Create: Write a Paragraph with Word Clues

Question

Level 1: To show your mastery of the unit goals, write a paragraph about any topic that interests you. Your paragraph should be at least three sentences long and should include at least two words that readers may not be familiar with. Be sure your paragraph includes:

one context clue for an unfamiliar word
one unfamiliar word with an affix or root that readers can use to determine the word’s meaning
Underline the context clue and write what kind of clue it is in the margin. Highlight the unfamiliar word that has an affix or root. In the margin, identify the affix or root and its meaning.

Level 2: To show your mastery of the unit goals, write a paragraph about any topic that interests you. Your paragraph should be at least four or five sentences long and should include at least three words that readers may not be familiar with. Be sure your paragraph includes:

two different kinds of context clues for your unfamiliar words
a word with one or more affixes and/or a root that readers can use to determine the word’s meaning
Underline the context clues and identify what kinds of clues they are in the margin. Highlight the word with affixes or a root. In the margin, identify the affix(es) and root and their meaning.

Answer 1

Level 2 Paragraph:

In the verdant landscape of the Amazon rainforest, a multitude of species thrive, each exhibiting unique adaptations that help them survive in this rich ecosystem. Among the towering trees and dense foliage, the biodiversity—or variety of life—offers a glimpse into the intricate relationship between organisms and their habitat. This interdependence means that each creature, from the tiniest insect to the largest mammal, relies on one another for sustenance and shelter. However, recent deforestation has jeopardized the delicate balance, threatening countless species with extinction and altering the overall health of the environment. The ecosystem is a dynamic and interconnected web where disruption in one area can have profound effects elsewhere.

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Margin Notes:

1. Context Clue for "multitude": "a multitude of species" (example clue)
   • Type: Example clue
2. Context Clue for "biodiversity": "or variety of life" (definition clue)
   • Type: Definition clue
3. Highlight: interdependence
   • Affix/Root: "inter-" (means between) + "depend" (rely)
4. Highlight: deforestation
   • Affix/Root: "de-" (removal or reversal) + "forest" (woods)
5. Highlight: ecosystem
   • Affix/Root: "eco-" (relating to the environment) + "system" (a set of connected things)