CONTEXTUAL CLUES

What are contextual clues?

• Words that help you understand the meaning of an unfamiliar word

• A type of grammar rule

• A part of speech

• A dictionary definition

What type of contextual clue is used in this sentence?

"Photosynthesis, the process by which plants make food using sunlight, is essential for life on Earth."

• Synonym

• Antonym

• Definition

• Example

What does the word “gargantuan” mean in this sentence?

“The elephant was gargantuan compared to the tiny mouse standing next to it.”

• Slow

• Medium-sized

• Gigantic

• Slow

Your cousin claimed to be late because the doors of his house were frozen shut. Even though I have my doubts, his explanation is plausible. It got really cold last night. I'll just have to take his word for it. If a statement is plausible, _______.

• you must always believe it

• it's hard to understand because it makes no sense

• you should never believe it

• it's believable enough to possibly be true

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 large amount

• Dangerous

• Having no known use

• Not enough

What type of contextual clue is used in this sentence?

“Tom was lethargic after staying up all night. He had no energy to get out of bed.”

• Synonym

• Example

• Definition

• Antonym

What does the word "anxious" mean in this sentence?

“Lena felt anxious before her big exam. Her hands were shaking, and she couldn’t stop worrying.”

• Confident

• Nervous

• Sleepy

• Bored

Put this medicine on your arm and rub it into your skin until it's invisible. It will inhibit the infection's attempt to spread.

What does “inhibit” mean?

• Live in certain place

• Block or slow down

• Help to do something important

• Itch or burn

What does the word “fragile” mean in this sentence?

“Be careful with that glass vase! It’s fragile, so it might break easily.”

• Heavy

• Weak

• Easily broken

• Strong

What type of contextual clue is used in this sentence?

“Unlike his rude and impolite brother, Jake is always polite and respectful.”

• Synonym

• Antonym

• Definition

• Example