Distinguish DENOTATION (dictionary meaning) from CONNOTATION (associations) and apply both in argument (CCSS L.6.5.b/c)
Exercise Difficulty 2 ~6 min eng.g6.s.ex_34

Denotation Connotation Match

Prompt

Match 5 word groups to their connotation gradient (strongly negative — slightly negative — neutral — slightly positive — strongly positive): (1) confident: arrogant/cocky/assured/confident/inspiring. (2) smart: cunning/shrewd/clever/intelligent/brilliant. (3) thin: emaciated/skinny/thin/slender/svelte. (4) speak: shriek/yell/say/state/proclaim. (5) different: weird/odd/unusual/distinctive/unique.

M-6-S-VOC-EX-34-A Interactive Physical / non-image

Connotation gradient sort cards (5 groups × 5 words). Print-ready card kit.

Answer criteria
type rubric
rubric
All 5 gradients correctly ordered = 4; 4 = 3; 3 = 2; <3 = 1
Hints
  1. Same denotation; different connotations.
  2. Choose deliberately for argumentative effect.
Misconceptions to watch
  • Treats synonyms as fully interchangeable.
  • Confuses positive with neutral.