Notice the word
Pause at the unfamiliar word without giving up.
When a word is unfamiliar, the words around it can leave clues.
Do not skip the word or guess from one letter. Read the whole sentence. Look for examples, descriptions, contrasts, or word parts. Try a meaning and check whether it makes sense.
Pause at the unfamiliar word without giving up.
Read the sentence before and after the word.
Look for examples, descriptions, contrasts, and word parts.
Replace the word with your idea and reread the sentence.
Use Lena’s actions to explain the word reluctant.
Open Meaning MakerReplace reluctant with eager. Notice how the scene changes.
Try a Word SwapWrite the word on one side and draw its strongest context clue on the other.
Open the AtelierThe first idea is not always the best one. Reread and test it. Strong readers change their minds when the clues point somewhere new.