CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.3.4
The Standard
Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning word and phrases based on grade 3 reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts · Language Standards
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students figure out unfamiliar words and phrases by using sentence clues, word parts, and reference tools. They also decide which meaning of a multiple-meaning word fits the passage.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students select a meaning that fits the sentence and explain which clues support it. They can use common prefixes, suffixes, roots, a glossary, or a dictionary when context is not enough.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may choose the first dictionary definition without checking the sentence. They may treat nearby words as the answer instead of using them as clues, or confuse a prefix with part of the base word.
How to Assess It
- Give students: “The bat flew from the cave at dusk.” Ask them to define “bat,” underline two clues, and explain why another meaning does not fit.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Place word cards, prefix cards, and suffix cards in bags, then have pairs build words and explain how each added part changes meaning.
Ask, “How does the meaning of light change in ‘light bag’ and ‘turn on the light’?” Students write and compare explanations.
Play Context Clue Match by having teams pair unknown-word sentences with definition cards and justify each match before earning a point.
Students examine a menu, weather report, or game directions, circle unfamiliar words, and use context or a glossary to define them.
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Printable L.3.4 Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.3.4, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
PDF, US Letter, prints cleanly in black and white.
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