Context Clues Practice Worksheet
A Grade 9 ELA worksheet focusing on determining the meaning of unfamiliar words using various context clues within sentences and short passages.
Includes
Standards
Topics
Context Clues Practice Worksheet
Name:
Date:
Score:
Read each sentence or passage carefully. Use the context clues provided to determine the meaning of the underlined word. Write your definition in the space provided and identify the type of context clue used (e.g., synonym, antonym, explanation, example).
1. The ancient manuscript was so fragile that it crumbled at the slightest touch. Meaning of fragile: Type of clue:
2. His truculent behavior, always ready for a fight, made him unpopular with his classmates. Meaning of truculent: Type of clue:
3. Unlike his jovial brother, who was always laughing, Mark was quite morose, often withdrawn and gloomy. Meaning of morose: Type of clue:
Read the passage below and determine the meaning of the underlined words.
The old house stood ominously on the hill, its windows like vacant eyes staring out at the desolate landscape. A sense of foreboding permeated the air, making even the bravest visitors hesitate before approaching the crumbling porch. Inside, dust motes danced in the shafts of light that managed to penetrate the grimy panes, illuminating cobwebs that hung like tattered curtains. It was a truly lugubrious place, filled with shadows and a palpable sadness.
4. Meaning of desolate: Type of clue:
5. Meaning of permeated: Type of clue:
6. Meaning of lugubrious: Type of clue:
7. The politician's speech was so verbose that many audience members lost interest. What does 'verbose' most likely mean?
Clear and concise
Lengthy and wordy
Humorous and entertaining
Powerful and inspiring
8. The ancient ruins were a testament to the civilization's former grandeur; they were truly magnificent. What does 'grandeur' mean?
Decline
Poverty
Splendor
Simplicity
9. Explain in your own words why understanding different types of context clues is important for improving reading comprehension and vocabulary. Provide an example of how you might use a specific type of context clue when encountering an unfamiliar word in a text.