Vocabulary in Context — Drills · Grade 8 English
Chapter: Language, Style & ConventionsWhat these drills covers
By the end of Vocabulary in Context you should be able to:
- I can use context clues to figure out the meaning of an unfamiliar word.
- I can use word parts (roots, prefixes, suffixes) to determine a word's meaning.
2 questions, written answer, each with a worked explanation.
Vocabulary used: context clues, root word, multiple-meaning word.
Problem 1
Answer and explanation
Use the surrounding sentence and paragraph to infer a word’s meaning, then check a reliable dictionary when needed. Grammatical role and word parts narrow possibilities but do not guarantee a meaning. Show an actual application before considering the method recalled.
Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.
Response criteria
- Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
- Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
- Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.
Problem 2
Answer and explanation
Use the sentence’s evidence of uncertainty rather than a judgment about effort. A dictionary can confirm whether the inference fits the word’s usage.
Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.
Response criteria
- Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
- Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
- Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.