In what word-learning strategy is Ms. Donnelly engaging when she predicts the word using context clues?

Ms. Donnelly is engaging in a strategy that involves predicting the meaning of a word based on the surrounding context. This technique is often referred to as contextual inference, where learners use clues from the text to infer the meaning of unfamiliar words. By analyzing nearby words, sentences, or the overall theme of the passage, students can make educated guesses about the definition of a new word without relying solely on a dictionary.

The emphasis on using context clues is a critical skill in developing vocabulary because it encourages learners to think critically about language and enhances their reading comprehension. This strategy is particularly useful because it allows students to deepen their understanding of language and improve their ability to decipher unfamiliar words as they encounter them in various texts.