Identifying words in context The Giver, Chapter 10

Context clues 1. Definition 2. Synonym (or restatement) We use context clues to define words we don’t know. There are 4 types of context clues: 1. Definition 2. Synonym (or restatement) 3. Antonym (or contrast) 4. Inference

definition The word is defined directly and clearly in the sentence in which it appears. “The arbitrator, the neutral person chosen to settle the dispute, arrived at her decision.”

synonym Other words are used in the sentence with similar meanings. The slender woman was so thin her clothes were too big on her.

antonym Often signaled by the words whereas, unlike, or as opposed to. “Unlike Jamaal’s room, which was immaculate, Jeffrey’s room was very messy.” “Whereas Melissa is quite lithe, her sister is clumsy and awkward.”

inference Word meanings are not directly described, but need to be inferred from the context. “Walt’s pugnacious behavior made his opponent back down.” “The man gigged the large fish, but he needed his friend to enlarge the hole to drag it out of the frigid water.”

Model: Define me! “Well, it was clear to me—and my parents later confessed that it had been obvious to them, too—what my aptitude was. I had always loved newchildren more than anything.” What does aptitude mean? How did you know? Which type of context clue did you use?

Guided: Define me! “The simple logistic instructions—where to go, and when— were expected.” What does logistic mean? How do you know? Which type of context clue did you use?

Partner “Reading it again, however, he realized that it didn’t compel him to be rude; it simply allowed him the option.” What does compel mean? How do you know? Which type of context clue did you use?

Independent “Almost instantly the excruciating pain in his hand had diminished to the throb which was, now, all he could recall of the experience.” What does excruciating mean? How do you know? Which type of context clue did you use?

Read Chapter 10

As you read, fill in your chart Rewrite a sentence from the book with that contains a word you don’t know. Underline that word. Sentence What you think the word means? Definition What type of context clue did you use? Type of Context Clue

Post-reading reflection In chapter 10, we are given insight into the concept of Jonas being named The Receiver. Why is Jonas’ title The Receiver? Answer this question in a well-developed paragraph, citing evidence from the text to support your claim. What new information do we learn about the setting through Jonas’ conversation with the Receiver? Answer this question in a well-developed paragraph, citing evidence from the text to support your claim.

Exit slip Define the underlined word below. Make sure to use a definition that is appropriate in the context of the sentence. “ ‘What are you going to do, sir?’ he asked, hoping his voice didn’t betray his nervousness.” (Lowry 100). In this sentence, betray means… Hurt Give away Hide Why do you think so?