Grade 6 · Reading · Lesson 2

Use context, connotation and denotation

Every word carries at least two layers of meaning. Its denotation is the literal, dictionary definition \u2014 what the word means on paper. Its connotation is the emotional color the word carries \u2014 the feelings, associations, and attitudes that cling to it. Skilled readers pay attention to both layers, and skilled writers choose words deliberately because of both.

What this lesson teaches

1Distinguish between the denotation and connotation of a word
2Use context clues to infer the precise meaning of unfamiliar vocabulary
3Classify words as having positive, neutral, or negative connotations
4Explain how an author’s word choices shape the tone and meaning of a text

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