MIDDLE SCHOOL ENGLISH INSTRUCTION: Unit 2, Lesson 4
Activity # 2
Loaded Words: Using Denotation and Connotation
DIRECTIONS: Read each list of words below. Each word has a
different connotation, but has the same general denotation. Decide
what the general denotation is for each group. Write your answer on
the line provided. Then, number the words in each group from most
positive connotation to most negative connotation.
Example:
3.
4.
1.
5.
2.
thin
bony
slim
anorexic
slender
____thin____ (general denotation)
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
imprison
relocate
incarcerate
intern
evacuate
detain
lock-up
confine
_________________ (general denotation)
___
___
___
___
___
___
uprising
riot
demonstration
unlawful gathering
protest
disturbance
_____________________ (general denotation)
___
___
___
___
___
guerilla
freedom fighter
mercenary
soldier
terrorist
___
___
___
___
___
prisoner
evacuee
internee
detainee
inmate
__________________ (general denotation)
____internment camps
____detention camps
____assembly centers
____concentration camps
____prison camps
____relocation centers
____temporary detention centers
_____________________ (general denotation) __________________ (general denotation)