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Chapter Two
Language Focus: Connotation/Denotation
Denotation is the literal dictionary definition of a word. Many words can have the
same denotation, or definition, but words also have a connotation: an emotional
feeling about the word. For example: the words thin, skinny, trim, emaciated,
slender, lanky and slim all have the same dictionary definition: of limited size; of
slight consistency. However, would you rather be referred to as slender or thin, or
emaciated and lanky? The words slender and slim have a positive connotation; the
words emaciated and lanky have a negative connotation. In other words, we would
probably want to be referred to as slender, slim, or even trim.
Our goal as writers is to explore the use of connotation to enhance our writing. For
example, rather than stating, “Kelli walked throughout the room, talking to her
guests.” We can improve the sentence with words with the same denotative
meaning, but more accurate or illustrative connotative meaning, such as “Kelli
sauntered throughout the room, gossiping to her guests.” Clearly, the second
sentence gives the reader a more accurate and detailed description of Kelli’s actions.
Part A
Directions: In each sentence, the vocabulary word from Chapter Two has been
underlined. Below the sentence are four choices, each with the same denotation as
the vocabulary word. Using the context of the sentence, choose the best word that
matches the connotation of the vocabulary word in its context. Write the correct letter
on the line provided. An example has been done for you.
C
EX. The energetic puppies capered through the field.
a. walked
b. moved
c. frolicked
d. jumped
______ 1. In Russia, there were many disciples interested in the concept of
Communism.
a.
groupies
b. pupils
c. fans
d. followers
______ 2. Squealer expounded the benefits of having good leadership.
a. explained
b. reasoned
c. endorsed
d. interpreted
______ 3. When they realized they had won the battle, the animals gamboled
through the land they now claimed as their own.
a.
went
b. moved
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______ 4. To show their support, the cattle began lowing loudly.
a. whispering
b. talking
c. sounding
d. mooing
______ 5. Mr. Jones was known for maltreating the animals on his farm.
a. misusing
b. slaughtering
c. mistreating
d. destroying
______ 6. Any questioning or doubt whether the animals could run their own land
and take care of themselves was quickly reproached.
a. shouted at
b. criticized
c. addressed
d. spoken to
______ 7. When Boxer was young, he was vivacious, strong, and full of promise.
a. operational
b. spirited
c. living
d. bubbly
Part B
Directions: For each of the vocabulary words from Chapter Two, find a word with
the opposite (or nearly opposite) connotation of the vocabulary word. For b., explain
how the vocabulary word differs from the word you chose. An example has been
done for you.
Ex. capered
1. Word with opposite (or nearly opposite) connotation: relaxed
2. Explanation: If a group of puppies capered around, it means that they played
and frolicked playfully; a group of puppies who relaxed laid around lazily.
1. disciples
a. Word with opposite (or nearly opposite) connotation:
b. Explanation:
2. expounded
a. Word with opposite (or nearly opposite) connotation:
b. Explanation:
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Chapter Three
Language Focus: Vocabulary in Context
Directions: Answer the following questions regarding the vocabulary from Chapter
Three using complete sentences for part a. Then using the vocabulary word, explain
in part b. the reasoning behind your choice. An example has been done for you.
Ex. What implements might a teacher use?
a. Answer: Some of the implements a teacher might use are chalk, a chalkboard,
whiteboard markers, a whiteboard, pencils, a red pen, paper, and a copy
machine.
b. Explanation: Implements are tools or equipment.
1. When might it be to your benefit to be obstinate?
a. Answer:
b. Explanation:
2. What might you have to do in order to understand someone’s cryptic remarks?
a. Answer:
b. Explanation:
3. What is the most important maxim of your life?
a. Answer:
b. Explanation:
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4. How can a friend with a parasitical personality affect your relationship?
a. Answer:
b. Explanation:
5. Describe a time when you were indefatigable in pursuing a goal.
a. Answer:
b. Explanation:
6. How might a person behave who has an acute need for attention?
a. Answer:
b. Explanation:
7. Why do many people make resolutions at the beginning of each year?
a. Answer:
b. Explanation:
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Animal Farm Literature Guide
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