Pick the Word a Speechwriter Would Use
Written by Adi Ackerman, Head Teacher
"Pick the Word a Speechwriter Would Use" is written for 8th Grade (Ages 13-14), and it covers Common Core L.8.5.C. A 7th grader who is already steady on shades of meaning can use it too, and an older student can use it as a short review.
8th grade reading worksheet: circle the more positive word in graduation speech lines, such as steadfast or inflexible. Answer key included. Part of our connotation vs denotation shades of meaning collection. Aligned to Common Core standards.
How do I use this worksheet?
Begin with the sports commentary sheet, which shows connotation through two voices. Save the two-version rewrite for last so students can apply what they practiced.
What students will practice
- Students will choose the word with the more positive connotation in lines from a graduation speech.
- Students will compare pairs such as adaptable and fickle or ambitious and power-hungry.
- Students will explain how the feelings of three word pairs differ.
Curriculum Links
Common Core State Standards
Language · 8th Grade
Standard: Distinguish among the connotations (associations) of words with similar denotations (definitions) (e.g., bullheaded, willful, firm, persistent, resolute).
View all L.8.5.C worksheets →Find this in the curriculum
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FAQ
How do I use this connotation vs denotation worksheet?
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Begin with the sports commentary sheet, which shows connotation through two voices. Save the two-version rewrite for last so students can apply what they practiced.
What does this worksheet teach?
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Circle the more positive word in graduation speech lines, such as steadfast or inflexible. The directions on the page read: These sentences come from a graduation speech. Circle the word in parentheses with the more positive connotation. Then, for items 3, 7 and 10, explain on the line how the feelings of the two words differ. An answer key is included.
Can I use this connotation vs denotation worksheet for homeschool or classroom?
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Yes, both. We made it for 8th grade shades of meaning, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.
Why do writers care about connotation?
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Words with the same meaning can leave readers with very different opinions. A commentator who calls a charge bold praises the player, while one who calls it reckless criticizes.
How can one paragraph feel positive or negative?
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Swap neutral words for synonyms with a stronger feeling. An old house can become historic or decrepit, and a quiet man can become reserved or something less kind.
What is a positive connotation?
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It is a feeling of approval a word carries. In an awards speech, assertive, inquisitive and candid praise the same behavior that pushy, nosy and blunt criticize.
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Worksheet Details
| Grade | 8th Grade |
| Subject | Reading |
| Topic | Shades of Meaning |
| Standard | L.8.5.C |
| Pages | 1 page |
| Difficulty | Medium |
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