SUBJECT
Reading and Language Arts, Vocabulary, Writing Process, Descriptive Essay, Teacher Tips and Strategies

GRADE
6-8

DURATION
5 Class Periods

Connotation: Effective Word Choice

By Cate Sanazaro

This unit, designed to promote effective word choice, begins with a fun and exciting introduction of connotation through an examination of sports team names. After examining how word choice influences meaning, students will create and revise writing for vivid language.

OBJECTIVE
Students will:

Identify and examine the concept of connotation.
Differentiate between the connotative and denotative meaning of words.
Interpret the connotative power of words.
Write vivid, meaningful language.
Demonstrate knowledge and control of the connotative power of words.
Create a visual presentation to illustrate word power.
Prepare and perform an oral presentation of completed work.

LESSONS FOR THIS UNIT
Lesson 1: What's In a Name?
Lesson 2: Lions, Tigers, and Slugs? Oh, My!
Lesson 3: Hold the Presses!: Revising for Connotation

REPRODUCIBLES
Team Names Connotation Activities (PDF)
Connotation Revision Article (PDF)

CULMINATING ACTIVITY

Students will work with partners throughout the project, and will present their Sports Team posters to the class.

SUPPORTING BOOKS

Books for Teaching Word Choice

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ARTICLE	Books for Teaching Word Choice Books that provide great teacher resources for bringing the power of word choice into your classroom.

LESSON PLAN	Hold the Presses!: Revising for Connotation Students consider use vivid language with appropriate connotation to enhance their writing.

ONLINE ACTIVITY	Home \| Write It Write It is the premiere site for kids' and teens' writing instruction and online publishing. In genres like poetry, essays, short fiction,...