Building Vocabulary Using Context Clues What is Context

Building Vocabulary: Using Context Clues

What is Context? Example: Tony noticed that the wallabies at the zoo looked like kangaroos. Example: Many people have phobias, such as fear of heights, a fear of water, or a fear of confined spaces.

Types of Context Clues 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Definition Clues Synonym Clues Example Clues Contrast Clues Inference Clues

Definition Clues • Writers define a word right after they use it. • They use words and phrases such as: ▪ ▪ means is refers to are called

Example of Definition Clues Corona refers to the outermost part of the sun’s atmosphere.

Synonym Clues • Synonyms or brief phrases can also define the word or that is similar to the new word. • Synonyms can be found – BEFORE – Same Sentence – AFTER

Example #2 of Synonym Clues Betsy took a break from teaching to serve in the Peace Core. Despite the hiatus, Betsy’s school was delighted to rehire her when she returned.

Example Clues • Examples also help explain a word. • Examples can be introduced with words such as: – like – such as – for example – including.

Example of Example Clues In the past month, we have had almost every type of precipitation, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

Contrast Clues (antonyms) • Look for an antonym — a word or phrase that has the opposite meaning. • Examples can be introduced with words such as • but, • though, • whereas

Example of Contrast Clues Although Liz felt sad and depressed, most of the graduates were elated.

Inference Clues • Inference is used to figure out the meaning of an unknown word by using logic and reasoning skills.

Example of Inference Clues On hot, humid summer afternoons, I often feel languid.

Try this one! The quarterback sustained numerous injuries: a fractured wrist, two broken ribs, and a hip injury. • • • Definition Clue? Synonym Clue? Example Clue? Contrast Clue? Inference Clue?

Try this one! The quarterback sustained numerous injuries: a fractured wrist, two broken ribs, and a hip injury. We can tell that the football player had many injuries since the author lists them. Another way to say this is “experienced” numerous injuries.

So, remember…the first thing you should do when you don’t know a word is to look at the words around it for clues to unlock the meaning!!