Grading essays after reading a novel written by a lyrical master (think Nabokov, Morrison, Chabon) is a deflating experience. Why can’t your student’s display the same skill in diction as your favorite writers? Because you did not use this activity before they submitted their final drafts. Implement this activity and make your writers aware that there is always a better word to use that can capture the correct tone, detail, or mood present in their writing constructions. The included worksheet displays diction examples with space for students to practice options of their own choice.