Homographs Worksheets

Related ELA Standard: L.5.5.C

Core Standard
Answer Keys Here

Homographs are where the English language really goes off of the rails and really confuses non-native speakers. This is because you will have two different words that have the exact same spelling, but they mean something different entirely and in some cases, they have different pronunciation. Often the meanings of the homographs can be deciphered through the context that they are used in. Mastering the use of words that fall into this category is vital because it will lead to fluency in both written and spoken forms of language. I find that this is where most students stumble when reading aloud. I would encourage students when you come across this and express that this is a common pitfall of the English language. The worksheets in this collection will help students understand where homographs fall into the whole language skills section.

Homograph Worksheets To Print:

One Spelling Or More - Find those little guys in the sentences and underline them. Use the first example as blueprint to your work.

Write the Meaning - What does the underlined word mean? Write your explanation on the line that is provided.

Fill the Blank Space - Use the right word from the bank. You can cut and paste them, if you would rather do it that way.

Use These! - Use the eight words to fill ten blanks in the sentences. I would review the meaning of any word you are not sure of.

Making Sentences - Make the words and sentences flow like a symphony! In each sentence, use the word in a different way with a different meaning.

I Know It - In the sentences, fill in the blank spaces with a homograph from these circles.

What Does the Homograph Mean? - Write the meaning of the underlined homograph.

Homograph Exercises - Draw a line from the homograph to each box of sentences.

Determine the Homograph - Hints are at the bottom of the page. You can work off of all of those missing lettered words.

Homograph Boat - Think about what the homograph is and then complete the words.

Write Sentences with Homographs - Each homograph should have 2 sentences with each sentence containing a different meaning of the homograph. We provide you with example answers, but they will certainly vary.

Match It Up - Draw a line from the homograph to each box of sentences. I suggest that you use think arrows to help you.

Underline the Homographs - In the reading passage, identify and underline at least 5 different pairs of homographs.

Identifying the Homograph - After reading the meaning, underline the associated homograph in the sentence. The first sentence has been done for you.

Defect - 2 sentences per homograph with each of the 2 sentences using the homograph differently.

Pick One Version 1 - Choose the meaning of the word used in each sentence.

Pick One Version 2 - Some of these words have some ridiculous pronunciation keys. Just take your time with this worksheet.

Pick One Version 3 - The answer key is embedded in here. Read everything carefully because there is a good deal of text here.

Pick One Version 4 - Last which one is it activity for you to practice this skill and heighten your writing skills.

Homographs We Use Every Day That Trip Us Up


There are a few homographs that we use daily that have some many meanings that we take it for granted. The English language is one of the most difficult to learn because of this. We often overlook the significance of this. New English language learners, we feel your pain and can understand why you find it so difficult. There are a few words that are more difficult to learn on the written page, than when spoken. This is why many English language learners can be better understood in writing than in person.


There are words we "use" everyday that are homographs that we certainly take for granted. See I just did it! The word "use" is one of the most common homographs out there. It can be presented in a sentence where it means to take from over a finite amount of time. For example in the sentence: You can use my jersey for the next game. The word "use" can also mean to possess something to achieve a goal of some kind. For example in the sentence: What is the use of the plastic piece on the end of your shoelaces?


The word "live" is one of the sneakiest words in the dictionary that we use so often that we forget to count. It can mean to reside in a certain place. For example: Which house does Sam live in? It can also mean to take part in real-time. For example: I dislike watch pre-recorder football games. I only like to watch live games. It can also mean to remain alive. For example: The doctor diagnosed Stan to only live for another fifteen months.


How Do Authors Use Them?


When you see a homograph used in modern literature, it is often used in a cunning manner to add a little spark. They often are used to point out a pun or to make wisecrack at something or someone. When you read works aloud the clear difference or awkwardness of the word use is easy to hear or see. Most writers will avoid using them in works where they are sure it will be read aloud, such as in speeches or verbal instructions. One thing is for sure, they do add a bit of liveliness to work and often can stir up an audience and get them more involved or attached to an author. It is a polarizing literary device. Some people enjoy them, others cannot stand them and they are almost bothered by them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



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