Distinguish connotations of academic-register synonyms (claim/assertion/contention; investigation/inquiry/probe) (CCSS L.7.5.c)
Exercise
Difficulty 3
~6 min
eng.g7.f.ex_34
Connotation Word Choice
Prompt
For each context, choose the best word among CLAIM / ASSERTION / CONTENTION + justify. (1) Coates [claim/assertion/contention]s that historical injustice creates compounding harm (well-supported, scholarly tone). (2) The lobbyist's [claim/assertion/contention] lacks supporting evidence (boldness without support). (3) The two parties' [claim/assertion/contention] over the matter remains unresolved (highlights dispute).
M-7-F-VOC-EX-34-A
Interactive
Physical / non-image
Connotation choice worksheet with 3 contexts and word-choice columns + justification. Print-ready 8.5x11.
Answer criteria
type
classification
correct
- claim (neutral, well-supported)
- assertion (suggests boldness without support)
- contention (highlights dispute)
Hints
- Claim = neutral default for research register.
- Assertion = bold + insufficiently supported.
Misconceptions to watch
- Uses 'assertion' for well-supported arguments.
- Uses 'contention' for non-disputed positions.
Used in lessons