Here are some strategies to tell homographs apart.
Context
Consider the context in which the word is used. The surrounding words, the overall sentence, and the broader context can provide clues about the intended meaning of the homograph.
Example: "The bow of the ship pointed east." vs. "She tied a bow on the gift."
Pronunciation
Some homographs have different pronunciations based on their meanings. Pay attention to how people pronounce the word in a sentence to determine its intended meaning.
Example: "Tear" (to rip) is pronounced like "tair," while "Tear" (a drop from the eye) is pronounced like "teer."
Part of speech
Consider the part of speech of the homograph. Words that share the same spelling but function as different parts of speech are often homographs.
Example: "Lead" (to guide) is a verb, while "Lead" (a heavy metal) is a noun.
Word origin
Understanding the origin of the words can sometimes help in distinguishing homographs. Words with different origins but the same spelling may have distinct meanings.
Example: "Bass" (a type of fish) is pronounced like "bass," while "Bass" (the lowest male singing voice) is pronounced like "base."
Definitions
Refer to dictionaries or other reliable sources to check the definitions of the homographs. Understanding the precise meanings can help you use the correct word in the right context.
Example: "Tire" (to exhaust) vs. "Tire" (a rubber covering on a wheel).
Common usage
Be aware of how these words are commonly used in everyday language. Often, one meaning of a homograph is more common than the other.
Example: "Row" (a noisy argument) vs. "Row" (a line of things).
Listening skills
Developing strong listening skills can help you discern the correct homograph in spoken language, especially in situations where the spelling isn't evident.
Practice
Regular practice with homographs through reading and writing can improve your child’s ability to use them correctly. Exercises or quizzes focused on homographs can be helpful.
Worksheets
We have sets of worksheets for students to practice putting homographs in sentences and finding the definitions of homographs.
Homograph words in sentences
Students are provided with two sentences that use the same spelled word with two different meanings. They are asked to write the appropriate words in the sentences.
Homograph definitions
Students are asked to link definitions to homograph words in these worksheets.
