Near Synonyms in Academic Writing
Written by Adi Ackerman, Head Teacher
"Near Synonyms in Academic Writing" 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.


7th grade reading worksheet: choose the best formal word, such as assert or demonstrate, in sentences from reports and essays. Answer key included. Part of our shades of meaning practice collection. Aligned to Common Core standards.
How do I use this worksheet?
Use the near synonym sheet to introduce the idea, then the scales for practice. Discuss why students ordered words the way they did.
What students will practice
- Students will read sentences that come from formal reports or essays.
- Students will circle the word that best fits the meaning and the formal tone.
- Students will write a short reason for each choice.
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
Browse the grade, subject, and topic this belongs to.
FAQ
How do I use this shades of meaning practice worksheet?
⌄
Use the near synonym sheet to introduce the idea, then the scales for practice. Discuss why students ordered words the way they did.
What does this worksheet teach?
⌄
Choose the best formal word, such as assert or demonstrate, in sentences from reports and essays. The directions on the page read: Each sentence comes from a formal report or essay. Circle the word that best fits its meaning and formal tone. Then write a short reason on the line. An answer key is included.
Can I use this shades of meaning practice worksheet for homeschool or classroom?
⌄
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 shades of meaning worksheets are there?
⌄
There are 4, and 3 have answer keys. The multiple meaning organizer has none.
What are near synonyms?
⌄
Near synonyms share a basic meaning but differ in feeling or strength, such as confident and arrogant.
Do students write sentences?
⌄
Yes. Students use chosen words in sentences of their own.
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 | 7th Grade |
| Subject | Reading |
| Topic | Shades of Meaning |
| Standard | L.7.5.C |
| Pages | 1 page |
| 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.







