How do you use context clues to infer the author's tone and purpose?

1 Definition clues

Definition clues are when the author explicitly defines a word or concept in the text. For example, if the author writes "a pandemic is a widespread outbreak of a disease that affects many people across the world", they are giving you a definition clue for the word pandemic. Definition clues help you understand the main idea and the key terms of the text. They also show you the author's level of knowledge and expertise on the topic.

2 Example clues

Example clues are when the author provides specific examples to illustrate a point or support an argument. For example, if the author writes "some of the benefits of meditation include reduced stress, improved focus, and enhanced well-being", they are giving you example clues for the benefits of meditation. Example clues help you grasp the details and the evidence of the text. They also show you the author's tone and purpose, whether they are informative, persuasive, or entertaining.

3 Contrast clues

Contrast clues are when the author compares or contrasts two or more things in the text. For example, if the author writes "unlike dogs, cats are independent and aloof animals that do not need much attention or affection", they are giving you contrast clues for the differences between dogs and cats. Contrast clues help you identify the similarities and differences between the ideas or concepts in the text. They also show you the author's attitude and perspective, whether they are positive, negative, or neutral.

4 Inference clues

Inference clues are when the author implies or suggests something without stating it directly. For example, if the author writes "she smiled politely, but her eyes were cold and distant", they are giving you inference clues for her feelings and thoughts. Inference clues require you to use your own logic and background knowledge to draw conclusions from the text. They also show you the author's subtlety and creativity, whether they are clear, vague, or ironic.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?