Knowing Nuance

This lesson addresses nuances in the meanings of words with similar denotations. The lesson spans two class periods. On day 1, students learn what connotation and denotation are, consider how these concepts relate to understanding nuances in the meanings of words with similar denotations, examine words with similar denotations and different connotations, explore written examples of connotation-rich language, and reflect on the importance of that language. On day 2, students will review key information about connotation, denotation, and the role of these concepts in the nuanced use of language, apply connotation-rich language in their writing, and reflect on the significance of doing so. Students will answer an exit question about the importance of understanding connotation and denotation to strong writing. The lesson's objectives are: students will understand the concepts of connotation and denotation; students will understand how connotation and denotation relate to nuanced differences in the meanings of words; students will understand the importance of connotation and denotation to strong writing; and students will apply their knowledge of connotation and denotation to writing and reflect on the significance of those concepts to strong writing.