Context Clues
What is a synonym clue?
A clue where a word with a similar meaning is used in the sentence.
What is the main idea of a paragraph?
The most important point the author is trying to make.
What is a simile?
A comparison using “like” or “as”
Name one type of text structure.
Cause/Effect, Compare/Contrast, Sequence, etc.
What does it mean to "summarize" a text?
Give a brief statement of the main points.
“She felt melancholy after the movie.” What does "melancholy" mean?
Sad or depressed
True or False: Supporting details explain or prove the main idea.
True
“He was a rock during the crisis.” What figure of speech is this?
Metaphor
What structure? “First, we mix the batter. Then we bake it.”
Sequence
What’s the difference between a prediction and an inference?
Prediction: future guess. Inference: based on clues and what you know.
“He was so famished, he could eat a horse.” What does “famished” mean?
Extremely hungry
Choose the correct main idea:
“Birds migrate south in winter, fly in groups, and follow patterns.”
Birds have specific migration behaviors.
Identify the alliteration:
“Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.”
Repetition of the ‘p’ sound
“Dogs and cats are different in many ways.” What’s the structure?
Compare and contrast
What is “visualizing” while reading?
Creating mental pictures
Find the context clue: “The novice driver, or beginner, made many mistakes.”
"Or beginner" is the clue.
What is the main idea of this paragraph?
Many students prefer listening to music while they study. Some say it helps them concentrate, while others feel it blocks out distractions. Teachers have mixed opinions, but some agree that soft instrumental music may help certain learners. Still, it depends on the individual and the task.
Some students find music helpful while studying, but it depends on the individual.
What does “the wind howled” mean?
Personification – giving wind human qualities
Name 2 signal words for cause and effect.
Because, therefore, due to
Why is asking questions important while reading?
It helps improve comprehension and engagement.
Create your own sentence using a context clue to show the word "reluctant."
(Accept reasonable responses that show hesitation or unwillingness.)
What are “Supporting details”?
These types of details support the main idea by giving examples, facts, or explanations.
Make your own metaphor for being tired.
"I was a sloth after running a marathon — in slow motion and full regret."
What text structure does this passage use?
How Plants Grow
Plants need sunlight, water, and nutrients to grow. First, they absorb water through their roots. Then, they use sunlight to make food in a process called photosynthesis. Finally, nutrients from the soil help the plant develop strong stems and leaves.
Sequence (or chronological order) — the passage describes the steps plants follow to grow.
Explain how you would monitor your understanding while reading a hard text.
Re-read, ask questions, summarize, use context clues