1. Types of Context Clues:
* Definition/Explanation: The word's meaning is directly stated in the sentence or nearby sentences. Look for words like "that is," "in other words," "means," or "is defined as."
* Example: The text provides an example that helps clarify the word's meaning.
* Synonym/Restatement: The sentence uses a synonym or a different way of saying the word to help you understand it.
* Antonym/Contrast: The sentence uses a word with the opposite meaning, helping you deduce the meaning of the unknown word.
* Inference/Logic: You have to use your understanding of the sentence and surrounding information to infer the meaning of the word.
2. How to Use Context Clues:
* Read the Sentence and Surrounding Sentences: Don't just focus on the isolated word. Read the sentence it's in and the sentences before and after it.
* Look for Clues: Identify the type of context clue being used (definition, example, synonym, etc.).
* Consider the Word's Part of Speech: Is it a noun, verb, adjective, adverb? This can help you narrow down possible meanings.
* Substitute Possible Meanings: Try substituting different possible meanings of the word into the sentence. Does it make sense?
* Think about the Overall Context: What is the general topic of the text? How does the word fit into the overall meaning?
Example:
Sentence: The hiker was aghast when he saw the sheer drop-off at the edge of the cliff.
* Context Clue: The phrase "sheer drop-off" suggests a dangerous situation.
* Inference: "Aghast" likely means something like "horrified" or "shocked" because the hiker would be frightened by the dangerous cliff.
Tips for Success:
* Be patient: It takes time to understand context clues. Don't rush the process.
* Practice: The more you practice, the better you'll become at using context clues.
* Don't be afraid to use a dictionary: If you're still unsure after using context clues, look the word up!
By actively engaging with the text and thinking critically about the surrounding words, you can unlock the meaning of unfamiliar words and improve your reading comprehension.