Comprehension, Paragraphs and Letters: Class 4 Study Guide
Good comprehension and good writing use the same skills: noticing details and organising ideas.
For comprehension, read the passage twice. First read for the main idea; then read for details. Underline names, places and numbers. Answer each question in a complete sentence, using words from the passage. Questions come in three types: direct (the answer is in the text), inference (you work it out from clues) and vocabulary (what a word means).
A good paragraph has a topic sentence that states the main idea, supporting sentences with details or examples, and a closing sentence.
Writing a paragraph
Example topic: 'My favourite festival'. Diwali is my favourite festival. We light diyas and make rangoli at the door. My family shares sweets and visits relatives. I like it best because everyone is happy and together.
| Part | Purpose | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Topic sentence | Names the idea | Diwali is my favourite festival. |
| Supporting sentences | Details | We light diyas and make rangoli. |
| Closing sentence | Wraps up | I like it because everyone is together. |
Writing a letter
An informal letter has the sender's address and date, a greeting (Dear Meera,), a body in short paragraphs and a closing (Your friend, Rohan). An email has a subject line and a greeting. Use polite, clear language, and check spelling and punctuation. Say hello, give your news, ask a question and say goodbye.
Dear Meera,
Say why you are writing.
Share your news.
Your friend, Rohan
Vocabulary in context
When a word is new, look at the sentence around it. The old man was weary after the long walk. The words 'after the long walk' suggest he was tired. Use a dictionary to check, and write the word in a sentence of your own.
Worked examples and common mistakes
Direct question: Where did Rohan go? (Answer is stated.) Inference: Why was Rohan tired? (Because he walked a long way.) Common mistakes: copying the whole passage, leaving out the greeting or closing of a letter and writing one long block with no topic sentence. Plan before you write and check your work.
Check your understanding: model answers
1. Example: My school is a happy place where I learn and play. 2. Dear Asha, … Your friend, Neel. 3. Example: The weary traveller sat down to rest.
✨ Key Takeaways
- Read twice and answer in sentences.
- A paragraph has a topic sentence, details and a closing sentence.
- A letter has a greeting, body and closing.
- Use context to work out new words.
💬 Questions for Discussion & Reflection
- Write a topic sentence about your school.
- Write the greeting and closing for a letter to a friend.
- Use 'weary' in a sentence.
Print lined paper for letter writing →