Same or Opposite?
Read each pair of words. Circle = if they mean the same. Circle ↔ if they are opposites.
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This is sheet #62824601.
How to do it
- Read both words.
- Decide if they mean the same thing or the opposite.
- Circle the = sign for same or the ↔ sign for opposite.
Teaching tip
Say a quick sentence with each word if you're not sure. This sheet is aligned with Common Core L.2.5.
About this worksheet
Ten mixed word pairs, half synonyms and half antonyms, in a different order each time. Includes an answer key.
What kids practice
Synonyms are words that mean almost the same thing, like big and large. Antonyms are words that mean the opposite, like hot and cold. Shades of meaning are words that are alike but stronger or weaker, like warm, hot and boiling. Knowing these word relationships helps kids understand what they read, explain their ideas, and pick the best word when they talk and write. In 2nd grade, kids also start comparing how strong similar words are (aligned with Common Core L.2.5b).
Watch for
- Thinking synonyms always mean exactly the same thing. Huge is bigger than big, even though both mean large.
- Mixing up synonyms and antonyms. Ask, "Do these words mean the same thing or the opposite?"
- Picking a synonym that doesn't fit the sentence. Always read the sentence again with the new word in it.
- Ordering shades of meaning backwards. Ask the question first, like "How hot?", then start with the weakest word.
It's free to print, with an answer key. See the full same and opposite words guide for 2nd grade.
More sheets in this set
- See it all
1. Same and Opposite ChartSynonyms and antonyms on one page, with picture examples, 16 word pairs, and a shades-of-meaning bar (warm, hot, boiling). 
2. Match the SynonymsSix synonym pairs to match with lines, plus two Swap It! sentences where kids write a synonym on big writing lines. Includes an answer key.
3. Write the OppositeEight words with a word bank of their opposites and big writing lines. Includes an answer key.
5. Shades of MeaningSix groups of three words, like warm, hot and boiling, with a question that tells kids what is changing (How hot? How loud?). Includes an answer key.