Context Clues -> definition or explanation clues
Definition or Explanation Clues
Definition or explanation clues are hints within a text that help readers understand the meaning of a word or concept. These clues can be found in the same sentence or nearby sentences, providing context and clarification.
Types of Definition or Explanation Clues
- Direct Definition: The meaning of a word is directly stated within the sentence or nearby sentences. For example: "The word 'incredible' means unbelievable."
- Examples: The text provides examples or specific instances to illustrate the meaning of a word or concept. For example: "He exhibited great empathy, always showing compassion and understanding for others."
- Comparison or Contrast: The author compares or contrasts the word or concept with something else to help the reader understand its meaning. For example: "Unlike his older brother, who was outgoing and sociable, Sam was introverted and reserved."
- Cause and Effect: The text explains the cause and effect relationship of the word or concept, providing insight into its meaning. For example: "The extreme heat led to a drought, causing a shortage of water in the region."
Study Guide
Here are some strategies and tips for identifying and using definition or explanation clues while reading:
- Contextual Analysis: Pay attention to the surrounding sentences and paragraphs to identify clues that provide the meaning of a word or concept.
- Word Recognition: Look for signal words or phrases such as "means," "is defined as," "for example," "like," "unlike," "because," "resulted in," etc.
- Inference: Use the clues to make inferences about the meaning of unfamiliar words or concepts, and then verify the understanding by reading the rest of the passage.
- Practice: Practice identifying and using definition or explanation clues with sample passages and texts to improve comprehension skills.
[Definition Or Explanation Clues] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:
.◂English Language Arts Worksheets and Study Guides Third Grade. Context Clues
Worksheet/Answer key
Context Clues 
Worksheet/Answer key
Context Clues Worksheet/Answer key
Context Clues
Worksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyThe resources above cover the following skills:
Reading Standards: Foundational Skills
Fluency
Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension. [RF.3.4]
Use context to confirm or self-correct word recognition and understanding, rereading as necessary. [RF.3.4c]
Language Standards
Vocabulary Acquisition and Use
Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on Grade 3 reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies. [L.3.4]
Use sentence-level context as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase. [L.3.4a]
Demonstrate understanding of word relationships and nuances in word meanings. [L.3.5]
Distinguish the literal and nonliteral meanings of words and phrases in context (e.g., take steps). [L.3.5a]