ACTIVITY
3.6
Dangerous Diction
Learning Target
LEARNING STRATEGIES:
Graphic Organizer, Discussion
Groups
ACADEMIC VOCABULARY
A euphemism is an inoffensive
expression that is a substitute for
one that is considered too harsh
or blunt.
Euphemism
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Holocaust using new vocabulary words.
The Nazis deliberately used euphemisms to disguise the true nature of their
crimes. Euphemisms replace disturbing words with diction that has more positive
connotations.
1. Work with a small group to analyze how the Nazis manipulated language to
disguise the horror of their policies. Research the term euphemism and its use
in Nazi Germany. If doing an online search, use an effective search term to find
the true meanings of the terms below.
Denotation (Literal
Definition)
Meaning in Context of
the Holocaust
Analyze the Difference
in Connotation
Relocation
Disinfecting or Delousing
Centers
Camp
WORD
CONNECTIONS
Roots and Affixes
Root
2. To discuss the Holocaust, you will need to be familiar with Holocaust-related
diction. In your Literature Circle groups, use a dictionary or other resource to
find a definition or explanation for each of the terms in the list on the next page.
Euphemism contains the Greek
prefix eu-, meaning “well”
or “pleasing,” and the Greek
root -pheme-, which has the
meaning of “speak.” A person
who uses a euphemism speaks
with pleasing words.
178
SpringBoard® English Language Arts Grade 8
© 2014 College Board. All rights reserved.
The Final Solution
ACTIVITY 3.6
continued
Holocaust Vocabulary
Definition/Explanation
Anti-Semitism
Concentration Camp
Death Camp
Genocide
Gestapo
Holocaust
Nazi
Persecution
© 2014 College Board. All rights reserved.
Propaganda
SS (Schutzstaffel)
Star of David
Check Your Understanding
Use at least six new words to explain what you have learned about the Holocaust.
Read your explanation to a partner to practice fluency.
As you discover more vocabulary and euphemisms in your Holocaust narrative,
copy them down to share, define, and discuss with your class.
WORD
CO
CONNECTIONS
Roots and Affixes
Root
Genocide comes from the
Greek word genos, which
means “race” or “line of
descent.” The root -genoccurs in such words as gene,
genesis, and genus.
The suffix -cide forms nouns
with the meaning of “kill”
or “causing death,” as in
homicide and pesticide.
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