Let's solve this worksheet step by step. The task is to
circle the word in parentheses that has a more positive connotation.
What are denotation and connotation?
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Denotation: The literal or dictionary meaning of a word.
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Connotation: The emotional or cultural associations a word carries (positive, negative, or neutral).
We’re focusing on
connotation, specifically choosing the word with a
more positive feeling.
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1. Our trip to the amusement park was (good wonderful).
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Good: Neutral to slightly positive — okay, acceptable.
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Wonderful: Strongly positive — exciting, amazing, delightful.
✔ Answer: wonderful
> *Why?* "Wonderful" expresses greater joy and enthusiasm than "good."
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2. (Brave Foolhardy) people rode the rollercoaster.
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Brave: Positive — courageous, admirable.
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Foolhardy: Negative — reckless, careless, not wise.
✔ Answer: brave
> *Why?* "Brave" is praised; "foolhardy" implies stupidity or danger without reason.
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3. We saw (fascinating weird) animals in the animal house.
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Fascinating: Positive — interesting, captivating, exciting.
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Weird: Neutral to negative — strange, unusual, possibly unsettling.
✔ Answer: fascinating
> *Why?* "Fascinating" suggests wonder and interest; "weird" can imply something odd or unpleasant.
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4. Some of the monkeys made (hilarious goofy) faces.
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Hilarious: Very positive — extremely funny, causing laughter.
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Goofy: Mildly positive — silly, playful, but less intense than "hilarious."
✔ Answer: hilarious
> *Why?* "Hilarious" indicates strong humor; "goofy" is cute but not as impactful.
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5. Everyone's face wore a (smile smirk) on the way home.
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Smile: Positive — happy, joyful, friendly.
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Smirk: Negative or smug — often implies arrogance or superiority.
✔ Answer: smile
> *Why?* A "smile" shows genuine happiness; a "smirk" suggests self-satisfaction or mockery.
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✔ Final Answers:
1.
wonderful
2.
brave
3.
fascinating
4.
hilarious
5.
smile
These words all carry
more positive connotations than their alternatives.
Let me know if you'd like a printable version or explanation for students!
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of connotation and denotation worksheet.
