1. Definition/Explanation Clues:
* The author directly defines the unfamiliar word within the sentence or paragraph.
* Example: "The omnivore, meaning an animal that eats both plants and meat, is a common sight in the forest."
2. Synonym Clues:
* The author uses a synonym (a word with a similar meaning) for the unfamiliar word.
* Example: "The serene lake was so tranquil and peaceful that I felt completely relaxed."
3. Antonym Clues:
* The author uses an antonym (a word with the opposite meaning) for the unfamiliar word.
* Example: "Instead of being timid, she was quite bold and stood up for herself."
4. Example Clues:
* The author provides examples that help illustrate the meaning of the unfamiliar word.
* Example: "The aridity of the desert made it difficult for plants to survive. The lack of rainfall and the dry, sandy soil made it a challenging environment."
5. Inference Clues:
* The author doesn't directly define the word, but you can infer its meaning from the surrounding sentences and the overall context.
* Example: "The cacophony of the city streets made it impossible to concentrate. Cars honked, sirens wailed, and people shouted." (You can infer that "cacophony" means a loud, unpleasant mixture of sounds.)
How to Use Context Clues:
1. Read the sentence or paragraph carefully.
2. Identify the unfamiliar word.
3. Look for surrounding words or phrases that provide clues about the word's meaning.
4. Consider the context of the sentence or passage.
5. Think about the possible meanings of the word and choose the one that best fits the context.
Remember: Context clues are powerful tools, but they are not always foolproof. Sometimes you may need to consult a dictionary to confirm your understanding.