Andy’s Secret Ingredient

Vocabulary

Unfamiliar words

When you read, you may come across a word you don’t know. To figure out it’s meaning, look for clues in the words and sentences around it. A clue might be a specific detail near the unknown word.

In the passage on the next slide, notice how the word clenched is described with details in the same sentence.

Unusual Foods p. 636

Today at lunch, we discussed the essay we have to write about unusual foods. While comparing ideas, we noticed some unusual foods right in front of us. Rick was eating sunflower seeds and carrots. He said that in primitive times, people lived on seeds and roots. Jenny’s lunch was eggs and dandelions. She found the recipe for it in a flyer at the health food store. She made it by putting grease in a pan and adding eggs, cornmeal, and chopped dandelions. She offered me some, but I clenched my teeth and wouldn’t open my mouth. Although I didn’t taste anyone’s food, I did get some ideas for my essay.

clenched (verb)

To grasp firmly

I clenched the bat firmly in my hands and took a swing.

cornmeal (noun)

Coarsely ground dried corn

My mom used cornmeal to make delicious, warm cornbread.

flyer ( noun)

A small notice or advertisement, usually printed on one page, that is to be handed out to people.

I was so excited when I saw a flyer advertising the new Iphone.

comparing ( verb)

To find out how persons or things are alike and how they are different.

While comparing my answers to my teacher’s, I found I had made a mistake.

primitive (adj)

Of or about early times, of long ago.

Primitive people often lived in caves.

essay (noun)

A short written composition

My teacher asked us to write a 200 word essay about our summer vacation.

grease (noun)

Soft, melted animal fat used in cooking.

The directions on the brownie mix said to grease the pan, then spread the mixture in the pan.