Context Clues

No matter where you go, the Internet is following you. Almost every portable device is being made with an Internet

connection. Most new TVs and many other appliances come with Internet connections as well. The Internet is truly

ubiquitous.

If something is ubiquitous, __________.

• a. it is fuzzy and will bite you

• b. it is everywhere

• c. it costs too much money

• d. it causes rashes

Speaking rudely to the judges was rash behavior. You really hurt your chances of winning!

In the above context, what does “rash” mean?

• a. an itchy skin condition

• b. funny

• c. trying to hide or disguise a piece of cheese

• d. with little thought or consideration

Some people are always bashing the president just like others bashed the one before him. Wouldn't you think that

everyone could find something to praise him for, at least once in a while?

What does “bashing” mean in the above selection?

• a. hitting hard with a heavy tool

• b. going to too many expensive parties

• c. speaking or writing harshly about

• d. voting for a different candidate

Wherever he goes, the esteemed Dr. Sanchez is applauded for his life saving research.

What does “esteemed” mean?

• a. held over boiling water

• b. very old

• c. unable to chew gum

• d. greatly admired

I believe that if you lower taxes so that people can keep more of the money they earn, it will be an incentive for them to work harder.

What is the meaning of “incentive”? __________.

• a. a reason to do something

• b. a small amount of money

• c. a tax

• d. a good job

Most of America's Founding Fathers did not believe in women's suffrage. Only men could vote in the United states

until 1920.

What is “suffrage” ?

• a. something that causes physical pain

• b. an early flag

• c. skirts that did not cover ankles

• d. the right to vote

In the early 1600s, a dangerous trip across the Atlantic Ocean was a daunting idea. The Europeans, who would

someday be known as the Pilgrims, must have been a very determined and brave group of settlers.

A daunting task is one that would _______ someone.

• a. tickle

• b. amuse

• c. lose or misplace

• d. frighten or intimidate

Christmas is a time when Dad reverts to his childhood. I really think he looks forward to Santa’s visit more than any

other member of the family. Mom says that he’ll always be a child during this season.

What does “reverts” mean in the above passage?

• a. stands up straight

• b. peeks at presents

• c. drinks too much egg nog

• d. goes back to being what he was

Fortunately, the explosion diverted the asteroid from a course that would have sent it hurdling into our planet.

To divert is to _______.

• a. change the direction of

• b. look for really high waves

• c. jump into a dry river

• d. look through a telescope

The United States has a vast amount of newly discovered clean geothermal (natural heat from the Earth’s crust) energy.

Tapping into this energy source could provide at least 10 times the energy that can be obtained from the nation’s known coal reserves.

What does “vast” mean?

• a. a large amount

• b. not enough

• c. dangerous

• d. having no known use