Rewrite a Scene Twice With Opposite Connotations
Written by Adi Ackerman, Head Teacher
"Rewrite a Scene Twice With Opposite Connotations" 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.
2 pages in this set
8th grade reading worksheet: rewrite a neutral scene about new neighbor Mr. Adeyemi twice, once positive and once negative. 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 rewrite a neutral paragraph so readers feel positive about a new neighbor.
- Students will rewrite the same paragraph with negative synonyms from the word bank.
- Students will see how swapping words like historic and decrepit changes a reader's view.
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
Browse the grade, subject, and topic this belongs to.
FAQ
How do I use this connotation vs denotation 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 does this worksheet teach?
⌄
Rewrite a neutral scene about new neighbor Mr. Adeyemi twice, once positive and once negative. The directions on the page read: Rewrite the paragraph so readers feel positive about Mr. Adeyemi. Replace each bold word with its positive synonym from the word bank, and underline each word you changed. An answer key is included.
Can I use this connotation vs denotation worksheet for homeschool or classroom?
⌄
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?
⌄
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?
⌄
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?
⌄
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.
Ratings & Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share what you think.
Reviews are for ClassWeekly members.
Make a Request
Spotted something to fix, or want a worksheet we don't have yet? Tell us and we'll make it.
Worksheet Details
| Grade | 8th Grade |
| Subject | Reading |
| Topic | Shades of Meaning |
| Standard | L.8.5.C |
| Pages | 2 pages |
| Difficulty | Medium |
What is ClassWeekly?
ClassWeekly offers free worksheets and printable learning resources for kids, from preschool up. All worksheets are aligned to Common Core, NGSS, and C3 Framework standards and designed by educators. Become a member to access the full library and download unlimited PDFs.