Homophones and Homographs — Answer Key
Part A: Fix the Sentence
Each sentence has an error. Rewrite it correctly on the line.
1. Fix the sentence:
The principle of our school gave a speech.
Corrected: The principal of our school gave a speech.
Principal refers to a person in charge, like a school leader, while principle means a guiding rule.
2. Fix the sentence:
She baked a plane cake without frosting.
Corrected: She baked a plain cake without frosting.
Plain describes something simple or undecorated, while plane refers to an airplane or geometric flat surface.
3. Fix the sentence:
Skating is aloud at the new rink.
Corrected: Skating is allowed at the new rink.
Allowed means given permission, while aloud means spoken with a voice you can hear.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. The principal of the school welcomed the new fifth graders today.
Principal is a noun for a leader; the suffix -pal hints at a friendly leader.
2. Honesty is a principle that guides her every decision.
Principle means a fundamental rule or value, not a person.
3. She wore a plain blue dress to the assembly.
Plain describes a simple style, while plane means aircraft or surface.
4. Running in the hallway is not allowed during class.
Allowed means given permission; aloud means audible speech.
Part C: Short Answer
Answer each question in one or two complete sentences.
1. Explain the difference between principal and principle in one sentence.
Sample answer: Principal is a person who leads a school, while principle is a rule or belief that guides behavior.
Principal names a person or main item, but principle names an abstract rule or value.
2. Use allowed and aloud in two clear sentences that show their meanings.
Sample answer: Eating is allowed in the cafeteria, and the teacher read the story aloud to the class.
Allowed expresses permission, and aloud describes speech that is heard, not silent reading.