Deciphering New Words Like a Detective

Sometimes you come across words you don't know. Context clues and word analysis help you figure out meanings without using a dictionary.

Types of Context Clues

• Definition Clues: The meaning is directly explained.
• Synonym/Antonym Clues: Nearby words give hints.
• Example Clues: Specific examples clarify meaning.
• General Sense: The overall sentence or paragraph provides hints.

Word Analysis

• Prefixes: Beginnings of words that change meaning (e.g., 'un-', 'pre-').
• Suffixes: Endings that modify the word (e.g., '-ful', '-less').
• Roots: The main part of the word.

Why This Matters

These skills help you become an independent reader, ready to tackle any text on the TACHS exam or in everyday life.