SSAT Middle Level Reading

A subject designed to help students master reading comprehension skills needed for the SSAT Middle Level test.

Understanding Main IdeasIdentifying Supporting DetailsMaking Inferences
Analyzing Author’s Purpose and ToneUnderstanding Vocabulary in ContextComparing and Contrasting Information
Applying Reading Skills to Science TextsReading for Everyday DecisionsUnderstanding Nonfiction and Fiction Differences
Time Management During the TestElimination Techniques for Multiple ChoiceCareful Reading and Note-Taking
Understanding Main I...Identifying Supporti...Making InferencesAnalyzing Author’s P...Understanding Vocabu...Comparing and Contra...Applying Reading Ski...Reading for Everyday...Understanding Nonfic...Time Management Duri...Elimination Techniqu...Careful Reading and ...
Advanced Topics

Understanding Vocabulary in Context

What is Vocabulary in Context?

Sometimes you’ll see words you don’t know. The SSAT loves to test if you can figure out what these words mean by using clues from the surrounding sentences.

How to Use Context Clues

  • Definition: The word is explained right after it.
  • Synonyms/Antonyms: Similar or opposite words nearby.
  • Examples: The sentence gives examples to show meaning.

Steps to Solve Vocabulary Questions

  1. Read the sentence with the tricky word.
  2. Look at the sentences before and after.
  3. Guess the meaning based on clues.
  4. Check if your guess makes sense in the passage.

Why It Matters

This skill helps you understand any reading, not just the SSAT!

Examples

  • If a passage says 'The arid desert was dry and lifeless,' you can guess that 'arid' means very dry.

  • 'She was elated, or extremely happy, when she won the prize.' The context tells us 'elated' means very happy.

In a Nutshell

Figure out tough words using clues from the passage itself.

Key Terms

Context Clues
Hints in the surrounding text that help you figure out the meaning of a word.
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Comparing and Contrasting Information