Exploros | Using Context for Meaning

Using Context for Meaning

Students learn how to use context to determine the meaning of unfamiliar words and words with multiple meanings. Then they write some of their own sentences to use context to give meaning.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

Engage

Overview

In this experience, students learn how to use context to determine the meaning of unfamiliar words. Then they write some of their own sentences to use context to give meaning.

Students will work in small groups in Scene 4.

Objectives

Use context to clarify the meanings of words.
Use new vocabulary in original writing.

Duration

One class period

We’re used to finding information instantly on our devices. Wondering who’s in that new movie? Enter the title and find out. Can’t remember the address of the theater? Look it up with a touch. Don’t recognize a word in a book you’re reading? Click on it in your e-reader, or enter it in a search engine so you can keep reading.

But sometimes you don’t need to look up an unfamiliar word. You might be able to figure out what the word means by looking at context—the other words in the sentence or nearby sentences. In this experience you will learn how to use context to figure out the meaning of new words.

Objectives

Use context to clarify the meanings of words.
Use new vocabulary in original writing.

A music stand

Which of the following are definitions of the verb to stand?

A) to maintain an upright position on one’s feet
B) to be placed or situated
C) to remain valid, effective
D) to be in a position of possible gain or loss
E) to come to a stop
F) to tolerate and benefit from

Sample sentences using each of the definitions given above:

a) Can you stand on one foot?

b) The school stands on a busy corner.

c) Our agreement still stands.

d) We stand to move up in the ratings following the win.

e) The train is standing in the station.

f) I could stand the noise because I knew the children were enjoying themselves.

The word stand has over 300 different meanings. When you are reading, how do you know which meaning the author intended? In this experience, you will learn to use context to answer that question.

When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.