Grade 9 English

Quarter 1, Module 9
Lesson 9, Context Clues

Lesson 9
Competency: EN9V-Ih-12.3: Note types of context clue (restatement, definition,
synonyms, antonyms) used for a given word or expression

Have you ever experienced reading a book or an article

where the words are so difficult that it would seem like you
have never understood anything despite the fact that you
already have read three pages? Well, you are not alone.
Some of us, particularly reading beginners really find it
hard to do it. However, did you know that there is a
technique so that you will understand difficult words even if
you have just met them? Yes there is, and they are called context clues. Now, let us
learn how these can help us.

CONTEXT CLUES

Introducing the strategy

This strategy will be used in fiction and nonfiction reading. When a reader
encounters an unfamiliar word, using this strategy will help the reader to determine
the meaning of the word. The strategy provides the students with specific steps to
use as they attempt to determine meanings. As students become more proficient in
using context clues in the text, they will gradually develop a more extensive and
more powerful reading vocabulary.
Definition of Context Clues
Sometimes when reading, you come to an unknown word. Look for clues in the text
to help you figure it out. The words and sentences around the unknown word can
give clues. These clues are called context clues. Sometimes they are found close
to the new word. Sometimes you must look in the paragraph before or after the word.
Use information provided in the text and what makes sense to figure out the meaning
of the word.
Context Clues
Helping words or punctuation (or, and,
called, like)
Opposite or same meaning
Your own experience

Examples
Harry was furious, or angry, at his
friend.
Marys cat looks tame when sleeping,
but wild when awake.
When Harrys owl died, he was filled
with grief. (You know that if your pet will

Sentences before or after

Definition provided

Examples given

die you would feel sad)

The people were nomads. They went
from place to place looking for food.
Hermione got a scholarship for winning
the contest. A scholarship is a grant or
prize to pay for school
Ron used the utensil to eat his lunch

How to Use Context Clues

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Locate the unfamiliar word

Write the word down in your student response journal or sticky note
Write down the paragraph or page number
Read before and after the word (read around the word)
Write down words that help you find the meaning of the word (context
clues)
6. Write down what you think the word means (make a prediction)
7. Check to make sure that your prediction makes sense (reread to confirm)
Easy, right? Now, let us have an exercise to strengthen what you have learned.

Exercise 1
1. __________________are the words in a sentence that help us figure out the
meaning of the unfamiliar words.
2. In some texts, the author will define the word or give you a word that means the
same thing. In these cases, you have to look for the ___________.
a. synonym
b. antonym
c. example
d. sentence structure
3. Analyzing the structure of the text may help determine the word's ______________.
a. part of speech
b. description
c. synonym
d. antonym
4. Which of the following types of context clues was used in the text below to help you
determine the meaning of the word officious?
Diana was an officious person. For instance, she was always involved in other
people's
business.
a.
b.
c.
d.

example
synonym
antonym
sentence structure

5. Which of the following types of context clues was used in the sentence below to help
you determine the meaning of the word egocentric?
Because of his egocentric thinking, Joe is often thought of as self-absorbed,
someone who thinks very highly of himself.
a.
b.
c.
d.

synonym
antonym
examples
sentence structure

6. Which of the following types of context clues was used in the sentence below to help
you determine the meaning of the word rudimentary?
Although the algebra class was supposed to be for advanced students, the skills that
were being taught were very rudimentary.
a.
b.
c.
d.

antonym
synonym
example
sentence structure

7. Which of the following types of context clues was used in the sentence below to help
you determine the meaning of the word quench?

Last week, Tyler was able to quench the fire that occurred science class before any
damage was done.
a.
b.
c.
d.

sentence structure
synonym
antonym
examples

8. Which of the following words can complete the sentence?

Lacy's ___________ was clear when she continued to eat cake after she had stated
she was already full.
a.
b.
c.
d.

gluttony
hunger
fullness
adequacy

9. Which of the following words can complete the sentence?

Everyone thought Quinton was _person, given that he did not speak
much in
class.
a.
b.
c.
d.

a taciturn
a clamorous
an eminent
a prevalent

10. Which of the following words can complete the sentence?

A recent knee injury _ Ken's ability to break his personal record in the
race.
a.
b.
c.
d.

impeded
jeopardized
helped
accentuated

Answer Key:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

context clues
A
A
A
A

6.
7.
8.
9.

A
A
A
A
10. A