Free vocabulary worksheet
Vocabulary in Context Worksheet
Print this page to practice figuring out word meaning from nearby words. The goal is to read the sentence, notice clues, and explain the word in simple language.
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What Are Context Clues?
Context clues are nearby words that help explain a new or hard word.
Ask: What words around the hard word give me a hint?
The Weather Notice
The soccer game was postponed because heavy rain made the field unsafe. The coach said the game would happen next Tuesday instead.
Word: postponed
Question: What does postponed mean in this passage?
Clue: Which words helped you know?
The Medicine Label
The label says to take the medicine with food. It also says to avoid driving if the medicine makes you sleepy.
Word: avoid
Question: What does avoid mean in this passage?
Clue: Which words helped you know?
The Team Message
Rita finished the first part of the project. Now she needs to review the directions again before sending it to her teacher.
Word: review
Question: What does review mean in this passage?
Clue: Which words helped you know?
Proof Check
Underline the clue words in each passage. Then say the word meaning in your own words.
Helper Answer Key
Postponed: moved to a later time. Clues: would happen next Tuesday instead.
Avoid: do not do something / stay away from it. Clues: driving if the medicine makes you sleepy.
Review: look at again. Clues: directions again before sending it.
Helpful praise: “You used the nearby words to figure out the meaning.”
Keep Practicing
Use the comprehension guide for more proof-finding practice, or open the lesson app for daily reading lessons.