Using Context Clues
Per 3, 5: 9/23/13
Per 2, 4, 6: 9/24/13
Goal/Objective:
You will be able to understand the different types of context
clues to help you decode unknown vocabulary
I will be able to: ___________________

You will be able to apply your understanding of context clues to
assist you with decoding unfamiliar vocabulary.
I will be able to: ____________________

You will be able to increase your comprehension of a given
text with the use of context clues.
I will be able to: ____________________

Context Clues

Authors sometimes give clues called
context clues.
Context clues are hints that help
readers discover the meaning of
unfamiliar words.
It will also be beneficial with verbal
communication.
Four Types of Context Clues

In order to be good “word detectives,”
we need to know what types of clues to
look for.

There are four common types of
context clues…
Definition:
Word is defined in the sentence.
Key clues: means, commas, is known as,
refers to
Example: “The arbitrator, the neutral
person chosen to settle the dispute,
arrived at her decision.”

arbitrator= the neutral person chosen
to settle the dispute
Synonym (or restatement)

Other words are used in the
sentence with similar meanings.
Key Clues: and, or, in other words, that
is
Example: “The thief was elusive and
avoided capture for many years.”

elusive= difficult to find or catch.
Antonym (or contrast)
Key Clues: but, however, although,
whereas, yet, on the other hand, while,
unlike
Examples:
“Unlike Jamaal’s room, which was
immaculate, Jeffrey’s room was very
messy.”
“Melissa is quite lithe, whereas her sister is
clumsy and awkward.”

immaculate= perfectly clean, neat, or
tidy.

lithe- thin, supple, graceful
Example
An example of the word is placed within
the surrounding text.
Key Clues: for example, for instance, such as,
including, like, namely
Example: Eleanor donated to many philanthropic
causes. Homeless shelters and foundations that
assist orphans were namely among the
recipients of her charity.

philanthropic= seeking to help others,
especially by donating money and time to
a good cause.
Big Note:

Although these are four common types of
clues to help you, sometimes the
comprehension of the passage or context
in which the word or phrase is necessary
to decode the closest meaning of the
word or phrase.