HSPT Language Skills

Master the essential language skills needed to succeed on the HSPT, including grammar, vocabulary, punctuation, and sentence structure.

Grammar FundamentalsVocabulary BuildingPunctuation and Capitalization
Sentence Structure and TypesCommon Usage ErrorsAnalogies and Relationships
Effective CommunicationReading ComprehensionWriting for Different Purposes
Time Management on the HSPTElimination and Guessing TechniquesCareful Reading and Double-Checking
Grammar FundamentalsVocabulary BuildingPunctuation and Capi...Sentence Structure a...Common Usage ErrorsAnalogies and Relati...Effective Communicat...Reading Comprehensio...Writing for Differen...Time Management on t...Elimination and Gues...Careful Reading and ...
Basic Concepts

Vocabulary Building

Growing Your Word Power

A strong vocabulary helps you understand reading passages and express yourself more precisely. The HSPT tests your knowledge of word meanings and your ability to use context clues.

Context Clues

When you don’t know a word, look at the words around it for hints. Context clues can be:

  • Definitions: The word is explained in the sentence.
  • Synonyms: Similar words are used.
  • Antonyms: Opposite words are used.
  • Examples: The word is shown in action.

Word Roots, Prefixes, and Suffixes

Learning common roots, prefixes, and suffixes can help you figure out unfamiliar words.

  • Prefix "un-" means "not" (unhappy = not happy).
  • Suffix "-ful" means "full of" (joyful = full of joy).

Practice Makes Perfect

  • Read a variety of books and articles.
  • Keep a personal word journal.

Examples

  • The benevolent teacher donated books to the library.

  • Despite the inclement weather, the game continued.

In a Nutshell

A bigger vocabulary helps you read, write, and speak more effectively.

Key Terms

Context Clues
Hints in a sentence that help you figure out the meaning of an unfamiliar word.
Prefix
A group of letters added to the beginning of a word to change its meaning.
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Punctuation and Capitalization