Transcript Context Clues ppt

Using Context Clues
Context Clues
When you use clues in a text to figure out the
meaning of a new word.
Types of Signals
Writers often help readers with new or
unfamiliar words by giving clues through
the use of:
• punctuation marks
• special “signal” words
or
• whole sentences which form a “context”
that can define words.
Punctuation Marks
Commas, dashes, and
parentheses are
sometimes followed
by a synonym (a word
that has the same
meaning), a short
definition, an example,
or a restatement of the
word to help the
reader.
Commas, Dashes, and
Parentheses
Examples:
•Neve, glacial snow, is common in Antarctica.
•Advertisers often take a poll---interview
people---about a new product.
•The maestro (conductor) of the St. Louis
Orchestra entered the concert hall.
Signal Words
These words signal a definition, example, or
synonym : or, such as, for example,
especially, like, that is, and in other words.
Signal Words
Examples:
In New Orleans, people drink a strong coffee
served in demitasse or half size cups.
Pearls are found in mollusks like oysters.
Context of the Text
Sometimes the reader must play detective,
putting together clues from the surrounding
sentences and making an intelligent “guess”
as to the definition of a word.
Context of the Text
Example: The children were so fatigued
from their all day hike that they could
hardly eat their dinner. They dragged their
bodies to the dinner table and almost fell
asleep in their plates!
Practice
• On a sheet of paper use context
clues to determine the meaning of
the following words.
1. The sick man drank the elixir (medication) and
almost instantly became better!
2. Mom drained the spaghetti in the colander or
strainer before adding the sauce.
3. Some crustaceans, such as shrimp and lobsters,
can be eaten.
4. The judge’s verdict---decision--was anxiously
awaited by everyone in the courtroom.
5. The new annex to the school
housed a swimming pool and an
immense gym.
6. The orator walked onto the stage,
placed his notes on the podium,
and adjusted the microphone as he
looked at the audience.
7. Sam did such a laudable job of
fixing his father’s car that his
uncle hired him as a full time
mechanic at his garage this
summer!
Answers
1. Medicine or medication; clues are the
parentheses ( ) around the synonym.
2. Strainer; clue is the word or before a
synonym.
3. Sea creature with a hard exoskeleton; Clues are the words
such as followed by examples.
Answers continued
4. Decision or judgement; clues are the
dashes before and after the synonym.
5. An addition to a building; clues are the
words new, and housed.
6. Speaker; clues are the words stage,
podium, microphone, and audience.
7. Admirable; clues are hired, full time mechanic, and
fixing.