Connotation and Denotation
What is the denotation of a word?
The dictionary definition of that word.
What do we call the main character of a story, and give me an example of this character within a story?
Protagonist
What is direct characterization?
When the author tells the readers explicitly what the character is like.
What are two synonyms for happy?
Synonyms for happy include joyful, glad, cheerful, etc.
What are the 3 main author’s purposes?
Persuade, Inform, Entertain.
What is the connotation of a word?
The cultural or emotional meaning of that word.
What do we call the force or character working against the protagonist, and give me an example of this character within a story?
Antagonist
What is indirect characterization?
When the author shows us what a character is like through the characters speech, thoughts, emotions, and actions.
What are two antonyms for difficult?
Antonyms for difficult include easy, simple, etc.
If you are reading a text that gives you step-by-step directions, the author’s purpose is most likely ________.
Inform
The word slim and the word skinny have the same denotation, but which one usually has a negative connotation?
Skinny has a negative connotation.
In a plot diagram, which part shows the conflict and suspense building?
Rising action
Which type of characterization is used here: “Marcus was a very selfish boy.”
Direct Characterization
What does it mean to make an inference when reading?
To use clues from the text plus what you already know to make a logical guess.
What is theme in a story?
The message or lesson of the story.
Identify the connotation in this sentence: She lives in a cozy house. (positive, negative, or neutral)
Positive connotation. (Cozy suggests warmth and comfort.)
A character who changes throughout the story is called ________, while a character who stays the same is called ________.
Dynamic, Static
Which type of characterization is used here: “Marcus refused to share his toys and often bragged about his new shoes.”
Indirect characterization
Jamie walked into class with his head down and eyes red. What can you infer about Jamie?
He may have been crying, upset, or embarrassed.
Create one sentence describing my classroom using at least 2 sensory details (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste).
Ex. The bright movie themed posters on the walls catch my eye, while the interesting sound of Miss Parker's doorbell loudly rings throughout the room.
Create a sentence using the word cheap in a way that shows a negative connotation, then rephrase it using affordable to show a positive connotation.
Negative: The shoes looked cheap and poorly made. Positive: The shoes were affordable but stylish.
Define climax. Explain what the climax is in 7th Grade by Gary Soto.
The most intense moment of the story. The climax in the story is when Victor pretended to know French in order to impress Teresa.
Create your own example of indirect characterization that shows a character is shy, without directly saying it.
Example: Maya kept her eyes on the floor and whispered when she spoke to the teacher.
Give 2 synonyms and 2 antonyms for the word brave.
Synonyms: courageous, bold. Antonyms: cowardly, fearful.
Read this theme: “Hard work pays off.” Create one sentence that could be included in your own personal story about this theme original sentence that could be part of a story showing this theme without saying it directly.
Example: After months of practice, Luis finally won first place in the race. (Shows theme of hard work paying off.)