New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

What is the purpose of using context clues in reading?

1. To increase vocabulary through guesswork

2. To aid in the understanding of unknown words

3. To minimize decoding strategies

4. To limit the number of new words encountered

The correct answer is: To aid in the understanding of unknown words

Using context clues in reading serves the essential purpose of aiding in the understanding of unknown words. When readers come across words they do not know, context clues—such as the surrounding text, sentence structure, and even visual cues—can provide hints or direct information that helps them infer the meaning of the unfamiliar word. This strategy allows readers to derive meaning without interrupting their flow or comprehension of the larger text. Utilizing context clues encourages active engagement with texts, prompting readers to think critically and draw upon their prior knowledge and experiences. This not only aids in vocabulary acquisition but also enhances overall comprehension, as understanding the meaning of individual words is crucial to grasping the full message of the text. By relying on context, readers develop strategies that promote independent learning and deepen their language skills.