OBJECTIVE #1 Word Meaning

1. Unfamiliar words and phrases 2. Figurative language Vocabulary questions are presented in 2 ways:

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE READING AND RUN INTO A WORD YOU DON’T KNOW? Unfamiliar words and phrases

Before you go to a dictionary, use one or both of the following strategies:  Context clues  Word Structure

Context Clues Can you tell what this is? Without context, this picture has little meaning, but when you look around it, it is easier to understand Just like words…they may be unfamiliar until we look before and after the word for clues

Now you see the whole picture, and the smaller parts make sense

Remember to check all of your word meaning answers….  By replacing the unfamiliar word with a “prediction” word to see if it fits or makes sense. “Try it on”  Example: He acted like a buffoon at the party by telling jokes and laughing too loudly and too often. (prediction word: fool)

Word Structure  Use word structure, that is study the unfamiliar word’s prefix, suffix, or root word and use the meanings to figure out the definition of the word. Example: I’m tired of his infantile behavior. When will he ever grow up? (note the word infant within the word)

Use your language skills. Are you bilingual?  By using your knowledge of the Spanish language and recognizing Latin root words, you are at an advantage Example: He’s looking very pensive. I wonder what he’s up to? (Pensive, as in pensativo) Example: I have a serious dilemma. What should I do? (dilemma, as in dilema)

 Context Clues….look around the mystery word  Word Structure….look inside the mystery word

FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE Watch out! The author says one thing but means another! He’s as stubborn as a mule. She’s going to kill me if she finds out. Money talks. This backpack weighs a ton We walked forever.We walked forever. I’m starvingI’m starving

Example 1. In the selection, the writer uses the phrase the round-cheeked maiden to refer to: A.a cloud B.the wind C.a young woman D.the sun

THEA Example 1. In the selection, the writer uses the phrase the round- cheeked maiden to refer to: A. a cloud B. the wind C. a young woman D. the sun The fiery ball sank lower and lower in the sky. For a moment, it was a strange, round cheeked maiden with brilliant curly locks blowing out behind her in the wind. She floated, suspended above the rippled carpet of clouds, then silently slipped from sight. Always plug your choice into the paragraph to make sure in makes sense.