Analyzing Word Meanings and Tone

Analyzing Word Meanings

Why do authors choose the words they do?

Technical Meaning

• Subject areas such as science, math, engineering, music, etc. It expresses ideas using technical words and phrases.

• Example: The guitarist was known for his phrasing when he composed his pieces.

Why do authors choose the words they do?

Connotative Meaning

• A word chosen for its connotation expression is not just an idea but also a feeling.

• The feeling is either negative, neutral, or positive.

• Example: She resented growing up in the shack she did and not in a normal house like the rest of her friends.

Why do authors choose the words they do?

Figurative Meaning

• Words or phrases that express ideas in creative, unusual, or unexpected ways

• Example: The earplitting music was causing her to have a headache.

Match

Match the following

• Technical

• Connotative

• Figurative

Using technical words and phrases

Uses not just an idea but also a feeling

Express ideas in creative, unusual ways

• Using technical words and phrases

• Uses not just an idea but also a feeling

• Express ideas in creative, unusual ways

Open Ended

Based on this diagram. What words have technical, figurative, or connotative meanings?

Dropdown

What type of meaning is the for the second row?​

Select answer

Dropdown

What type of meaning is the for the third row?​ ​

Select answer

Open Ended

Explain why the author used the type of meaning for the third row.​ ​

Draw

• Underline words and phrases in the passage that express technical, connotative, and figurative meanings.

• Explore how to respond ot this prompt: "The underlined words and phrases in the passage express technical, connotative, and figurative meanings. Determine the meaning of each word of phrase as it is used in the passage."

Draw

Underline any word or phrase that conveys a figurative meaning.

Multiple Choice

Which statement best describe the impact of the author's word choice on the overall tone of the account?

• Phrases like teensy pests and hitch rides give the whole account a humorous tone.

• Words like rest, travel, and neighbors give the account a comforting tone.

• The words evidence and professional exterminator are use to create a threatening tone.

• Words with technical meanings create and informative tone, but phrases like crawling pinholes add a note of disgust.

Open Ended

Explain which words and phrases helped you figure out the intended tone of the account.