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Lesson 10

We will analyze 10 vocabulary words and phrases from Chapters 9–12 of In the Time of the Butterflies.

Lesson Goals

  • Can I use tools, such as context, to decode the meaning of unknown words?

  • Can I decode words being used in unconventional ways and verify my inferences using a dictionary?

Texts

Core

  • Tradebook
    • In the Time of the Butterflies, Julia Alvarez, Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill, 2010

Materials

Tools

Editable Google Docs

Activity 1: Listen – Discuss

We will discuss the various strategies we can use to determine the meaning of Unknown words or phrases.

In a text, there will often be words or phrases you are not familiar with. Often, readers use context (other words near the unknown word providing clues or a definition) to determine the meaning of the unknown word.

The Vocabulary in Context Tool outlines a process for using contextual clues, such as nearby ideas, words, and phrases to help you define and understand unknown words or words that might have multiple meanings. The steps provided in the tool and the questions shared in the tool provide a model process that strong readers follow internally when reading a complex text in or outside of school. Keep in mind that not all words can be defined in context.

Sometimes, there is not enough context to determine the meaning of an unknown word, so the reader has to use another strategy, such as examining the prefix, suffix, or root; consulting a dictionary; or using an online tool such as Google.

How do you know when to use context clues and when to use another strategy to determine the meaning of an unknown word?

Activity 2: Discuss – Write

We will determine when to use context clues and when to use another strategy to determine the meaning of an Unknown word in a text.

Some of the vocabulary words below have enough context to determine the meaning; some of them do not have enough context. How will you know when to use context clues and when to try another strategy?

You might use a Vocabulary in Context Tool for words you can decipher from the text; for others, you might use morphology to decipher the meaning, or a reference resource to check if your meaning is accurate.

Work with a partner to determine the meaning of the following words:

  • scolds (p. 173)

  • adamant (p. 176)

  • probing (p. 186)

  • bravado (p. 188)

  • deflated (p. 188)

  • empathetic (p. 205)

  • cordon (p. 207)

  • "like moths drawn towards the light" (p. 262)

Record the words and definitions in your Vocabulary Journal. For each word, identify the vocabulary strategy (e.g., context, morphology, reference resource) you used to determine its meaning.

Finally, respond to the following question:

  1. How do you know your definition is right?

Activity 3: Read – Write

Now we will select the last two vocabulary words from part 2 of the novel.

Review Chapters 9-12 and choose two unknown words. Define those words in your Vocabulary Journal and indicate what strategies you used to determine their meanings.