SSAT Upper Level Reading

A comprehensive guide to mastering reading comprehension for the SSAT Upper Level exam.

Understanding Passage TypesFinding Main Ideas and Supporting DetailsMaking Inferences and Drawing Conclusions
Analyzing Author’s Purpose and ToneUnderstanding Vocabulary in ContextEvaluating Arguments and Evidence
Applying Reading Skills to Everyday LifeEffective Note-Taking and AnnotationSummarizing and Paraphrasing
Time Management During the TestEliminating Wrong Answer Choices
Understanding Passag...Finding Main Ideas a...Making Inferences an...Analyzing Author’s P...Understanding Vocabu...Evaluating Arguments...Applying Reading Ski...Effective Note-Takin...Summarizing and Para...Time Management Duri...Eliminating Wrong An...
Advanced Topics

Understanding Vocabulary in Context

Unlocking the Meaning of Words

The SSAT often asks you about the meaning of words as they are used in the passage. Sometimes, words have multiple definitions, and only one fits the context.

Steps to Figure Out Vocabulary

  • Read the sentence with the word carefully.
  • Use context clues—look at the words and sentences around the unknown word.
  • Substitute different meanings and see which one makes sense.

Why This Matters

In real life, understanding words in context helps you read faster and more accurately, especially when you encounter new vocabulary.

Examples

  • Finding that 'bright' means 'intelligent,' not 'shiny,' in a specific sentence.

  • Using surrounding sentences to figure out that 'elated' means 'very happy.'

In a Nutshell

Learn to use context clues to understand unfamiliar words.

Key Terms

Context Clues
Hints in the text that help you figure out what a word means.
Vocabulary in Context
Understanding a word’s meaning based on how it is used in the passage.
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Evaluating Arguments and Evidence