Context Clues:
* Definition/Explanation: The author directly defines the word or explains its meaning within the sentence or paragraph.
* Example: The author provides an example that illustrates the meaning of the word.
* Synonym/Restatement: The author uses a synonym or rephrases the sentence in a way that clarifies the meaning.
* Antonym: The author uses a word with the opposite meaning to help the reader understand the unknown word.
* Inference: The reader can deduce the meaning of the word based on the surrounding words and the overall context of the passage.
Word Structure:
* Prefixes and Suffixes: Understanding prefixes and suffixes can help break down the word and reveal its meaning.
* Root Words: Knowing the root word's meaning can often provide a starting point for understanding the overall word.
* Etymology: Researching the origin and history of the word can provide clues about its meaning.
Reference Materials:
* Dictionary: A dictionary provides precise definitions, pronunciations, and examples of usage.
* Thesaurus: A thesaurus can help find synonyms and antonyms for the unknown word, providing context for its meaning.
* Online Resources: Websites like Merriam-Webster, Dictionary.com, and Vocabulary.com offer definitions, pronunciations, and sometimes even visual aids.
Strategies for Active Reading:
* Highlighting/Underlining: Marking the unknown word and surrounding context can help you focus on the clues.
* Note-Taking: Writing down your initial thoughts and observations about the word's potential meaning can aid in understanding.
* Re-reading: Reading the sentence or paragraph again with the unknown word in mind can reveal more context clues.
Additional Tips:
* Consider the genre and tone: The genre of writing (fiction, non-fiction, etc.) and the author's tone can provide clues about the word's meaning.
* Don't be afraid to guess: Sometimes, making an educated guess based on the context clues can be a good starting point.
* Practice, practice, practice: The more you read and encounter unknown words, the better you will become at using these strategies.
Ultimately, the most effective strategy depends on the individual reader, the specific word, and the context in which it appears. By combining multiple strategies, readers can effectively decode the meaning of unfamiliar words and enhance their comprehension.