Context Clues Worksheets - 15 Worksheets Library - Free Printable

Here’s the solution to the Context Clues: 6th Grade worksheet, with explanations for each answer based on the passage.

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1. relic means:

> B. antiquity

Explanation:
The passage says, *“It’s a good thing we were the ones to find the relic. If this ancient treasure had fallen into the hands of...”*
The word “ancient” directly tells us the relic is old — from long ago. “Antiquity” means something very old or from ancient times. “Modern” would mean new or current, which contradicts “ancient.”

✔ Correct Answer: B. antiquity

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2. malicious means:

> B. not well meaning

Explanation:
The sentence says: *“If this ancient treasure had fallen into the hands of some malicious actor, it would have been a catastrophe for history.”*
A “malicious actor” is someone who would do harm or act with bad intent — so “not well meaning” fits perfectly. “Well meaning” would imply kindness or good intentions, which doesn’t fit here.

✔ Correct Answer: B. not well meaning

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3. catastrophe means:

> B. a bad thing

Explanation:
The passage says: *“...it would have been a catastrophe for history.”*
Since the context is about something terrible happening (treasure falling into bad hands), “catastrophe” must mean a disaster or a very bad event. “A good thing” would contradict the warning tone.

✔ Correct Answer: B. a bad thing

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4. calculate means:

> A. figure out

Explanation:
The sentence says: *“We calculate it must be several thousands of years old.”*
This means they are using reasoning or evidence to determine the age — that’s “figuring out.” “Guess” implies no evidence or logic, but the passage suggests they’re basing it on study.

✔ Correct Answer: A. figure out

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5. composition means:

> B. effect

Wait — let’s look again.

Actually, “composition” in this context means what the relic is made of — the materials or elements that make up the object.

But the choices given are:
- A. make up
- B. effect

“Make up” can mean “what something is composed of,” like “the composition of the metal.” “Effect” means result or impact — that doesn’t fit.

So even though “make up” sounds informal, in this context, it’s the best match.

✔ Correct Answer: A. make up

*(Note: In academic terms, “composition” = what something is made of — so “make up” is the closest option.)*

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6. tentative means:

> B. possible

Explanation:
The passage says: *“We have made tentative plans to turn it over to a museum...”*
“Tentative” means not final — subject to change, possibly not going to happen. So “possible” fits — these are plans that might happen, not guaranteed. “Firm” means definite or certain, which contradicts “tentative.”

✔ Correct Answer: B. possible

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7. confer means:

> A. consult

Explanation:
The sentence says: *“First, we need to confer with some other experts in the field.”*
To “confer with” someone means to discuss or consult with them — especially to get advice or share information. “Avoid” is the opposite — you don’t avoid experts when you need their input!

✔ Correct Answer: A. consult

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## ✔ Final Answers:

1. B. antiquity
2. B. not well meaning
3. B. a bad thing
4. A. figure out
5. A. make up
6. B. possible
7. A. consult

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