Use Context Clues for Meaning
How to use: Download the PDF to print the worksheet. Then use this page to repeat activities and check answers.
Learning Objectives
- 1Identify context clues in a sentence to work out the meaning of an unknown word
- 2Use surrounding words and phrases to choose the best word to fill a gap
- 3Explain how context clues help readers understand unfamiliar vocabulary
Mini Lesson
When you meet a word you do not know, you do not need to stop reading. Look at the other words in the sentence — they are your context clues. Context clues are hints that help you figure out what an unfamiliar word means.
Types of Context Clues
- Definition clue — the sentence explains the word directly. "A herbivore, an animal that eats only plants, was grazing in the field."
- Example clue — the sentence gives examples. "Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, and limes, are high in vitamin C."
- Contrast clue — the sentence shows the opposite. "Unlike her timid sister, Maya was bold and spoke in front of the whole class."
- Inference clue — you use what you know to make a reasonable guess. "After the long hike, the children were famished and ate every last bite."
Steps to Use Context Clues
- Read the whole sentence (or the sentences before and after).
- Find any words or phrases that give hints about the unknown word.
- Decide which meaning makes the sentence make sense.
- Replace the unknown word with your guess and reread to check.
Look beyond the sentence — the paragraph around an unknown word often holds the best clues.
Guided Practice
Read the story. Use context clues to understand the underlined words.
The Lost Parrot
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Cover
Exercises
Each card shows a sentence with a blank. Tap the card to reveal which word fits — and why. Use the context clues in the sentence!
1 / 8
The dog was very ___ after the long walk. He could barely keep his eyes open.
(tap for example)
Pick the best answer.
What is a context clue?
"A carnivore, an animal that eats only meat, prowled the forest." What type of context clue is used here?
"Unlike her energetic brother, Lily was lethargic and spent the day on the sofa." What does lethargic mean?
Which is the best first step when you meet an unknown word?
"Citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, and oranges, are rich in vitamin C." The underlined clue type is:
How do you check whether your guess for an unknown word is correct?
"After the enormous meal, the guests were satiated and did not want dessert." What does satiated mean?
Which sentence uses a contrast clue?
Why are context clues useful for readers?
"The explorer was dauntless; even in the face of danger, she showed no fear." What does dauntless mean?