Context Clues — Answer Key
Part A: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. The word "transparent," meaning see-through, describes materials like glass.
The definition clue "meaning see-through" helps identify that transparent materials like glass let light pass through.
2. A definition clue restates the meaning of a word in simpler terms.
A definition clue directly explains the word's meaning using signal phrases like "means" or "which is."
3. Signal words "but" and "however" often introduce antonym clues.
Contrast signal words indicate an antonym clue is coming, helping readers identify the opposite meaning.
4. The enormous elephant was much larger than the tiny mouse.
"Enormous" and "much larger than" provide an antonym clue that the mouse is tiny by contrast.
5. When a word has more than one meaning, you must read the context to pick the right one.
The surrounding context clarifies which meaning of a multiple-meaning word applies.
6. "For instance" and "for example" are signals for example clues.
These signal phrases introduce specific examples that illustrate the meaning of an unfamiliar word.
7. The famished boy ate three plates of food because he was very hungry .
"Ate three plates of food" is an example clue that famished means extremely hungry.
8. A synonym clue uses a word with the same meaning as the unknown word.
Synonym clues provide a familiar word with the same or similar meaning to clarify an unfamiliar one.
9. Good readers use context clues before reaching for a dictionary .
Context clues are a first-resort strategy that allows readers to determine meaning without interrupting reading flow.
Part B: Matching
Match each item on the left to the correct answer on the right.
1. Match each item to its correct answer.
Definition clue
→ Explains meaning directly in the sentence
Lists specific items or instances
Synonym clue
→ Gives a word with a similar meaning
Shows the opposite meaning
Antonym clue
→ Shows the opposite meaning
Gives a word with a similar meaning
Example clue
→ Lists specific items or instances
Explains meaning directly in the sentence
Definition clue → Explains meaning directly; Synonym clue → Similar meaning word; Antonym clue → Opposite meaning; Example clue → Lists specific instances.