Using Context clues to figure out the meaning of words
She devised a plan to get out of class.
What does the word devised mean?
created
“When the teacher announced extra recess, the class was on cloud nine.”
What does on cloud nine mean?
extremely happy
Elena walked slowly into the kitchen, hiding a broken vase behind her back. When she heard her father’s footsteps, she looked down at the floor. What can you infer about Elena?
She is worried she will get in trouble
“Schools should require students to wear uniforms because it helps reduce distractions and bullying.” What is the author’s position?
School uniforms are helpful and should be required
Lena practiced the piano every day, even when she was tired. At the school concert, she played her song perfectly and felt proud. What is the theme?
Practice leads to success; practice makes perfect
On the trip to Arlington that morning, Susan listened to her family's excited chatter about the trip.
What does the word chatter mean?
discussion; talking
“Jordan spilled juice on his project and felt like he was in hot water.”
What does in hot water mean?
in trouble
The classroom was unusually quiet. Students avoided eye contact as the teacher entered holding a stack of graded tests. What can you infer?
The students were nervous.
“Recycling is one of the easiest ways people can help protect the environment.” What is the author’s position?
Recycling helps protect the environment
Ben was nervous about moving to a new school, but he smiled, introduced himself, and made new friends quickly. What is the theme?
Change can be difficult but keeping a positive attitude can be rewarding
Jenna gave a reluctant answer because she was unsure about speaking in front of the class.
What does reluctant mean?
unsure; unwilling
“Tyrese wanted to improve his math grade, so he decided to hit the books all weekend.”
Study
The lights flickered, and the wind howled outside. Sarah lit a candle and pulled a blanket around her shoulders. What can you infer?
There is likely a storm and the power is out.
“Fast food should be eaten only occasionally because it is not healthy for daily meals.” What is the author’s position?
Fast food should be eaten in moderation
Carlos forgot his homework but told the truth to his teacher instead of making excuses. His teacher appreciated his honesty. What is the theme?
Honesty is the best policy
After the argument, Maya tried to reconcile with her friend by apologizing sincerely.
What does reconcile mean?
make up; make peace
“During the test, Marcus kept his cool even when the questions became difficult.” What does kept his cool mean?
stayed calm
Jamal walked into the house and quietly closed the door behind him. He didn’t turn on the lights or call out for anyone. His backpack dropped to the floor with a heavy thud. He sat down on the stairs and stared at his shoes. What can you infer?
He was upset or disappointed.
The author states: “Students should not be allowed to use phones in class because it causes distractions.” What is the author’s position?
Phones should not be used in class
During the race, Alex fell down. He got back up and finished the race even though he didn’t win. What is the theme?
Perseverance matters more than winning
The abandoned house looked dilapidated, with broken windows and a collapsing roof.
What does dilapidated mean?
falling apart
When the coach saw the team give up, he told them to pull their weight.
What does pull their weight mean?
Do their part; do their fair share
Maya stared at her phone as it buzzed again. She flipped it face down and walked away without answering. Her friends had been texting her all afternoon.
She is avoiding someone or upset with someone
“Animals should not be kept in small cages at zoos because it is unfair to them.” What is the author’s position?
Animals should have larger living spaces
A small turtle kept moving slowly across a busy road while other animals rushed past. Eventually, it reached the safe side. What is the theme?
Persistence leads to success