SSAT Middle Level Reading

A subject designed to help students master reading comprehension skills needed for the SSAT Middle Level test.

Understanding Main Ideas and DetailsMaking InferencesUnderstanding Vocabulary in Context
Analyzing Author's Purpose and ToneComparing and Contrasting InformationRecognizing Literary Devices
Reading for Everyday LifeResearch and Information GatheringCommunicating with Others
Active Reading TechniquesTime Management and Skimming
Understanding Main I...Making InferencesUnderstanding Vocabu...Analyzing Author's P...Comparing and Contra...Recognizing Literary...Reading for Everyday...Research and Informa...Communicating with O...Active Reading Techn...Time Management and ...
Basic Concepts

Understanding Vocabulary in Context

Figuring Out Word Meanings

You might not know every word in a passage, but that's okay! You can often figure out what a word means by looking at the words and sentences around it.

Clues to Look For

  • Synonyms or explanations nearby
  • Contrasting words (like "but," "however")
  • Examples that show the word in action

Why It Matters

Understanding vocabulary in context lets you keep reading without stopping to look up every word.

Real-World Connection

This skill helps you tackle new words in books, on websites, or even in conversations!

Examples

  • The word 'reluctant' in 'He was reluctant to leave the party, but eventually said goodbye' means he didn't want to leave.

  • 'The arid desert was dry and lifeless'—arid means dry.

In a Nutshell

Learn to guess the meaning of new words by using clues in the passage.

Key Terms

Context Clues
Hints in the text that help you figure out the meaning of a word.
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Analyzing Author's Purpose and Tone
Understanding Vocabulary in Context - SSAT Middle Level Reading Content | Practice Hub