MTEL Communication Literacy Skills : Reading Practice Test

What technique is effective for defining an unfamiliar word in a text?

1. Using synonyms from the text

2. Looking at the descriptive words in context

3. Relying on personal understanding of the word

4. Comparing it with antonyms in the text

The correct answer is: Looking at the descriptive words in context

Looking at the descriptive words in context is an effective technique for defining an unfamiliar word in a text because the surrounding words and phrases can provide important clues about the meaning of the unfamiliar term. Context often helps to clarify how a word is used within a sentence or passage, offering insights into its connotation and broader implications. For instance, if a passage describes a character as "gloomy" and then uses the unfamiliar word "morose," the context suggests a meaning related to sadness or gloominess. Analyzing descriptive words can also reveal nuances in meaning that may not be captured by simple definitions. This method encourages a deeper comprehension of the text as it allows readers to infer meaning based on the overall theme and emotional tone set by the author. In contrast, relying solely on synonyms or antonyms may not always capture the specific meaning intended by the author, and personal understanding might be limited by prior knowledge.