Multiple Meaning Words

Learning Objectives

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.4.A: Use sentence-level context as a clue to the meaning of a multiple-meaning word.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.4.B: Determine the meaning of a word with multiple meanings by using knowledge of its various meanings and context clues.

I Can Statements

• I can identify different meanings of a word depending on the context.
• I can use clues around a word in a sentence to figure out which meaning fits best.

Materials

• Whiteboard and markers
• Index cards with sentences using “bat,” “box,” and “shake” in different meanings
• Worksheets with sentences and space to explain the meaning
• Visual aids (pictures of a bat animal and bat used in baseball; picture of a box and a boxing glove; picture of a person shaking hands and a bottle being shaken)

Lesson Outline (10 minutes)

I Do (3 minutes)

• Objective: Model the process of using context clues to determine word meaning.
• Display the word bat on the board.
• Read aloud two sentences:
  1. "The bat flew out of the cave at dusk."
  2. "He swung the bat and hit the ball."
• Think aloud: Point to the clues in the sentences that tell you which meaning is right. ("Flew out of the cave" means an animal. "Swung the bat" means a sports tool.)
• Show corresponding pictures to visually reinforce meanings.
• Use the "I can..." phrase:
  • I can listen for clues in the sentence to understand which meaning of “bat” someone is using.

We Do (3 minutes)

• Objective: Partner practice with guided support.
• Present the word box with two sentences:
  1. "She put the toys inside a box."
  2. "They watched the box at the fight match."
• Ask: “What does box mean in this sentence? What clues helped you decide?”
• Guide students to notice “put toys inside” means container, and “fight match” means the sport boxing.
• Use visuals and underline key clue words together.
• Repeat with the word shake using two sentences:
  1. "Please shake the bottle before opening it."
  2. "Let’s shake hands to greet each other."
• Highlight clues and meanings with student input.
• Use "We can..." phrase:
  • We can work together to find the clues and explain the meanings of words.

You Do (4 minutes)

• Objective: Independent practice using context clues for meaning.
• Hand out a worksheet with three short sentences for each word (bat, box, shake) where students determine the meaning based on context. Example sentences:
  • "The bat slept during the day."
  • "He wore boxing gloves in the box." (Expected answer: boxing ring)
  • "The dog’s tail starts to shake when happy."
• Students circle the correct meaning and write one clue that helped them.
• Circulate and support diverse learners by reading sentences aloud or using visual cues.

Success Criteria

• I can explain at least two meanings of a word in different sentences.
• I can identify clues in the sentence and use them to choose the correct meaning.
• I can write or share clues that helped me understand the word.

Differentiation Strategies

• For learners who need extra support: Provide picture clues or simplify sentences, pair with a peer, or allow verbal explanation instead of writing.
• For English Language Learners: Teach vocabulary separately first, use visuals extensively, and model sentence reading clearly.
• For students needing challenge: Have them think of another sentence for each word with a different meaning or find new multiple meaning words in a book or around the classroom.

Extension Activities

• Create a short comic strip or story using two or more meanings of one of the multiple meaning words (bat, box, shake).
• Conduct a "Multiple Meaning Word Hunt" in a book or classroom reading material — find words that have multiple meanings and explain them with context clues.
• Use a digital storytelling app or recording device for students to narrate their comic or word hunts, enhancing tech integration.

This 10-minute lesson balances direct instruction, guided collaboration, and independent practice, ensuring all students experience success while mastering the Common Core goal of using context clues for vocabulary.