Rewrite a Paragraph by Changing Connotation
Written by Adi Ackerman, Head Teacher
"Rewrite a Paragraph by Changing Connotation" is written for 7th Grade (Ages 12-13), and it covers Common Core L.7.5.C. A 6th 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
7th grade reading worksheet: rewrite a neutral paragraph twice by changing six bold words to sound admiring and then critical. Answer key included. Part of our connotation vs denotation shades of meaning collection. Aligned to Common Core standards.
How do I use this worksheet?
Start with the sorting sheet, then move to headlines or travel writing. Use the key to check and discuss why a word feels positive or negative.
What students will practice
- Students will read a neutral paragraph with 6 bold words.
- Students will write an admiring word and a critical word for each bold word.
- Students will copy the paragraph twice and change only those 6 words.
Curriculum Links
Common Core State Standards
Language · 7th Grade
Standard: Distinguish among the connotations (associations) of words with similar denotations (definitions) (e.g., refined, respectful, polite, diplomatic, condescending).
View all L.7.5.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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Start with the sorting sheet, then move to headlines or travel writing. Use the key to check and discuss why a word feels positive or negative.
What does this worksheet teach?
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Rewrite a neutral paragraph twice by changing six bold words to sound admiring and then critical. Connotation is the feeling a word carries, so changing a few words can change how a reader feels about the very same subject. The directions on the page read: Read the neutral paragraph. For each bold word, write one word in the chart that keeps the basic meaning but sounds admiring, and one that sounds critical. 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 7th 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.
How many connotation worksheets are there?
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There are 8, and 7 have answer keys. One word study organizer has none.
What is the difference between connotation and denotation?
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Denotation is the dictionary meaning, and connotation is the feeling a word carries.
What texts do students use?
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They use short reviews, headline pairs, two town descriptions and a neutral paragraph written for ClassWeekly.
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Worksheet Details
| Grade | 7th Grade |
| Subject | Reading |
| Topic | Shades of Meaning |
| Standard | L.7.5.C |
| Pages | 2 pages |
| Difficulty | Medium |
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