Free Printable Context Clues

1.

1. As it neared lunch time, the strong smell of pizza drifted down the hallway, quickly making our class hungry. This was probably due to the fact that out classroom was adjacent to the cafeteria; we were always the first ones in line for lunch.

What is the meaning of the word adjacent in the paragraph?

a)

assistant

b)

next to

c)

far from

d)

inside

2.

1. As it neared lunch time, the strong smell of pizza drifted down the hallway, quickly making our class hungry. This was probably due to the fact that out classroom was adjacent to the cafeteria; we were always the first ones in line for lunch.

Which words from the paragraph help the reader understand the meaning of adjacent?

a)

as it neared lunchtime

b)

the first ones in line for lunch

c)

probably due to the fact

d)

to the cafeteria

3.

The weather forecaster announced that snow could start falling at any moment. I ran to the window as fast as a rabbit running from a fox. I stared out the window, longingly, as white powder accumulated on the cold, hard ground. After a few minutes, the grass was no longer visible, now covered with snow.

What is the meaning of the word accumulated in the paragraph?

a)

melted

b)

moved quickly

c)

exactly

d)

built up

4.

The weather forecaster announced that snow could start falling at any moment. I ran to the window as fast as a rabbit running from a fox. I stared out the window, longingly, as white powder accumulated on the cold, hard ground. After a few minutes, the grass was no longer visible, now covered with snow.

Which words from the paragraph help the reader understand the meaning of accumulated?

a)

covered with snow

b)

cold, hard ground

c)

as fast as a rabbit running from a fox

d)

longingly

5.

As someone who is frequently the new kid in a school, I have learned to adapt to new situations quickly. Sometimes it’s hard to adjust to new classrooms, teachers, and middle-school social orders, but I’ve gotten really proficient at it over the years. After a few weeks, no one even remembers that I’m the new kid.

What is the meaning of the word adapt in the paragraph?

a)

get used to

b)

skillful

c)

make something one’s own

d)

to be scared of

6.

As someone who is frequently the new kid in a school, I have learned to adapt to new situations quickly. Sometimes it’s hard to adjust to new classrooms, teachers, and middle-school social orders, but I’ve gotten really proficient at it over the years. After a few weeks, no one even remembers that I’m the new kid.

Which words from the paragraph help the reader understand the meaning of adapt?

a)

gotten really proficient

b)

middle-school social orders

c)

adjust

d)

no one even remembers

7.

People who work with statistics, or statisticians, often have to analyze large sets of data, looking closely for trends among numbers. Using mathematical techniques, they interpret patterns that explain the world around them. This can help them solve problems in many real world fields like business or government.

What is the meaning of the word analyze in the paragraph?

a)

come up with

b)

add to

c)

do something at the same time

d)

examine

8.

People who work with statistics, or statisticians, often have to analyze large sets of data, looking closely for trends among numbers. Using mathematical techniques, they interpret patterns that explain the world around them. This can help them solve problems in many real world fields like business or government.

Which words from the paragraph help the reader understand the meaning of analyze?

a)

looking closely

b)

large sets

c)

real-world fields

d)

people who work with

9.

Addie thought she had prepared herself for the math test; she had studied all week. She expected a high grade on the exam. But she couldn’t anticipate what her teacher would ask for the last question; who would have predicted that Mr. Butler would ask them to add together the number of words in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution?

What is the meaning of the word anticipate in the paragraph?

a)

be against something

b)

misunderstand

c)

be aware of

d)

look forward to

10.

Addie thought she had prepared herself for the math test; she had studied all week. She expected a high grade on the exam. But she couldn’t anticipate what her teacher would ask for the last question; who would have predicted that Mr. Butler would ask them to add together the number of words in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution?

Which words from the paragraph help the reader understand the meaning of anticipate?

a)

a high grade

b)

for the last question

c)

add together

d)

predicted

11.

The class sat nervously as our teacher paced in front of us, obviously angry. Finally, after a few minutes of silence, she spoke. “To say that I am disappointed is an understatement,” she fumed. “Though I know that some of you maintained your correct, appropriate behavior for the substitute, the majority of you chose to forget the classroom rules.”

What is the meaning of the word appropriate in the paragraph?

a)

upset

b)

proper

c)

valuable

d)

shocking

12.

The class sat nervously as our teacher paced in front of us, obviously angry. Finally, after a few minutes of silence, she spoke. “To say that I am disappointed is an understatement,” she fumed. “Though I know that some of you maintained your correct, appropriate behavior for the substitute, the majority of you chose to forget the classroom rules.”

Which words from the paragraph help the reader understand the meaning of appropriate?

a)

correct

b)

understatement

c)

dissapointed

d)

the majority of you

13.

I think that all students would benefit from having recess every day. There are many advantages, such as focusing on class work better, fewer kids running in the hallway, and improved behavior overall. Plus, who doesn’t love going outside for some fresh air?

What is the meaning of the word benefit in the paragraph?

a)

gain

b)

fundraiser

c)

be damaged

d)

love

14.

I think that all students would benefit from having recess every day. There are many advantages, such as focusing on class work better, fewer kids running in the hallway, and improved behavior overall. Plus, who doesn’t love going outside for some fresh air?

Which words from the paragraph help the reader understand the meaning of benefit?

a)

every day

b)

some fresh air

c)

many advatages

d)

running in the hallway

15.

The D.J. hadn’t shown up yet. There were several leaks in the cafeteria ceiling letting in constant drops of rainwater. The decorations kept falling off of the walls. The dance was supposed to start in 20 minutes. Alexis, the head of the dance planning committee, was almost in tears. “This night is a mess,” she thought to herself. “It’s an absolute catastrophe!”

What is the meaning of the word catastrophe in the paragraph?

a)

celebration

b)

event that causes change

c)

disaster

d)

funny story

16.

The D.J. hadn’t shown up yet. There were several leaks in the cafeteria ceiling letting in constant drops of rainwater. The decorations kept falling off of the walls. The dance was supposed to start in 20 minutes. Alexis, the head of the dance planning committee, was almost in tears. “This night is a mess,” she thought to herself. “It’s an absolute catastrophe!”

Which words from the paragraph help the reader understand the meaning of catastrophe?

a)

almost in tears

b)

is a mess

c)

thought to herself

d)

supposed to start in 20 minutes

17.

The mayor had gathered all of the townspeople of Mayberry into the town square. “Citizens of this great city,” she began, “we have a serious problem that we need to address as a town.” A murmur went through the crowd. Everyone knew what she was talking about; raccoons had taken over city hall.

What is the meaning of the word citizens in the paragraph?

a)

strangers

b)

wild animals

c)

buildings

d)

inhabitants

18.

The mayor had gathered all of the townspeople of Mayberry into the town square. “Citizens of this great city,” she began, “we have a serious problem that we need to address as a town.” A murmur went through the crowd. Everyone knew what she was talking about; raccoons had taken over city hall.

Which words from the paragraph help the reader understand the meaning of citizens?

a)

we have a serious problem

b)

a murmur went through the crowd

c)

townspeople of Mayberry

d)

racoons had taken over

19.

As I slowly, carefully descended the steep, treacherous mountain, the anxiety that had been hanging over me like a dark cloud slowly began to disintegrate. I had been lost in the wilderness for almost a week with little food to eat and only small, half-frozen streams from which to drink. With every step I took, I was getting closer and closer to civilization. I would soon be in the town I had spotted from the mountain’s peak, able to sleep in a real bed and eat something other than trail mix and beef jerky.

What is the meaning of the word civilization in the paragraph?

a)

disaster

b)

comfort of modern life

c)

politeness

d)

a destination

20.

As I slowly, carefully descended the steep, treacherous mountain, the anxiety that had been hanging over me like a dark cloud slowly began to disintegrate. I had been lost in the wilderness for almost a week with little food to eat and only small, half-frozen streams from which to drink. With every step I took, I was getting closer and closer to civilization. I would soon be in the town I had spotted from the mountain’s peak, able to sleep in a real bed and eat something other than trail mix and beef jerky.

Which words from the paragraph help the reader understand the meaning of civilization?

a)

able to sleep in a real bed

b)

closer and closer

c)

half-frozen streams

d)

•with every step I took

21.

Comparing something opposite is using what type of clues?

a)

Antonyms

b)

Synonyms

c)

Examples

d)

Definitions

22.

What type of context clues use similar words to help with the meaning of an unknown word?

a)

Antonyms

b)

Synonyms

c)

Examples

d)

HDefinitions

23.

Telling what a word means within the sentence is an example of what type of context clue?

a)

Antonym

b)

Synonym

c)

Example

d)

Definition

24.

Violence, whether it is hitting, kicking, or punching, is not tolerated at school.
This uses which type of context clue?

a)

Antonym

b)

Synonym

c)

Example

d)

Definition

25.

We had so much fun at the party! Everyone had a terrific time.
This is an example of which type of context clue?

a)

Antonym

b)

Synonym

c)

Example

d)

Definition

26.

Mr. James wants us to be prompt in the mornings, not late.
Which type of context clue is used?

a)

Antonym

b)

Synonym

c)

Example

d)

Definition

27.

An Army uniform has symbols on it. These emblems show what the person has done in the Army.
What type of context clue is this?

a)

Antonym

b)

Synonym

c)

Example

d)

Definition

28.

Brianna was uncertain about the question, but she gave her answer as though she was sure of it.
Which type of context clue is used here?

a)

Antonym

b)

Synonym

c)

Example

d)

Definition

29.

Night is the time when many animals forage, or search, for food.
Which type of context clue is being used?

a)

Antonym

b)

Synonym

c)

Example

d)

Definition

30.

The store specializes in cutlery, such as forks and knives, that has unique designs.
Which type of context clue is being used?

a)

Antonym

b)

Synonym

c)

Example

d)

Definition

31.

What are context clues?

a)

Clues that help you figure out the context.

b)

Hints that an author gives to help define a difficult or unusual word.

c)

A piece of evidence or information used in the detection of a crime or solving of a mystery

d)

A verbal formula giving an indication as to what is to be inserted in a particular space in a crossword or other puzzle.

32.

Which context clue is defined as, the word’s meaning is explained in the sentence?

a)

Definition

b)

Antonym

c)

Example

d)

Synonym

33.

Which context clue is defined as, other words are used in the sentence that have similar meanings?

a)

Word Part

b)

Example

c)

Definition

d)

Synonym

34.

Which context clue is defined as, this is a clue in part of the unknown word?

a)

Inference

b)

Antonym

c)

Word Part

d)

Example

35.

What do you call a word that has the opposite meaning of another word?

a)

a homonym

b)

a synonym

c)

an antonym

d)

an explanation

36.

When you are reading and come to an unknown word, what should you do first?

a)

Look for clues in the text

b)

Skip it and keep reading

c)

Look it up in a dictionary

d)

Ask the teacher what it means

37.

Her quiet, timid ways made it hard for her to make friends.

What type of context clue is used to help determine the meaning of the underlined word.

a)

example

b)

antonym

c)

definition

d)

synonym

38.

We remembered to bring all the provisions, such as water, food, and warm clothing on the hike.

What type of context clue is used to help determine the meaning of the underlined word?

a)

synonym

b)

example

c)

inference

d)

definition

39.

Many companies are downsizing, reducing the number of employees they have, in order to save money.

What type of context clue is used to help determine the meaning of the underlined word?

a)

synonym

b)

definition

c)

inference

d)

example

40.

"Unlike John's room, which was immaculate, Jeff's room was very messy."

What type of context clue is used to help determine the meaning of the underlined word?

a)

antonym

b)

inference

c)

definition

d)

synonym

41.

Which sentence uses the underlined word correctly?

a)

Are you threw with dinner?

b)

Water was pumped through the pipes.

c)

The volcano through rocks and dust into the air.

d)

I read threw the whole book.

42.

In which sentence is the underlined word used correctly?

a)

Ashley was a little nervous to meet her fourth grayed teacher.

b)

Principle Chen greeted the families at Back to School Night

c)

Running is not allowed in the school hallways

d)

The Smith twins overslept and mist the bus on the first day!

43.

Read the definition. Which sentence uses story in the same way?

Story: a set of rooms on the same floor of the building

a)

The story of my life is I break a bone every year.

b)

Hugo told a funny story about his dog

c)

Mr. Niles had his class write a creative story.

d)

The second story of the school caught on fire.

44.

We bought our groceries at a store that gets food from local farms. The farms are close to our home.

Local means....

a)

country

b)

hot

c)

old

d)

near our home

45.

During the winter, a tree's branches are bare.

bare means...

a)

a big animal

b)

full of leaves

c)

empty

d)

has lots of fruits

46.

Based on the clues in the passage below, ecstatic means...

They were ecstatic at the birth of their baby. They couldn't stop smiling for days.

a)

nervous

b)

watchful

c)

discouraged

d)

excited

47.

Based on the context clues in the passage below, eliminate means...

Please eliminate the blank lines between the pictures. They were not supposed to be there.

a)

delete

b)

find

c)

color

d)

add

48.

Based on the passage below, obedient means...

The obedient child always followed her mother's requests. That night, she brushed her teeth, folded her clothes, and went to bed before her mother had to come in to remind her.

a)

brushed her teeth

b)

followed her mother's requests

c)

that night

d)

folded her clothes

49.

Context Clues:

After getting caught in the rain, I came home drenched.

a)

Sad

b)

Angry

c)

Wet

d)

Dry

50.

Context Clues:

This recipe has many ingredients and rules. It is complex.

a)

Easy

b)

Sweet

c)

Difficult

d)

Smart

51.

The lost campers sweltered in the heat of the desert sun.

a)

ate

b)

burned

c)

slept

d)

sunbathed

52.

When he didn’t understand the instructions, the student asked the teacher to clarify them.

a)

remove

b)

call

c)

explain

d)

stop

53.

I was so parched, I drank an entire glass of water in one gulp.

a)

hungry

b)

thirsty

c)

sleepy

54.

The delightful aroma of food cooking in the kitchen made my mouth water.

a)

smell

b)

color

c)

wealth

55.

The parking lot was so congested, it took half an hour to get out.

a)

empty

b)

hot

c)

crowded

56.

Pete was envious of his brother's new bicycle.

a)

jealous

b)

confident

c)

comfortable

57.

Marcia is a novice soccer player. It is her first day of practice.

a)

skilled

b)

beginner

c)

professional

58.

The conspicuous man wore a purple wig and large sunglasses.

a)

easily noticed

b)

beautiful

c)

sleeping

59.

The lost campers sweltered in the heat of the desert sun.

a)

ate

b)

burned

c)

slept

d)

sunbathed

60.

Greg begged his parents to PERMIT him to watch more television, but they said he had to finish his homework.

a)

explore

b)

judge

c)

allow

61.

Using hints or clues in the text that surrounds an unknown word is called ______.

a)

RAP-C

b)

context clues

c)

connotation

d)

denotation

62.

Again they searched meticulously, but no keys. If you did something meticulously, you would be-

a)

feeling silly.

b)

working very carefully.

c)

trying to finish quickly.

d)

trying to find something.

63.

It rained all day. It was a gloomy day.
What does gloomy mean?

a)

sunny

b)

cloudy

c)

bright

64.

The broccoli was disgusting. We hid it under our plates. What is disgusting?

a)

delicious

b)

yummy

c)

gross

d)

green

65.

He damaged his bike when he hit a tree. What is damaged?

a)

fell

b)

wrecked

c)

fixed

d)

took

66.

The student was brilliant. He had the highest grade in his class. What is brilliant?

a)

smart

b)

dumb

c)

happy

d)

confused

67.

I was so parched, I drank an entire glass of water in one gulp.

a)

hungry

b)

thirsty

c)

sleepy

68.

Jump and hop are synonyms because _________.

a)

They mean opposite things.

b)

You can find them in the dictionary.

c)

They have an emotional meaning behind them.

d)

They have the same meaning.

69.

The words hot and cold would be considered _____.

a)

antonyms

b)

synonyms

c)

context clues

d)

connotations

70.

You do not seem to trust me. Why are you skeptical?
What is the meaning of the word "skeptical"?

a)

sad

b)

happy

c)

doubtful

d)

trusting

71.

The mood was somber at the funeral of the former president

a)

shyly

b)

serious

c)

hungry

d)

plenty

72.

The continents are slowly drifting apart. Since they are not stationary, North and South America will one day separate entirely.

a)

paper to write letters

b)

land

c)

staying in one place

d)

melting slowly

73.

The lost campers sweltered in the heat of the desert sun.

a)

ate

b)

burned

c)

slept

d)

sunbathed

74.

The thought of eating a rat is ABHORRENT to most people.

a)

fun

b)

horrible

c)

delicious

d)

exciting

75.

Over the holidays, families can show their GENEROSITY by donating food to the homeless.

a)

happiness

b)

sadness

c)

willingness to give

d)

meaness

76.

Since Amanda deferred her vacation, she was able to accomplish more at work first.

a)

advanced

b)

cancelled

c)

delayed

d)

expedited

77.

Unlike my frugal mother, I don't shop bother shopping at sales or clipping coupons.

a)

careful

b)

thrifty

c)

careless

d)

wasteful

78.

Like the winners at the Olympics, I received accolades from my parents for good grades.

a)

rejection

b)

shock

c)

disapproval

d)

praise

79.

Teenagers tend to be belligerent when arguing with their parents.

a)

peaceful

b)

warlike

c)

simple

d)

calm

80.

We often travel to Missouri in the fall to see the bright colors of the fall foliage.

a)

leaves

b)

hurricane

c)

plant

d)

snow

81.

She offered a feeble excuse for her late work and they could tell she wasn't telling the truth.

a)

truthful

b)

excellent

c)

weak

d)

unhealthy

82.

Suzy was making jam. When she finished filling the jars and putting on the lids, she used paraffin to make sure no air would enter the jar.

a)

juice from fruit

b)

wax used for sealing

c)

paper

d)

hot water

83.

The fifty pound pumpkin was gargantuan in size.

a)

huge

b)

small

c)

average

d)

colorful

84.

The mummies of Egypt are very old. So people think the Egyptians had special ways of embalming. Actually, it was the dry air that helped them preserve the dead.

a)

making pyramids

b)

keeping the dead from decaying

c)

keeping things alive

d)

keeping things from smelling bad

85.

The garrulous boy rambled on continuously as he told his mother about his day at school.

a)

talkative

b)

secretive

c)

crazy

d)

quiet

Context Clues

Total questions: 85

Worksheet time: 4hrs 37mins

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