Context Clues
What are context clues?
Words or phrases around an unknown word that help you
What is mood in literature?
The feeling or atmosphere the reader experience
What is tone?
The author’s attitude toward the subject or audience.
Q: Which sentence is in active voice?
A) The test was taken by the students.
B) The students took the test.
B) The students took the test.
What type of context clue shows a comparison or contrast?
Antonym clue (using words like but, unlike, or however).
Identify the context clue: “The arid desert was so dry that not even cactus could survive.”
The phrase “so dry” helps define arid.
What mood does this create? “The dark alley was silent except for the distant sound of footsteps.”
Suspenseful or eerie
Identify the tone:
“I can’t believe we have another pop quiz—this is the best day ever!”
Sarcastic
Which sentence is passive?
A) The teacher graded the essays.
B) The essays were graded by the teacher.
B) The essays were graded by the teacher.
Q: Which sentence has a negative tone?
“The waiter slammed the plate down and walked away without a word.”
Rude or irritated tone
What kind of context clue is used here? “Reptiles are cold-blooded, which means their body temperature changes with the environment.”
A: Definition clue
Which words best create a cheerful mood?
Bright, sunny, laughter, joyful
How can punctuation affect tone?
Exclamation points, ellipses, and question marks can show emotion or attitude.
What is the difference between active and passive voice?
In active voice, the subject does the action; in passive voice, the subject receives the action.
Q: What mood does this passage create?
“The children’s laughter echoed as fireworks lit the sky.”
Joyful or celebratory mood
Q: What does reluctant mean in this sentence?
“She was reluctant to get on stage, her hands shaking as she stepped forward.”
A: Unwilling or hesitant
What mood is created by this description?
“The rain fell softly as she smiled, remembering the warm days of summer.”
Nostalgic or peaceful
What tone word best fits this sentence?
“The coach’s speech inspired the players to never give up.”
Encouraging or motivational
Change this to active voice: “The ball was thrown by James.”
James threw the ball.
Q: Rewrite in passive voice:
“The cat chased the mouse.”
The mouse was chased by the cat.
Q: Choose the best meaning of benevolent:
“The benevolent teacher donated her own money to buy supplies for students.”
Kind or generous
How can an author create mood?
Through imagery, setting, word choice, and tone.
What’s the difference between tone and mood?
Tone is the author’s attitude; mood is how the reader feels.
Why is active voice preferred in writing?
A: It’s clearer, stronger, and more direct.
Why should writers be aware of tone and mood in their writing?
To influence how readers interpret and feel about the message.