Context clues help students figure out the meaning of unfamiliar vocabulary. Using these clues is an essential reading skill for all ages and reading levels. In addition to context clue worksheets, students can practice context clues through fun games and hands-on learning experiences. By incorporating context clue practice routines into your curriculum, students will begin to look for context clues as they are reading independently. Get stuck into the reading below to discover 8 captivating context clues to add to your classroom routine!
1. Context Clues Climber
Interactive online games can be one of the most engaging context clue activities for children. They will learn about the different types of context clues through vivid images. To play, students will navigate their way through the course. When they encounter an obstacle, they will answer vocabulary questions.
Learn more: E-Reading Games
2. Context Clues Song
This context clue video is perfect for elementary and middle school students. The lyrics are depicted on screen so students can sing along as they learn the song. It incorporates examples of context clues and demonstrates how to check for them. What a fun introduction to a context clues unit!
Learn more: Grammar Songs by Melissa
3. Context Clues Bingo
Play bingo to have some context clue fun with your students! You will announce each context clue as students mark their boards with the correct answer. Once their board is full, they can shout Bingo!
Learn more: Lakeshore Learning
4. Pirate Treasure Context Clue Game
This is a great activity for students to learn vocabulary skills and various context clue strategies. Students will play by reading and answering story cards that guide students in their search for gold. The player to reach the treasure and give the correct answer to the question wins.
Learn more: Amazon
5. Context Clues Challenge
This online game asks students context clue questions in a multiple-choice format. Students will read each question and select the best answer. Split the class into teams to incorporate a bit of friendly competition!
Learn more: Word Wall
6. Jeopardy Context Clues Game
Jeopardy is a fun context clues activity for elementary students. This is a good activity to focus on specific types of context clues. Pick a category and a point value such as “Context clues for 300” and provide a student answer.
Learn more: Jeopardy Labs
7. Context Clues Treasure Hunt
Introduce the concept of a reading treasure hunt! The treasure they are looking for is the meaning of the unknown word. The surrounding words are the clues that will point them in the right direction to find the treasure.
Learn more: Beeblio
8. Word Riddles
Before reading, write down word meanings from a text that is new to your child. As they read, place the paper over the new word to see if the meaning word makes sense. This activity is perfect for a standards-based lesson about context clues.
Learn more: Beeblio