Describe a strategy for building vocabulary.

Using contextual clues to infer the meaning of unfamiliar words is an effective strategy for building vocabulary because it encourages learners to engage deeply with the text. When readers encounter new words, they can use surrounding words, phrases, or sentences—contextual clues—to deduce the meaning rather than relying solely on rote memorization. This method not only helps learners understand the new word in that specific instance but also strengthens their ability to apply similar inference skills to other texts in the future.

Additionally, this strategy fosters critical thinking, as students analyze how words fit into the overall meaning of passages. It creates a richer understanding of language, allowing for a more organic and meaningful vocabulary expansion compared to methods that involve memorization without context or a limited focus on certain types of texts.