Question

read the sentence and study the table.
when raj removed the clocks cover, a tiny spring came loose from the mechanism.

meanings of the word spring

1. n., the season following winter
2. n., a piece of coiled metal
3. n., a natural source of water
4. v., to bounce, jump, or leap

use the drop-down menus to answer the questions.
what is the meaning of spring as it is used in the sentence?
which word provides a context clue that supports your answer?

Explanation:

Analyze the meaning of "spring" in the sentence

The sentence states: "When Raj removed the clock's cover, a tiny spring came loose from the mechanism."
In this context, "spring" refers to a mechanical component inside a clock. Looking at the provided table of meanings:

• Definition 1: "the season following winter" (incorrect context)
• Definition 2: "a piece of coiled metal" (correct context, as clocks contain mechanical coiled metal springs)
• Definition 3: "a natural source of water" (incorrect context)
• Definition 4: "to bounce, jump, or leap" (incorrect part of speech and context)

Therefore, the meaning of "spring" is "a piece of coiled metal".

Identify the supporting context clue

The sentence contains clues that point to a mechanical device: "clock's", "cover", and "mechanism".
Among these, "mechanism" directly indicates a mechanical system of parts working together, which supports the definition of a spring as a mechanical "piece of coiled metal".

Answer:

Question 1

What is the meaning of spring as it is used in the sentence? <blank>a piece of coiled metal</blank>

Question 2

Which word provides a context clue that supports your answer? <blank>mechanism</blank>