbulent противопоставляется словам shy and quiet, и выступает их антонимом.
I want to go to a tranquil place for my holiday; I am so tired of the noisy city.
В этом предложении нет сигнального слова, но по смыслу вы понимаете, что если автор от чего-то устал (в данном контексте от noisy city), то ему хочется чего-то противоположного.
Bob was so industrious, while his colleagues demonstrated laziness and very little interest in work.
В отличие от коллег, которые проявляют лень и незаинтересованность, Боб проявляет противоположную характеристику. И вам необязательно её называть и переводить, главное — что вы поняли смысл, и то, как работают Contrast or Antonym Clues.
Бывают случаи, когда слово или фраза объясняется сразу после того, как появляется в предложении. Definition — это целая фраза, которая вводится при помощи relative clause, как правило non-defining, который выделяется запятыми. Часто при помощи таких подсказок «расшифровывают» значения существительных и терминов, но и глаголы с прилагательными — не исключение.
Our school introduced continuous assessment, which is a form of educational examination that evaluates a student’s progress throughout a prescribed course.
После слова which поясняется, что такое continuous assessment, и дается полная расшифровка, определение термина.
After the flight we suffered from fatigue, which meant we were extremely tired as a result of physical exertion.
Definition вводится фразой which meant (это значило), и мы можем понять, что слово fatigue обозначает чрезмерную усталость.
The college informed me that I was eligible, so I could enter the course, which made me happy.
В этом предложении даётся не полное определение, а его часть, и читателю нужно додумать, что eligible обозначает то, что абитуриент может поступить на курс. А слово which, которое служило сигналом в предыдущих примерах, не имеет здесь своей сигнальной функции и не относится к этому типу подсказки.
Этот способ контекстуальной подсказки предполагает мышление от частного к общему (если общее — это незнакомое слово) или от общего к частному. Иногда текст даёт два или больше примеров, которые иллюстрируют неизвестное понятие, и чтобы догадаться, что оно обозначает, нужно уметь систематизировать и обобщать информацию. Отличие этого способа от синонимов в том, что пример не может заменить собой целевое слово, а представляет из себя более узкое понятие в категории, один из вариантов.
Сигналами могут служить однородные члены предложения — примеры, которые помогают вам понять значение незнакомого слова.
Nocturnal creatures such as owls and bats always scare me.
Что общего у сов и летучих мышей? Это существа, которые активны ночью. Вот так, при помощи анализа примеров, мы можем догадаться о значении слова nocturnal.
Sun, moon, stars and other celestial bodies move according to certain laws.
В этом предложении используется та же логика, что и в предыдущем: мы делаем вывод на основе систематизации и нахождения общего. Солнце, луна, звезды — это небесные тела.
Это более продвинутый вид контекстуальных подсказок, потому что он предполагает, что читатель сможет заключить и сделать вывод о значении незнакомого слова по общему смыслу, примерам, которые присутствуют в предложении, в абзаце или в целом тексте.
Это более сложный вариант, когда нужно включать логику, и именно поэтому его так любят составители тестов. Например, в части Reading на TOEFL iBT есть отдельный тип вопросов, который проверяет именно умение делать выводы из более широкого, общего контекста.
Сигналами здесь будут служить слова, указывающие на причину, цель либо на результат: so, because, that’s why и другие.
He is so gregarious; he would talk non-stop, about anything. Yesterday we got tired of it.
По контексту понятно, что человек много говорит, и утомляет этим собеседников. Из этого можно сделать вывод (infer) о значении слова gregarious.
The day was so sweltering that I had to take off my jacket.
Если человек снял пиджак (а не надел), значит sweltering обозначает что-то вроде hot — такая логика должна быть при анализе этого предложения.
She is very compassionate, because she volunteers for some NGOs, you can always ask her for help and she will eagerly give you a hand.
Значение прилагательного compassionate раскрывается в пояснениях после слова because: человек готов помочь, занимается волонтерством, и, даже если вы не можете отыскать точного перевода слова, вы уже понимаете, что оно обозначает.
Обратите внимание, что часто авторы используют пунктуацию или другие приемы выделения на письме, чтобы обозначить context clues разных типов:
- кавычки (quotation marks) могут показывать, что у слово есть специальное, возможно, переносное значение;
- скобки (brackets) и дефисы (dashes) заключают определение или примеры;
- курсив (italics) чтобы выделить какое-либо слово или определение.
И еще хочу обратить ваше внимание, что в предложении могут сочетаться context clues разных типов. Например, synonym + example или antonym + definition. Вариации могут быть любые, ведь авторы используют разные средства в текстах.
Мы рассмотрели 5 типов context clues, и в объяснении я расположила их от простого к сложному. Но сейчас, когда вы усвоили разницу между ними, хочу напоследок поделиться полезным приемом для их запоминания.
Чтобы в любой момент вы могли вспомнить, какие типы контекстуальных подсказок бывают, запомните акроним LEADS:
- L (Logic) — Inference Clues — вы опираетесь на общий контекст и догадываетесь о смысле слова.
- E (Example) — Example Clues — однородные члены предложения подсказывают вам, что обозначает незнакомое, обобщающее их слово.
- A (Antonyms) — Contrast Clues — вы понимаете значение слова, за счет анализа антонимов.
- D (Definition) — Definition Clues — в предложении приводится определение слова.
- S (Synonyms) — Restatement Clues — незнакомое слово перефразируется и упрощается за счет знакомых вам слов-синонимов.
Теперь, читая тексты при подготовке к экзамену, для работы или просто для удовольствия, вы будете без труда распознавать contect clues разных типов, догадываться о значениях незнакомых слов по контексту, без словаря.
А отработать ваши новые знания и умения на практике можно на персональных занятиях в ENGINFORM. Теперь у нас действует не только предложение курсов, но и новая уникальная услуга — МОНО-УРОК.
Это индивидуальное занятие длительностью 90 минут, на котором вы от и до разбираете нужную вам тему. Узнайте больше о формате моно-урока и попробуйте! Теперь не нужно покупать целый курс, чтобы разобраться с одной непонятной темой.
Надеюсь, сегодняшнее объяснение вам понравилось.
Напишите мне в комментариях, насколько эта статья была полезна для вас, и получается ли у вас находить context clues в текстах.
Увидели ошибку в тексте? Выделите её и нажмите на появившуюся стрелку или CTRL+Enter.
In reading and listening, a context clue is a form of information (such as a definition, synonym, antonym, or example) that appears near a word or phrase and offers direct or indirect suggestions about its meaning.
Context clues are more commonly found in nonfiction texts than in fiction, although they are sometimes found in children’s literature, often with the goal of building readers’ vocabulary. Words can have multiple meanings, so being able to infer the correct definition from context is a valuable reading comprehension skill.
Types of Context Clues
One way to learn new words is through the context of the words around them. We infer the meaning of these words from what’s going on or what has already been established in the text. Clues for deciphering a word’s meaning can be rendered in the form of anything from a subtle hint to a straight-out explanation, definition, or illustration. Context clues can also take the form of synonyms, antonyms, word-structure clues, comparisons (such as metaphors and similes), and contrasts. For example:
Synonym context clues offer words nearby with the same meaning:
- Synonym: The annual bazaar is scheduled for the last day of school. It’s always a fun festival.
- Synonym: «That charlatan!» he cried. «That absolute fake!»
Antonym context clues offer nearby words with opposite meanings.
- Antonym: «You look pretty content about it, not like you’re all bent out of shape at all,» he noted.
- Antonym: «No, no, that didn’t literally happen,» she said. «I was speaking figuratively.»
Definition context clues just spell out the meaning in a straightforward manner:
- Definition: In Britain, they call the trunk of a car the «boot.»
- Definition: «The lingerie department,» she directed the confused customer, «is where you’ll find the bras and panties.»
An explanation or illustration can also show the context of the word:
- Explanation: She looked at the random collection that had been thrown in the packing box at the last minute—from toothpaste and razors to spatulas and sticky notes. «Well, that’s quite a melange, isn’t it?» she remarked.
- Explanation: «No, no, that’s just a crane fly, not a gigantic mosquito,» he explained.
Word-structure clues are understood in two ways: a reader or listener understands a base word and a prefix (or suffix) and infers the meaning from the combination of the two, or the reader knows a word origin and upon hearing a word of similar origin, infers its meaning.
For instance, if you know that «anti-» means against, it’s easy to infer the meaning of the word «anti-establishment.»
- Word-structure: The anti-establishment protesters picketed the town hall.
Likewise, if you’re aware that a «memorial» is something in remembrance for a person who has died, you might readily intuit the meaning of the following sentence, even if you’d never previously heard the term «in memoriam.»
- Word-structure: The book was dedicated in memoriam of his father.
Comparison context clues show the meaning of a word through similarities to other items or elements, similies or metaphors:
- Comparison: He looked absolutely flummoxed, like a toddler staring down at his feet on the floor who just isn’t sure about this whole «walking» thing.
- Comparison: «No,» she said, «I’m as carefree about it as a bird floating among the clouds.»
Contrast context clues show meaning through dissimilar elements:
- Contrast: «It isn’t exactly the melee that I expected from your description,» he said. «The kids are just roughhousing a little. I expected them to be bruised and bleeding.»
- Contrast: I know she said she could reconstitute the dried fruit, but a soggy raisin just isn’t a grape.
Limitations of Context Clues
In «The Vocabulary Book: Learning and Instruction,» author Michael Graves writes:
«All in all, the descriptive research on learning from context shows that context can produce learning of word meanings and that although the probability of learning a word from a single occurrence is low, the probability of learning a word from context increases substantially with additional occurrences of the word. That is how we typically learn from context. We learn a little from the first encounter with a word and then more and more about a word’s meaning as we meet it in new and different contexts.»
Learning new words from context alone does have its limitations, as this method is not always definitive. Often, context may give a reader a general idea of a word, but not a full meaning. If the sentences in which an unknown word appears don’t clearly spell out it’s meaning, that meaning may be lost. For long-term retention, readers need to see a word multiple times. The more often an inferred definition is included, the more likely the reader will retain and understand a new word.
Sources
- Graves, Michael F. «The Vocabulary Book: Learning and Instruction.» Teachers College Press, 2006
Context clues are integral to how we make sense of things. But what are context clues? And why are context clues important? We’re going to break down context clues in sentences and situations so that you can see why they’re such an important element of empiricism; or how we come to know the world through senses. Hah! That’s an example of “context clues” in action. Follow along as we break down strategies for how they work.
Context Clues Meaning
First, let’s define context clues
How do we make sense of the world? Through intuition certainly, but through context as well. Context is how we know books can be found in libraries and cold cuts can be found in delis. It’s also how we know words can be understood, even if we lack their definition. This video breaks down how context clues are used to deduce syntax.
What are Context Clues? • Using Context Clues to Figure Out New Words by Khan Academy
Context clues are essential tools for writers, readers, and pretty much anybody interested in making sense of the world. But before we jump into some context clues examples, let’s first define context clues.
What are context clues?
Context clues are elements of grammatical and visual composition that suggest meaning. In syntax, context clues give readers the ability to make sense of words of which they don’t know the meaning. In semiotics, context clues give people the ability to make sense of signs of which they don’t know the meaning.
Purpose of Context Clues:
- Suggest meaning
- Conceal meaning
- Explain meaning
Context Clues Types
What are context clues in grammar?
There are a bunch of different strategies for using context clues in grammar; let’s break down a few!
Synonym
A synonym is a word or phrase that means something similar to another word or phrase. For example, “sick” and “ill” are synonyms. But how do you use context clues in a sentence? Synonyms are also used as context clues to suggest meaning in words that aren’t often understood.
Here are some examples:
-
She was a callous woman: mean, malicious, and inconsiderate.
-
It was mezzanotte – the clock struck the signal to midnight.
-
He was cantankerous: angry and always looking for a fight.
You may be wondering, “why don’t writers just use words that most people understand?” Good question. There’s certainly merit to writing in simple language – but writers want to flex their linguistic muscle.
Antonym
An antonym is a word or phrase that means the opposite of another word or phrase. For example, “sick” and “healthy” are antonyms.
Antonyms, like synonyms, are also used as context clues to suggest meaning in words that aren’t often understood.
Here are some examples:
-
It was a brutish afternoon, quite unlike the sunny ones the week prior.
-
He found the latter lecture esoteric – but the former too simplistic; something anybody could understand.
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The scene was bedlam, ironic considering it was supposed to be quiet and serene.
Antonyms tend to flow better than synonyms in syntax because they rely on contrast.
Denotation
A denotation is a “dictionary definition.” For example, a denotation of “hat” would be a “clothing item worn on the head.”
Denotations are used as context clues to outwardly explain what certain words mean.
Here are a few examples:
-
He had already signed an affidavit, a legal written statement for use in court.
-
It was accidental, as in “not done on purpose.”
-
The story was salacious, showing a special interest in sex.
Denotations work best when writers would rather tell the writer what a word means rather than suggesting it.
Context Clues Definition in Visual Language
What are context clues in semiotics?
Context clues are used in semiotics to give meaning to the visual world. But what is semiotics? Semiotics is the study of objects and signs. It’s essentially what tells us that a four-leaf clover means “good luck.” However, semiotics is often built through context clues.
Here are some examples:
Context clues lead to a conclusion
In life, sometimes things are exactly what you’d expect. For example, say you leave your rambunctious dog home alone for six hours, then find a ripped-up pillow when you return; it’s fair to say that the dog probably destroyed the pillow.
The context clues, i.e., the “rambunctious” nature of the dog and the implied fact that dogs sometimes rip pillows apart when, tell us that the most likely reason for the event is that the dog destroyed the pillow.
This type of critical reasoning is abductive because it “takes away” the most likely reason for an event based on a series of observations.
Consequently, deductive reasoning is a form of critical reasoning in which a reason must be guaranteed by the set of observations. For example: if a hat is a clothing item worn on a head, and you’re wearing a clothing item on your head, then you’re wearing a hat. The context clues, i.e., the denotation of “hat” and the fact that you’re wearing something that matches the denotation of “hat,” guarantee the validity.
This strategy is used in writing… most commonly in mystery stories. Think about any “whodunnit” story; i.e., Sherlock Holmes, Murder on the Orient Express, Scooby Doo, etc.
In this clip from Murder on the Orient Express, Hercule Poirot (Albert Finney), outlines the context clues that add up to an iconic deduction.
What Does Context Clues Mean? • Context Clues in Murder on the Orient Express
It is merely through context clues, such as the language that Mary Debenham (Vanessa Redgrave) used and the selective memory of Colonel Arburthnott (Sean Connery), that Poirot was able to tell that everybody was lying.
Context clues lead to a false-conclusion
Other times, context clues lead to a false-conclusion. They may be valid as premises in a deduction; but they don’t necessarily reflect the truth. We see this strategy used a lot in comedy writing.
This scene from Seinfeld establishes a series of context clues that point to Kramer (Michael Richards) being a pimp. Of course, he’s not – but the characters in the diegesis don’t know that. Check it out below!
Context Clues Definition in TV • Context Clues Examples in Seinfeld
Let’s break down the context clues:
1) The jacket is a replica of the “technicolor dreamcoat” from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; one of Kramer’s favorite plays.
2) The cane is an item Elaine was reviewing for work; which Kramer took.
3) The hat merely landed before Kramer’s feet, so he decided to put it on.
4) The sports car is borrowed as collateral because Kramer’s car was taken from a parking lot used for prostitution.
All of these context clues point to Kramer being a pimp. In a cruel twist of irony, Kramer is whisked, or quickly taken away, to jail.
Up Next
What is Inductive Reasoning?
Context clues are a small, but integral part of critical reasoning. Want to learn more about critical reasoning? Check out our next article on inductive reasoning, where we break down the term with examples from Plato, Monty Python, and more. By the end, you’ll know what inductive reasoning is and how to use it.
Up Next: Inductive Reasoning →
Published August 15, 2022
When you come across an unfamiliar word while reading, how do you try to understand its meaning? Chances are you use context clues—even if you’ve never heard of that term.
Faced with a sea of unfamiliar words, beginning readers learn many techniques for decoding words and expanding their vocabularies. Teachers use the term decoding to refer to the ability to see a written word and read it aloud.
Looking for context clues is one technique that is helpful for readers of all ages and experience levels. But how can you identify a context clue?
What are context clues?
The term context clues is used as a way of referring to the bits of information within a text that can serve as hints to help a reader understand the meaning of an unfamiliar or unusual word or passage. In effect, context clues can be anything that helps you to figure out or guess the meaning of a word or passage when you’re unsure of its meaning. Context clues can be part of the same sentence or they may be part of the text that comes before or follows. Because most of our vocabulary is gained through reading, it is important that we are able to recognize and take advantage of context clues.
WATCH: Words Bookworms Mispronounce Because We Read Them First
What does a context clue look like?
There are at least four kinds of context clues that are quite common:
- Synonym (or repeat context clue): An author will use more than one word that means the same thing. For example, there may be a complex word followed by a restatement using a simpler word in the same or following sentence: Felipe is a miser. He’s always been a cheapskate.
- Antonym (or contrast context clue): The text may include a word or words that have the opposite meaning, which can reveal the meaning of an unknown term: Stella has always dressed flamboyantly. I’ve never seen her wear a dull color.
- Explanation (or a definition context clue): An unknown word is explained within the sentence or in the sentence immediately after: On Friday, we visited the arboretum, a garden dedicated to the exhibition of trees and plants.
- Specific example (or an example context clue): The text provides one or more examples used to define the term: The children were able to observe several crustaceans, including crabs, lobsters, and shrimp.
There may also be word-part context clues in which a common prefix, suffix, or root will suggest at least part of the meaning of a word.
A general sense context clue lets the reader puzzle out a word meaning from whatever information is available—and this is the most common kind of context clue. The relationships between words are not directly obvious and instead implied.
Others describe context clues in three ways:
- semantic or meaning clues: For example, when reading a story about cats, the reader will have the expectation that it will contain words associated with cats.
- syntactic or word order clues: The order of the words in a sentence can indicate what part of speech a missing word must be (for example, a verb).
- picture clues: From an early age, beginning readers are taught to look at illustrations to help with the identification of a word.
In this beginner’s tutorial, learners will be able to learn what the Different Kinds of Context Clues and determined the meaning of unknown vocabulary.
The purpose of this lesson is to Increase students’ comprehension by the use of context clues.
I. Objectives
Students will be able to:
1. Use context clues to determine the meaning of unknown vocabulary
2. Generate ideas for writing from discussion
3. Create transparencies, working in groups and presenting to the class
II. Subject matter: Different Kinds of Context Clues
Materials Types of Context Clues graphic organizer
List of vocabulary words
Multiple transparencies of Types of Context Clues graphic organizer
Transparency markers
III. Procedure/ Activities
A. Warm Up
On the board, write two sentences that each includes an unknown vocabulary word and a context clue. Underline the unknown words.
Ask students to give predictions to the meaning of the words.
Direct Instruction
Explain that these predictions were made based on the use of context clues.
Distribute the Types of Context Clues graphic organizer to each student and place a transparency of the same graphic organizer on the overhead. Explain that there are four main types of context clues and write an example of each, modeling how to create context clues. Students copy examples on to their graphic organizers.
Practice
Place students in groups of 2-3 with varying levels of ability in each group. Assign each group a set of four different vocabulary words from a recently discussed piece of literature from their textbook.
Give each group a transparency of the Types of Context Cluesgraphic organizer and a transparency marker. Using the glossary in the textbook, groups locate the definition for each word and then create sentences on the graphic organizer. Each word should be used in a sentence and each of the four types of context clues should be attempted.
Assessment
Each group places its transparency on the overhead and reads each sentence to the class, allowing the other students to raise their hands and make predictions of the words’ definitions based on the student-generated context clues. (With each group having a list of four different words, the class will easily be able to generate definitions for an entire list of words, used in context.)
Closure
Inform students that determining the meaning of a word through a context clue is an easy way to help with comprehension. If a student is able to create context clues in his or her writing, identifying context clues in an author’s writing will be simple. This skill can be especially helpful while reading science and social studies texts.
Hints About Meanings of New Words
Teach students to figure out unfamiliar words using context clues. Cut down on questions for teacher and the use of dictionaries to find word meaning.
Students will read faster and with better comprehension when they learn how to find word meaning independently. While there will always be a need for a dictionary and help from the teacher, students will become better readers when they learn how to unlock word meaning using context clues.
Materials
- paper
- textbooks
- teacher made copies with two or three paragraphs
- pencils
Context Clues Lesson Plan Objectives
- Students identify context clues, i.e. synonyms, antonyms ,restatements, definitions, examples
- Students use context clues to find the meanings of new words
Hints About Meanings of New Words
Tell students that they are going to be word detectives. Explain that when they come to a new word in their reading the first thing they should do is decide whether they have to know the word in order to get the meaning of the paragraph. As word detectives they may not have a case. If they can understand the meaning of the story or article without knowing a certain word, it’s okay to skip over that word and keep reading.
Tell them there is a way for word detectives to find the meaning of new words by themselves. Authors sometimes give clues called context clues. Context clues are hints that help readers discover the meaning of unfamiliar words.
Different Kinds of Context Clues
Explain that context clues are words that come before or after the new word and that there are several different kinds of context clues. Write these words on the dry erase board, saying them and reviewing their meanings as you write.
- definition
- synonym
- antonym
- example
- explanation
Write these sentences on the dry erase board, underlining the unfamiliar words. Do not write the answers in parentheses.
The joey, which is a baby kangaroo, peeked out of his mother’s pocket. (definition)
The beach was covered with debris like paper and cans, and the children picked up all the trash. (synonym)
The ancient dress looked like new after she washed it. (antonym)
Every day he brought a delectable, delicious, wonderful, yummy lunch to school. (example)
My mother used to pull across the bay to catch flounder. Pull is a word that is sometimes used to mean row. (explanation)
Ask students to identify the meaning of each new word and tell which kind of context clue the author used to unlock the word’s meaning. Write the correct answers after each sentence.
Hints Around Unfamiliar Word
Give each student a copy of a worksheet with two or three paragraphs. The worksheet should have several nonsense words like gluck, silubble, and crange in place of some of the words. Place context clues before or after the nonsense words to help the students guess their meaning.
Form groups of four and tell students to work together to guess the meanings of the unfamiliar words. Tell them to work together and write the meaning of each nonsense word and the context clue that helped them. When all the groups have completed the activity, have them share their work with the class.
When readers have to stop reading to ask the teacher for word meaning or use the dictionary, the flow of reading comprehension is interrupted and sometimes lost. When students learn to skip over words that are not important and to figure out words on their own using context clues, they are better able to comprehend what they are reading.
Context Clues: Example Sentences
1. Projectiles include those items that are shot forward such as a cannon shell, bullet or rocket.
Using the example clue, the word projectiles in this sentence means
a. things put down c. things hurt
b. things shot forward d. things broken
2. The professor was a favorite among the students at the college. His sagacity was helpful to them as they pursued their degrees. The professor was known to use his experience, insight and common sense to help students pursue their education.
Using the example clue, the word sagacity in this sentence means
a. silliness c. wisdom
b. thoughtfulness d. negligence
3. Famous conquistadors include Cortes, who conquered Aztec Mexico and Pizarro, who conquered Inca Peru.
Using the example clue, the word conquistadors in this sentence means
a. geographers c. victims
b. losers d. conquerors
4. A sleuth, such as Sherlock Holmes, can be very helpful in solving crimes.
Using the example clue, the word sleuth in this sentence means
a. senior citizen c. pilot
b. man d. detective
5. Zack was a good at many sports. He exalted in swimming, running, horsemanship, fencing and target shooting. He decided to compete in the pentathlon rather than having to choose one of the events.
Using the example clue, the word pentathlon in this sentence means
a. competition with two events c. competition with ten events
b. competition with eight events d. competition with five events
Context Clues: Explanations
1. Katie appeared infallible in math class because she had never gotten a problem wrong.
Using the explanation clue, the word infallible in this sentence means
a. never wrong c. wrong
c. mistaken d. incorrect
2. The tornado annihilated the whole town to the point that nothing was left standing
Using the explanation clue, the word annihilated in this sentence means
a. destroyed c. created
b. saved d. constructed
3. We could tell by the rotten smell, that something putrid was in our trash can.
Using the explanation clue, the word putrid in this sentence means
a. ample c. rotten
b. alive d. appealing
4. Phyllis felt elated when she won the race.
Using the explanation clue, the word elated in this sentence means
a. sick c. tired
b. miserable d. happy
5. The insidious burglar was able to sneak into the house without being heard or seen.
Using the explanation clue, the word insidious in this sentence means
a. strong c. clumsy
b. loud d. sneaky
6. The voters were so upset about the outcome of the election that a skirmish broke out and the police had to break it up.
Using the explanation clue, the word skirmish in this sentence means
a. fight c. hurricane
b. sunshine d. creature
Context Clues: Synonyms
1. The book of logic contained many conundrums – mind-exercising puzzles.
Using the synonym clue, the word conundrums in this sentence means
a. pictures c. answers
b. stories d. puzzles
2. Jackie was filled with mortification, or shame, because of her careless remark.
Using the synonym clue, the word mortification in this sentence means
a. proud c. confident
b. shame d. happy
3. His rancor, or hatred, of his brother has caused him to live his life as a lonely person.
Using the synonym clue, the word rancor in this sentence means
a. love c. tolerance
b. generous d. hatred
4. The events for the conference were listed in chronological order. They began with the first event of the day and ended with the closing ceremonies in the evening.
Using the synonym clue, the word chronological in this sentence means
a. out of order c. messed up
b. broken d. in order
5. There was crazy pandemonium as people were trying to leave the rock concert.
Using the synonym clue, the word pandemonium in this sentence means
a. silence c. order
b. craziness or chaos d. peace
6. The man was sent to the penitentiary, or prison, for stealing cars.
Using the synonym clue, the word penitentiary in this sentence means
a. paradise c. prison
b. hotel d. heaven
Context Clues: Antonyms
1. Although Tom was anxious about the test, Tina was not worried at all.
Using the antonym clue, the word anxious in this sentence means
A. forgetful C. worried
B. calm D. not worried
2. Two new girls started school this week. Beth has a gregarious personality. Jenna is rather quiet.
Using the antonym clue, the word gregarious in this sentence means
A. shy C. bashful
B. timid D. outgoing
3. If you don’t conquer your fears, they will beat you.
Using the antonym clue, the word conquer in this sentence means
A. lose B. win
C. talk about D. forget
4. While Lily was careful not to be seen as she peeked out the window, Phil was not as cautious and was seen!
Using the antonym clue, the word cautious in this sentence means
A. careful B. not careful
C. risky D. trouble
5. Although the princess is familiar to those in London, she is unknown to the rest of the world.
Using the antonym clue, the word familiar in this sentence means
A. pretty C. smart
B. old D. well-known
6. Although Mary was willing to play in the snow, Jack was reluctant because he was so cold.
Using the antonym clue, the word reluctant in this sentence means
A. ready C. not willing
B. willing D. excited
Context Clues: Comparison Clues
1. The girls languidly put on their jackets as if they had no energy at all.
Using the comparison clue, the word languidly in this sentence means
A. energetically C. quickly
B. energy-less D. actively
2. The mother was determined to prove her son’s innocence; the father was resolute as well.
Using the comparison clue, the word resolute in this sentence means
A. wavering C. determined
B. not determined D. unsure
3. Some people feel perplexed by brain teasers, while others figure them out quickly.
Using the comparison clue, the word perplexed in this sentence means
A. troubled or confused C. at ease
B. calm D. relaxed
4. After being unable to get a good night’s sleep for many days, Allyson became lethargic. She didn’t have the energy to get out of bed.
Using the comparison clue, the word lethargic in this sentence means
A. active C. bubbly
B. exhausted D. lively
5. Instead of climbing into bed, she decided to take a nap on the chaise.
Using the comparison clue, the word chaise in this sentence means
A. sleeping bag C. chair
B. bed-like furniture D. floor
6. The unsubstantial story was as if she were retelling a dream.
Using the comparison clue, the word unsubstantial in this sentence means
A. realistic C. true
B. unreal
Context Clues: Contrast Clues
1. Johnny was besotted in not checking the depth of the water before he jumped in, but it was a good thing that his father was wise and checked it first.
Using the contrast clue, the word besotted in this sentence means
a. decent c. foolish
b. unaware d. incomplete
2. Brad made a cursory effort to finish his homework. This was unlike him; usually he worked hard to finish before dinner.
Using the contrast clue, the word cursory in this sentence means
a. insincere c. valid
b. genuine d. actual
3. I thought the painting of the waves crashing into the shore was very picturesque, but I thought the one next to it was quite ugly.
Using the contrast clue, the word picturesque in this sentence means
a. attractive c. colorful
b. large d. soothing
4. The omnipotent superhero always won his battles, unlike his weak opponents.
Using the contrast clue, the word omnipotent in this sentence means
a. almighty or all powerful c. powerless
b. weak
5. After being ill and unable to eat for three days, Beverly had a voracious appetite.
Using the contrast clue, the word voracious in this sentence means
a. satisfied c. small
b. quenched d. big
6. We were all pretty apathetic in the movie about animals, but we became interested when it started showing all the tricks dogs could do.
Using the contrast clue, the word apathetic in this sentence means
a. gracious c. uninterested
b. angry d. sleepy
Context Clues
1. The diamond ring was radiantly shining on her finger.
Using the synonym clue, the word radiantly in this sentence means
a. brightly c. hardly
b. really d. barely
2. We shopped at the emporium, which is as large as the shopping center, for shampoo and bath soap.
Using the comparison clue, the word emporium in this sentence means
a. amusement park c. large store
b. bathroom d. library
3. The saturated, dripping dog ran in the house after swimming in the lake.
Using the synonym clue, the word saturated in this sentence means
a. wet c. dirty
b. old d. smelly
4. In the pirate story, there were the good guys against the buccaneers.
Using the contrast clue, the word buccaneers in this sentence means
a. actors c. teachers
b. pirates d. helpers
5. An evanescent ring surrounded the moon as it rose. It was there for a moment, and then it disappeared.
Using the explanation clue, the word evanescent in this sentence means
a. full c. brief
b. ongoing d. bright
6. The sun made the lake water shimmer.
Using the explanation clue, the word shimmer in this sentence means
a. dirty c. dark
b. dull d. sparkle or shine
Context Clues
1. My younger sister can be an irritating nuisance when I am doing my homework.
In this sentence, the word nuisance means
a. help c. pleasure
b. annoyance d. delight
2. Melissa sauntered over to our table while Cheryl hurried over.
In this sentence, the word sauntered means
a. walked in a slow, easy way c. beat rapidly
b. hurried d. ran
3. We should be careful not to ostracize those who are different from us. It is much better for all if we are welcoming to everyone.
In this sentence, the word ostracize means
a. embrace c. exclude
b. welcome d. include
4. The artist was very careful and exact as he meticulously painted the portrait.
In this sentence, the word meticulously means
a. hurriedly c. precise or detailed
b. careless d. sloppy
5. The insidious burglar was able to sneak into the house without being heard or seen.
In this sentence, the word insidious means
a. sneaky c. strong
b. clumsy d. loud
6. The twins were both crying at the same time so Mom tried to soothe one while Dad tried to mollify the other.
In this sentence, the word mollify means
a. soothe c. make sad
b. worry d. upset
7. The sight of the ominous clouds told us that clear weather was far from our area.
In this sentence, the word ominous means
a. stormy or dark c. clear
b. bright d. fluffy
Context Clues
1. There were many diminutive items in the dollhouse including tiny chairs, petite beds, and little pictures.
diminutive
means:________________________________________________________
Clues:_________________________________________________________
2. The list comprise of seven rules, but talking while your mouth is open is not included.
comprise
means:_________________________________________________________
clues:__________________________________________________________
3. The United States has gained great prosperity. However, she still needs to find solutions for many poor citizens.
prosperity
means:_______________________________________________________
clues:________________________________________________________
4. The lawyer had tangible evidence, such as a hammer, a car, and keys, to show that the person stole the car.
tangible
means:_________________________________________________________
clues: __________________________________________________________
5. After Julius Caesar was assassinated, a triumvirate ruled Rome. The three men in charge were Octavian, Mark Antony, and Marcus Lepidus. It was felt that this was best for Rome because the people did not want a dictator or emperor.
triumvirate
means:___________________________________________________________
clues: ____________________________________________________________
Complete.
1. Hospitals can be inundated with emergencies on the weekends. It seems that most serious injuries happen during that time. Maybe it’s because people have more free time on the weekend, so they do things to hurt themselves. If you ever need to go to the emergency room on a Saturday night, you may want to plan on still being there on Sunday morning.
Inundated
means:______________________________________
clues: ______________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
2. Whenever we have a party, Ashley is the first person on the list. Her vivacious personality is contagious. She is so full of life; a party is always a success with her in attendance.
vivacious
means:________________________________________
clues: _________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
3. The fact that we had a campfire here last night was quite palpable. You could still see the ashes and smell the remnants of the fire. All that was missing was the heat and the sound.
palpable
means:________________________________________
clues: _________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
Write the meaning and give another word
Complete.
Although we could hear the crickets chirping, the night was serene. Camping has always been one of our family’s favorite events. We love to be outdoors enjoying nature. If you’ve never tried camping before, you should try it. You just might like it.
1. What does the word serene mean?
_________________________________________________________
2. What is another word that means the same thing as serene?
__________________________________________________________
Adam decided to try out for the talent show at school. He practiced his stand-up comedy routine for hours each evening. At the tryouts, he followed a boy whose banal jokes left the judges yawning. Adam’s hilarious routine landed him the part.
3. What does the word banal mean?
___________________________________________________________
4. What is another word that means the same thing as banal?
___________________________________________________________
My favorite room in our house is the solarium. The light can enter from all directions through the windows. It is the warmest room in our house. My dog spends a lot of time lying in there when the sun is shining.
5. What does the word solarium mean?
_____________________________________________________________
6. What is another word that means the same thing as solarium?
_____________________________________________________________
Write the meaning and give another word
Complete.
1. As I walked past several rows and back toward the aft part of the airplane, a sudden fear came over me. I sat down in my seat, but the feeling wouldn’t go away. Just seconds before the flight attendant was to close the entry door, I walked off the plane. The next day, I saw in the paper that the airplane I was on had crashed into a field in Missouri.
Write a synonym and a definition for the word aft.
Synonym: Definition:
_____________________ _____________________
2. It was dubious to us exactly what Mr. Waynewright was telling us. He would talk about the need for more computers, but then say that we had too many computers. I’m not exactly sure what we need, but I don’t think he is either.
Write a synonym and a definition for the word dubious.
Synonym: Definition:
_____________________ ______________________
3. Keith and his friend were watching a dramatic movie. In the film, the bad guy was trying to obliterate the world. Then there would be no Earth left. It was a good thing the police caught him and saved the world.
Write a synonym and a definition for the word obliterate.
Synonym: Definition:
_____________________ ______________________
4. Mom and Dad were trying to decide how to update the family room. They couldn’t agree on most things like what furniture to buy. Finally, after many discussions, they at least agreed on what hue they wanted the walls to be painted.
Write a synonym and a definition for the word hue
Synonym: Definition:
_____________________ ______________________
Write a word to complete the sentence.
1. Mom was getting ready for Sandy’s birthday party. “Please hand me the paper ____,” she said.
________________________________
2. Jack was happy his older brother was home. “Will you take me to the ____ game?” he asked.
________________________________
3. Dad picked Ali up at school. At home, he parked the car in the ____.
________________________________
4. We were looking for my brother. It was easy to find him because we could hear ____ noises coming from his room.
________________________________
5. We climbed the ____ to have a picnic. I liked eating my hot dog.
_________________________________
6. The rainbow was ____. I saw the whole thing in the sky.
__________________________________
7. Dad made up a story at bedtime. It was ____.
__________________________________
8. Joey had a hot dog at the ballgame. It was ____.
__________________________________
9. The pizza is ____. It is covered with tomato sauce and drippy cheese.
__________________________________
10. It was a gray day. It was ____ lightly.
__________________________________
For each sentence, write three words that could be used to complete the sentence.
1. My dress is ____. It is my favorite color.
______________ _____________ ______________
2. I take a nap at ____. It is the best time of day for a nap.
______________ _____________ ______________
3. The snowstorm brought a foot of snow. We are going ____.
______________ _____________ ______________
4. The cat’s fur is ____. I like the way it feels when I touch it.
______________ _____________ ______________
5. Mom and I waited a long time in the doctor’s waiting room. After a bit, we sat and read a ____.
______________ _____________ ______________
6. Bubblegum is ____. It was hard to get off of my shoe.
______________ _____________ ______________
7. I caught a ____ fish. It was heavy and almost broke my fishing pole.
______________ _____________ ______________
8. Making a snowman is ____. He will be tall with a happy face.
______________ _____________ ______________
9. I am trying a new candy for the first time. I hope it will taste ____.
______________ _____________ ______________
Write as many words as you can to complete the sentence.
1. Sally, Ray, and I played ____ until bedtime. I won two times.
__________________ _________________ __________________
__________________ _________________ __________________
__________________ _________________ __________________
2. The ____ apple is nice to touch. It’s yummy, too!
__________________ _________________ __________________
__________________ _________________ __________________
__________________ _________________ __________________
3. The bird ____ through the sky with little effort. It was beautiful to watch it fly among the clouds.
_________________ _________________ __________________
_________________ _________________ __________________
_________________ _________________ __________________
4. The crowd was ____ when the elephant at the zoo sprayed them with water. They were soaked from head to toe.
_______________ _________________ __________________
_______________ _________________ __________________
_______________ _________________ __________________
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- Conjunctions “And” “But” “Or” and “So”- English Lesson For Beginners
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Presentation Transcript
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Word Meaning and Context Clues Chapter 2
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Word Meaning Anything you read requires that you understand the meaning of words in sentences. Otherwise, written material would not make sense to you. Ultimately, the more words you know, the better you’ll be able to comprehend written information. In this section, you will practice learning word meaning through context clues. Let’s Practice!
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Now, lets choose the best response to the following sentences: • Green algae becomes dormant until rains revive them. • In this sentence, dormant means • Larger • Dead • Smaller • Inactive
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More Practice • Aerobic conditioning is low impact exercise that requires oxygen and is sustained for long periods of time. • In this sentence, aerobic means: • Hair • Skin • Light • Diabetic
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More Practice. . . Many people believe that extraterrestrial creatures exist on other planets. • In this sentence, extraterrestrial means • beyond the earth • Tall • Scary • Friendly
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Context Clues • Using context clues is the most common strategy for unlocking the meaning of words you don’t know. For example, if you chose D for question 1, you made use of the clause, “until rains revive them.” This group of words suggests that dormant is not a “dead” state, but an inactive one since the rains bring the algae back from a state of rest. In addition, the signal word, “until” tells us that dormant is the opposite of revive. Consequently, you use a contrast clue to determine meaning.
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Question 2 • In question 2, the answer should be C, light. In this example, you used a definition clue. The meaning of aerobic is explained in the phrase following ‘is,’ which becomes the signal word leading us into the definition. Low impact suggests light exercise.
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Question 3 • For question 3, the answer would be A, beyond the earth. The phrase, “exists on other planets” suggests that extraterrestrial creatures live on other planets beyond the earth.
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Therefore, context clues help us determine the meaning of words from the way they are used in a sentence. By analyzing the phrases and signal words that come before or after the underlined word, you can often figure out its meaning.
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3 Main Types of Context Clues: Context CluesSignal Words Comparison also, likewise, resembling, too, both Contrast but, however, until, yet, while Definition or Restatement is, or, that is, in other words, which Example for example, for instance, such as, dash or colon
While reading some novel or article, we sometimes come across a text or para that is quite confusing or we do not what exactly is going on.
What are Context Clues?
Context clues are basically the hints for specific content – to understand the meaning of the content that is hidden in the plain yet twisted text. Context clues can be used to explain a passage, paragraph, or individual statements.
With the help of context clues, we can essential information about the phrases or words that are used in the content. This directly or indirectly helps the reader to understand the meaning of the paragraph. Moreover, the context clues provide insights into the specific portion of the text that is generally difficult to understand. Sometimes even the title of a piece or the illustrations that come with it offers context clues, as well. These clues are really beneficial in learning the meaning of unfamiliar words in a unique way.
When You Should Use Context Clues?
We now know that context clues are very valuable tools which provide assistance in understanding the contextual writing. You can make use of context clues while reading some articles, or novels or some news clipping.
Let’s have a look at 5 different types of context clues and use them in sentences.
1. Synonym or Restatement Clues
In this type of context clue, the author is conveying the same thing twice. Initially, in a difficult way and then in a simple way. This can often happen in the same sentence itself. In case you do not understand a particular word then you just keep reading it one or more times to understand the flow of the sentence.
Sentence Example
- Miguel was very loquacious. He really loved to talk.
- The rambunctious kids ran out to the bus and climbed on board. They jumped and yelled and just couldn’t settle down.
- It was a frigid winter night; even the lake was frozen solid.
2. Antonym or Contrast Clues
In this type of context clue, the author provides the hints of the meaning of the words or paragraphs and tries to explain what it is about. Generally, the word “but” will be used in the sentence that will show the opposite thought and how it is presented.
Sentence Example:
- This painting of the landscape is picturesque, while one of the old houses is just plain ugly.
- The feral cat would not let us pet him, unlike our friendly cat.
3. Definition or Explanation Clues
This is the simplest form of context clue, where the literal meaning of the word is given to the reader but in the form of explanation. Sometimes the author will add very specific words to tell us an explanation is upcoming. These can include phrases like “which means” or “that is” or “in other words.”
Sentence Example:
- The dates are listed in chronological order; they start at the beginning and end with the last event.
- The doctor’s writing was utterly illegible; no one could read those scribbles.
4. General or Inference clues
These context clues are a bit subtle. They encourage the readers to look beyond the sentence of the content they are reading.
Sentence Example:
- Nikola Tesla was an enigmatic figure. His inventions contribute to many of the modern conveniences that we use to this day. But, he also had visions, thought that he could speak with beings on Mars, and died a pauper.
5. Punctuation or Font clues
In this type of context clues, the clues itself are hidden in the capitalization, italicization, quotation marks, and even parentheses. With these, you can understand that the clues tell the reader that the word could be a name, a book title, or even the word is being defined for us.
Sentence Example:
- Terri retained – kept – the keys to the old mansion.
- The ancient clock only rang once in a millennium (a thousand years).
we hope that this quick guide gave you a detailed overview on different types of context clues with their sentence examples.
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