Context Clues
The skill of using context clues when approaching unfamiliar words is an essential key to becoming a strong reader.  The GrammarSong video “Context Clues” not only provides examples of how a reader can use context clues, but it defines the types of context clues good readers look for:  definitions, examples, synonyms, and antonyms.  When teaching context clues, it is important to apply the skill to real literature and reading in the classroom.  When teaching, I ask each student not only to use context clues, but to identify the type of context clue she/he specifically used when analyzing a new word.

Review Video & Follow These Instructional Guidelines

Second Grade 

  • Encourage your child to skip over an unfamiliar word when reading (if he or she can't sound it out) and to use context clues as a natural way of figuring out unfamiliar words.
  1. Extra Engagement: Practice using context clues in a real world way by using sticky notes to cover up words in big books or when participating in choral reading or smartboard activities.

Third Grade

  • When reading, identify the type of context clue that you encounter when figuring out an unfamiliar word. Was the clue a definition, synonym, antonym, or an example?
  • Play the GrammarSong activity “Context Clue Game (Intermediate)" to practice using context clues in a game-friendly format.  The self-checking cards can be used with a game board, within a cooperative learning structure, or as a literacy center.

Fourth Grade 

  • Complete grammar sheet “Context Clues.”  Identify whether the clue provided was a synonym, antonym, definition, or example.  
  1. Extra Engagement:  Print out and play “Context Clue Game (Intermediate)” and/or “Context Clue Game (Advanced)” to practice using context clues in a game-friendly format.  The self-checking cards can be used with a game board, within a cooperative learning structure, or as a literacy center.

Fifth Grade 

  • Complete grammar sheet “More Context Clues.”  Identify whether the clue provided was a synonym, antonym, definition, or example.  
  1. Extra Engagement:  Print out and play “Context Clue Game (Intermediate)” and/or “Context Clue Game (Advanced).” to practice using context clues in a game-friendly format.  The self-checking cards can be used with a game board, within a cooperative learning structure, or as a literacy center.
Still Not a Member? CLICK NOW!