Certification Examinations for Oklahoma Educators (CEOE) Practice Exam

What method would best promote comprehension of unfamiliar words and phrases among third-grade students reading a tall tale?

1. Suggesting that students look up the meaning of confusing terms in a dictionary

2. Teaching students how to apply context clues to determine figurative meaning

3. Instructing students in the use of semantic organizers to develop the meaning of unusual language

4. Showing students the illustrations in the story for visual clues to support meaning

The correct answer is: Instructing students in the use of semantic organizers to develop the meaning of unusual language

Using semantic organizers is an effective method for promoting comprehension of unfamiliar words and phrases, especially in the context of a tall tale, which often employs unique and imaginative language. Semantic organizers help students visually map out the meanings of words and their relationships to one another, which can be particularly beneficial when dealing with figurative language and the colorful vocabulary typically found in tall tales. By applying this approach, third graders can break down complex phrases and unfamiliar terms into more manageable parts, connecting them to existing knowledge and enhancing their understanding. This method not only aids in comprehension but also encourages active engagement with the text as students construct meaning through visualization and categorization. In contrast, relying solely on a dictionary or context clues may not equip students with the deeper understanding of figurative language that tall tales often require, while focusing on illustrations can provide support but may not convey the full meaning of the text independently. Thus, using semantic organizers provides a more comprehensive strategy for developing students' vocabulary and comprehension skills in this literary context.