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Context and reference tools

EnglishGrade 3LiteracyFree

Use the sentence, compare senses, and check a reference meaning

What it is about

Use sentence clues and supplied dictionary or glossary senses to choose the meaning that fits a word in context.

Grade 3 · 8–9 years · 30 challenges

Before you begin

  • Grade2 text questions, decoding, linked reasons and organized event accounts.

What the class will do

  1. Choose and explain · 8 challenges

    Find the context clue

    Read the complete sentence. Choose the meaning supported by its example, contrast or explanation.

  2. Match pairs · 8 challenges

    Choose a dictionary sense

    Each board supplies three senses. Match every sentence use to its precise meaning; keep all sentences in view.

  3. Choose and explain · 8 challenges

    Test the meaning

    Try each proposed meaning in the complete sentence. Check what the words establish and what remains unknown.

  4. Match pairs · 6 challenges

    Use a practice glossary

    Use the supplied definitions as a small glossary. Match the word as used in each sentence, then explain the clue.

Using it in class

Ask everyone to point to the decisive words before the representative acts. All definitions are original practice entries. Read the whole sentence; a familiar or first-listed meaning may not fit. Five questions form a short round. Full-bank estimate: 30–45 minutes with brief discussion.

Give everyone time to think and discuss before one pupil acts at the board. The class explains and confirms together; hints and explanations stay until you move on.

Use an up-to-date browser on a computer connected to a whiteboard or shared display. Touch, mouse and keyboard; optional audio and reduced motion. No pupil accounts or personal devices.

Choose from 5 challenges up to the full activity. Discussion determines the duration: you set the pace.

A look inside the activities

Choose and explain

The sturdy stool held the heavy books without bending. What does sturdy mean here?

  • easy to fold
  • covered in writing
  • strong and solid
Explanation and discussion

The stool held the load without bending, so sturdy means strong and solid. The sentence does not describe folding or writing.

Which words gave you evidence beyond the stool’s name?

Match pairs

Practice dictionary: match each use of bat to the sense that fits.

  • The hitter swung a bat.
  • A bat flew from its roost.
  • The kitten tried to bat the string.

Match with:

  • a flying mammal
  • a club used to hit a ball
  • to hit with a paw or hand
Explanation and discussion

A hitter uses a club, a flying bat is an animal, and to bat a string is an action. The same letters do not force the same sense.

Which sentence uses bat as an action?

Choose and explain

The worker will seal the crack so water cannot leak through. Which dictionary sense fits seal?

  • a sea mammal
  • an official stamp design
  • close tightly
Explanation and discussion

Closing the crack tightly can prevent a leak. A sea mammal or a stamp design cannot replace the action seal in this sentence.

Which words supply the purpose of the action?

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