What are context clues?

Context clues refer to hints or information provided within the surrounding text that help readers understand unfamiliar words. When readers encounter a word they do not know, they can often deduce its meaning by looking at the words and sentences around it. Context clues may manifest in various forms, such as definitions, examples, synonyms, antonyms, or descriptions that appear nearby. This skill is essential for developing vocabulary and enhancing comprehension, as it allows readers to glean meaning without constantly relying on a dictionary.

The other options do not capture the essence of context clues accurately. For instance, examples of text structures focus on the organizational patterns within a text, common phrases in narratives pertain to language or stylistic elements, and instructions for teaching reading comprehension relate to pedagogical strategies rather than the immediate cues found in a given text. Thus, the option indicating hints in surrounding text best identifies the function and purpose of context clues in reading.