Besides the dictionary definition, words also carry the added weight of meanings that are inferred or implied, meanings conferred on words, or connotations. To gain an understanding the importance of connotation, class members engage in a series of activities that ask them to consider how the positive and/or negative connotation of words can change the meaning of a passage.

Concepts

connotation, denotation, word choice, diction

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Additional Tags

english language arts

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Instructional Ideas

• Incorporate the lesson in a unit that uses Animal Farm as a core text and have readers consider the connotations that may have influence Orwell's choice of animals in his allegory
• Use a sine cosine wave graphic to demonstrate words with positive and negative connotations

Classroom Considerations

• Requires individual copies of the student handout
• Remind pupils that some words carry connotations not appropriate for the classroom

Pros

• The resource includes a carefully scaffolded plan

Cons

• None

Common Core

L.11-12.3.a L.11-12.4.a