What to Do with an Unknown Word | Reading Comprehension | Khan Academy Kids

Alphabets Sounds Video

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In this lesson, students learn effective strategies for understanding new words they encounter while reading. The steps include sounding out the word, looking for contextual clues in nearby pictures and text, and asking a grown-up for assistance if needed. By following these steps, learners can turn the challenge of unfamiliar vocabulary into an enjoyable and educational experience.
  1. What is one way you can sound out a new word you don’t know?
  2. How can pictures help you understand what a new word means?
  3. Who can you ask for help if you still don’t understand a word?

Learning New Words: A Fun Adventure!

Oh no, another word I don’t know! Does this happen to you a lot when you’re reading? Don’t worry, it’s completely normal. Let me show you what I do when I come across a new word.

Step 1: Sound It Out

First, try to sound out the word. For example, if you see the word “chore,” you can break it down into sounds: CH-ore. This can help you get a better idea of how the word is pronounced.

Step 2: Look at the Pictures

Next, check out any pictures nearby for clues. If you see someone cleaning dishes, watering plants, or sweeping, these activities might give you a hint about what the word means. Maybe “chores” are things we do to keep our house looking nice!

Step 3: Read the Text for Clues

Look at the sentences around the word for more hints. If it says “every week,” it might mean that chores are things we do regularly, not just once.

Step 4: Ask a Grown-Up

If you’re still unsure, it’s okay to ask a grown-up for help. They can explain that chores are tasks we do to keep our home running smoothly, like washing dishes or watering plants.

Thanks to these steps, I learned a new word today! Remember, learning new words can be a fun adventure, and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.

  • Can you think of a time when you learned a new word? How did you figure out what it meant, and who helped you?
  • What are some chores you do at home? How do you feel when you do them, and do you have a favorite chore?
  • Imagine you found a word you don’t know in a book. What would you do first to try and understand it? Why do you think it’s important to learn new words?
  1. Word Detective Game: Become a word detective! Choose a book or a magazine and find three new words. Try to sound them out and look at any pictures nearby for clues. Write down what you think each word means. Then, ask a grown-up if you guessed correctly. This will help you practice the steps you learned in the lesson.

  2. Picture Clue Hunt: Go on a picture clue hunt around your house. Find five items and draw a picture of each one. Then, write a new word that describes each item. For example, if you draw a picture of a broom, you might write the word “sweep.” Share your drawings and words with a friend or family member and explain why you chose those words.

  3. Weekly Chore Chart: Create a weekly chore chart with your family. List different chores you can do each day, like “water plants” or “sweep the floor.” Use the chart to practice reading and understanding the word “chore” and its meaning. At the end of the week, talk about which chores were your favorite and why.

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