You're correct that this worksheet is about
Context Clues - Definition Clues. The task asks you to use the definition clues provided in each sentence to understand the meaning of the underlined word.
Definition clues are hints within a sentence or paragraph that explain the meaning of an unfamiliar word. They often use punctuation like commas, brackets, or dashes, and words like *is*, *are*, *or*, *such as*, etc., to give a direct explanation.
Here’s the solution for each sentence, explaining how the definition clue works:
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1. Many *caverns* or large caves can be found under the ground.
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Meaning: Large caves
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Explanation: The word "or" acts as a definition clue. It directly tells us that "caverns" means "large caves".
2. The *harsh*, rough, weather is cold and unbearable.
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Meaning: Rough
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Explanation: The comma after "harsh" introduces a description that clarifies its meaning. "Rough" is used as a synonym right after it.
3. *Serpents* also called snakes, are cold blooded animals.
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Meaning: Snakes
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Explanation: The phrase "also called snakes" is enclosed by commas and provides a direct synonym for "serpents".
4. *Foreigners*, people who live in other countries, often visit our island.
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Meaning: People who live in other countries
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Explanation: The phrase "people who live in other countries" is set off by commas and acts as a direct definition of "foreigners".
5. The show will *commence* or start at 5 p.m., next Sunday.
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Meaning: Start
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Explanation: The word "or" signals a synonym. "Commence" is defined here as "start".
6. *Herbivores*, such as cows and goats, are animals that eat plants only.
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Meaning: Animals that eat plants only
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Explanation: The phrase "such as cows and goats" gives examples, and the clause "are animals that eat plants only" provides the full definition.
7. Grand Mesa is the largest *mesa* (flat-topped mountain) in the world.
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Meaning: Flat-topped mountain
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Explanation: The definition is given inside parentheses right after the word "mesa".
8. *Droughts* or long periods without rain, can destroy agricultural crops.
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Meaning: Long periods without rain
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Explanation: The phrase "long periods without rain" follows "or" and defines what "droughts" are.
9. A *deluge* is a flood caused by heavy rainfall.
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Meaning: A flood caused by heavy rainfall
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Explanation: The word "is" directly links "deluge" to its definition.
10. Agony or pain is an *unpleasant*, nasty, feeling.
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Meaning: Nasty
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Explanation: The comma after "unpleasant" separates it from "nasty," which serves as a synonym or further description. While "unpleasant" is the main term, "nasty" is used as a clarifying synonym. *(Note: In this sentence, "unpleasant" is the underlined word, so its meaning is clarified by "nasty".)*
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In summary, to solve these, you need to look for:
- Synonyms (words with similar meanings) introduced by "or", "also called", or commas.
- Direct definitions introduced by "is", "are", or set off by commas, dashes, or parentheses.
- Examples introduced by "such as".
These clues help you figure out the meaning of unfamiliar words without needing a dictionary!
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of meaning context clues grade 2.
