1. Today’s objective: Our goal: We will use context clues to figure out the meanings of unfamiliar words while reading (3.1.6). Today, we’ll learn some things that will help us meet our goal. We’ll learn that there are 4 main ways that authors give us context clues. We’ll look at examples of each type of clue, and identify ways we can use the clues to learn new words.

2. You don’t usually need a dictionary to figure out the meanings of unknown words. You can use your schema + the author’s clues to figure it out (or make an____________________).

3. Inference (Yes, more of this…) You’ve learned to make inferences about lots of things already: Predictions Story events Characters Theme Now we’re going to make Inferences about new words.

4. Authors want you to understand their writing. You’re writers too, and you know how much you want your readers to know what you mean (otherwise, what’s the point of writing anything in the first place?). Sometimes, authors help you understand their words with clues (context clues). Let’s learn how to look for these clues!

5. Clue type #1: antonyms You know that antonyms are opposites (You do know that, don’t you? Give an example or two, please.) Authors often include antonyms or clues that something is not the same in sentences to help clarify what they mean. Let’s look at an example or two. Put on your detective hats!

6. Unlike his calm, relaxed, and quiet family, Buddy is usually garrulous. What is garrulous? Well, you know that he is UNLIKE his family. What words describe the family? Since Buddy is not like them, we know that Buddy is___________________.

7. Even though he wanted to save his money, Eric couldn’t help but squander his earnings on junk food at the fair. We know Eric wanted to save his money. The words “even though” let us know we need to look for an opposite (antonym) here. He did not save his money. What do you think the word ‘squander’ means here?

8. Clue type #2: Definitions Some authors restate the meaning of a word to help us understand it (This happens a lot in nonfiction. How helpful!). Let’s look at a couple examples.

9. Sedentary people, people who get little exercise, often become overweight. The commas in this sentence show you that the author is going to rename the word “sedentary” by giving you a definition. What is the definition of sedentary? (p.s. get some exercise.. Or else…)

10. The dromedary, commonly called a camel, stores fat in its hump. This sentence tells you exactly what a dromedary is if you’re looking for it. What is a dromedary?

11. Clue type # 3: examples or synonyms Sometimes authors will give explanations or examples to back up word meaning, and this is another kind of context clue. Let’s at an example.

12. Reann is an ideal student, she always does her work quietly, and she is very smart. What words here describe what an ‘ideal’ student is like? What does the word ‘ideal’ mean here?

13. Clue type #4: common knowledge The common knowledge clue counts on you to have schema. Here, you might not find the clues in the same sentence, but the details in surrounding sentences make sure typical readers can figure out the meanings of words.

14. Look at this example. Mrs. Kohlmeyer, Mrs. Reblitz, and Miss Stegemiller were eating lunch together during the zoo field trip. Their students were all off enjoying their day with parent chaperones, so the teachers were all by themselves. They all had on their CFA polos, and I guess this confused a few of the zoo patrons. One man asked, “Where is the monkey exhibit?” A woman stopped to ask, “What time does the next dolphin show start?” At first the three teachers were confused about why these patrons were asking them questions about the zoo, but then they realized that they were dressed the same as the zoo workers. The patrons thought the teachers were zoo workers!

15. Look for context clues as you read today. Can you figure out unfamiliar words on your own? Give it a try! If you get stuck on a word, try looking for: Antonym clues Example clues Definition clues Common knowledge clues (Don’t worry- you don’t need to know which is which- just use what you’ve learned to figure out new words.)

16. Try these! Underline the clues. I was flabbergasted when I found out I won the art contest. a. very angry b. amazed c. tired Ms. Chen admonished her students to complete their homework. a. warned b. questioned c. promised Jason was in a somber mood when he heard the bad news. a. excited b. sad c. happy

17. The man’s large hat and sunglasses concealed his face. a. revealed b. showed c. hid Eating too much junk food may be hazardous to your health. a. dangerous b. great c. delightful The boat sailed gently on the tranquil lake. a. upset b. calm c. stormy Billy descended the stairs into his basement. a. crossed b. walked up c. walked down