Context Clues
“The desert was arid, with not a drop of water in sight.”
What does arid mean?
Very dry
“He runs as fast as a cheetah.”
What type of figurative language?
Simile
Which word has a more positive connotation?
A. Skinny
B. Slim
Slim
“She skipped into the bright, sunny room.”
Tone?
Happy
“The kitten was timid, hiding behind the couch when guests arrived.”
What does timid mean?
Shy or scared
“The classroom was a zoo.”
What type of figurative language?
Metaphor
Which word sounds more negative?
A. Childlike
B. Childish
Childish
“He crept through the dark hallway.”
Tone?
Suspenseful or scary
“The crowd was jubilant after the team’s victory.”
What does jubilant mean?
Very happy or joyful
“The wind whispered through the trees.”
What type of figurative language?
Personification
Word: “cheap” vs “thrifty”
Which is more positive and why?
Thrifty—suggests being smart with money
“The teacher slammed the book on the desk.”
Tone?
Angry
“The old house was dilapidated, with broken windows and peeling paint.”
Meaning of dilapidated?
Run-down or in bad condition
“I’ve told you a million times!”
What type of figurative language?
Hyperbole
“The old man smiled gently as he told stories.”
Tone?
Warm or nostalgic
“The speech was compelling, convincing many people to change their minds.”
Meaning of compelling?
Persuasive or powerful
“The test was a piece of cake.”
What is the meaning?
Very easy
“The wind howled as shadows stretched across the empty street.”
Tone?
Mysterious or eerie