Context Clues It is common to encounter words we do not understand while reading. Looking up words we do not know interrupts the flow of reading. Good readers try to figure out the meaning of difficult words by looking at the sentences and words surrounding the unfamiliar word.

There are several types of context clues: Compare/Synonym Definitions/Descriptions Example Contrast/Antonym Logic Latin and Greek Word Parts Grammar Clues from Words in a Series

Context Clues Compare Sometimes an author will compare two things in a sentence that have a similarity. That similarity helps you understand the meaning of the unfamiliar word. Ex. The toddler gnashed at his food like a tiger ripping at its prey. ( bites with grinding teeth )

Sometimes an author will compare two things that are similar in a sentence and actually give you a synonym (word that means the same) for your unfamiliar word. Ex. Only today I wish I didn’t have just eleven years rattling inside me like pennies jangling in a tin Band-Aid box.

Context Clues Definitions/Descriptions Often a sentence will contain the exact definition of the unfamiliar word or will describe a word. Ex. of description: I did not want to wear the raggedy sweater because the elbows of the sleeves had worn out.

Context Clues Definitions/Descriptions Ex. of description: Mr. Jones is a recluse. He lives alone on the edge of town and he never comes out of his house except to go to work. Ex. of description: The day was dismal. The sky was gloomy and the rain made it miserable and damp, so all the students were sleepy. Ex. of definition: The students waited for the busses patiently, calmly without complaining.

Context Clues Example Often, a sentence will provide examples and details which help you see and understand an unfamiliar word, even if you don’t know the exact definition. Ex. The student showed he was sympathetic when the teacher fell over his backpack by helping her up and telling her how sorry he was that she got hurt. ( caring )

Context Clues Contrast Antonym Sometimes an unfamiliar word is used in contrast to a word that you DO know or that is explained in the sentence. Ex. Unlike Professor Dixon, who is extremely nervous, Professor Benton is very placid. (calm)

Context Clues Logic Your knowledge about the world or about a particular situation can help you understand an unfamiliar word. Ex. In my head I’m thinking how long till lunch time, how long till I can take the red sweater…and toss it in the dark, narrow alley between the buildings. Ex. The babysitter put a pacifier in the baby’s mouth and little Jimmy stopped crying. Ex. On a computer, you can change a word simply by moving the cursor to the place where you want to make the change.

Context Clues Latin and Greek Word Parts You can decode a difficult vocabulary word by pulling the word apart to see if you find any familiar words inside. Also, look for prefixes, roots and suffixes that you know. Ex. I am so embarrassed because the whole class is looking at me. I wish I was invisible.

Context Clues Grammar When you know the part of speech of an unfamiliar word, you know a lot about that word. Ex. Let the rain beat your head with silver liquid drops. (strike) Ex. The students waited for the busses patiently, calmly without complaining. (peacefully)

Context Clues Clues from Words in a Series When you come across an unfamiliar word in a series of words, the other words in the series give you a clue about the unfamiliar word. Ex. Spring brings sparrow, finches, robins, and magpies to our yard. (crows)