5th Grade Vocabulary Words: Meanings & Practice

watch or examine carefully to notice what happens.

Example We observe the birds from the window so we do not frighten them.

one small part of a larger picture, description, or idea.

Example The muddy paw print was a detail that helped us find the missing dog.

tell what something is like using words.

Example Describe the shell so your partner can draw it without seeing it.

look at things together to find similarities and differences.

Example Compare the two maps to see which paths appear on both.

show how things are different.

Example Contrast the smooth surface of the pebble with the rough bark of the tree.

alike in some ways but not necessarily exactly the same.

Example The twins wore similar jackets, but one had a hood.

clearly different or separate.

Example The two bells made distinct sounds, so we could tell them apart.

so clear or full of detail that it is easy to picture.

Example Her vivid description of the storm helped us imagine the rattling windows.

an explanation for why something happens or why someone makes a choice.

Example The icy path was our reason for choosing a different way home.

facts or information that help show whether an idea is true.

Example The empty seed packet was evidence that someone had planted the flower bed.

decide what is likely to be true after thinking about information.

Example From the wet playground and dripping trees, we conclude that it rained overnight.

say what you think will happen using what you know.

Example After watching the dark clouds gather, we predict that the picnic may need to move indoors.

make an idea or event clear by giving details or reasons.

Example Please explain how the rules help everyone take a fair turn.

tell the main ideas without all the small details.

Example Summarize the chapter in two sentences before telling me your favorite part.

the order in which events or steps happen.

Example The pictures show the sequence from planting a seed to picking a bean.

something that happens because of an action or event.

Example One result of our cleanup was a playground with fewer pieces of litter.

a way of thinking about or dealing with a task.

Example Drawing a picture was a useful approach to solving the word problem.

a particular way of doing something.

Example Our method for measuring the desk used a ruler and a paper record.

an effort to do something.

Example On her third attempt, Ava balanced the paper tower without holding it.

something that gets in the way of progress.

Example A fallen branch was an obstacle on the bicycle path.

a way to solve a problem.

Example Sharing the supplies was a solution to the shortage of markers.

change something to make it fit or work better.

Example We adjust the straps until the backpack rests comfortably.

give something or do something that helps a shared effort.

Example Each student can contribute an idea for the class display.

work with others toward a shared goal.

Example The partners cooperate by taking turns measuring and recording.