The Tapping in the West Wing - Connotation and Denotation in literary text (Grade 7)

In paragraph 3, which word best captures Daphne's feeling that the sound is both persistent and unnerving?

• ridiculous

• silly

• haunting

• steady

Answer explanation

While Daphne also says the sound is 'steady' (persistent), the word 'haunting' has a stronger connotation that includes being persistent in an unnerving or eerie way, which aligns with her fear.

When Leon calls the noise a 'silly prank,' what does his choice of the word 'silly' suggest about his attitude?

• He thinks the sound is funny and entertaining.

• He is trying to downplay the situation and act like it's not a big deal.

• He believes Daphne is telling a clever joke.

• He is excited to solve a fun puzzle.

Answer explanation

The word 'silly' has a connotative meaning of being unimportant or not serious. Leon uses it to dismiss Daphne's fear and the seriousness of the sound, as the text notes it 'sounded forced, as if he were trying to convince himself.'

What is the main effect of repeating the phrase 'Tap. Tap. Tap.' in paragraph 4?

• It shows that the characters are getting bored.

• It creates a suspenseful and unnerving rhythm.

• It suggests the sound is getting louder.

• It proves that the sound is just a prank.

Answer explanation

The repetition of the sound 'Tap. Tap. Tap.' mimics the unnervingly consistent noise the characters hear. This literary device is used to build tension and create a suspenseful, rhythmic mood for the reader, which aligns with the horror genre.

The word 'haunting' has a negative connotation. What feeling does this word choice most likely create in the reader?

• Joy

• Anger

• Confusion

• Unease

Answer explanation

The word 'haunting' suggests something that is persistent, unsettling, and perhaps supernatural. This connotation helps build a mood of suspense and unease, which is characteristic of the horror genre.

At the end of the passage, Leon says they will look 'Together.' What does this single word show?

• A shift from blaming each other to working as a team.

• That he is still angry but is giving in.

• That he is now more scared than Daphne.

• That he thinks the project is no longer important.

Answer explanation

Leon's use of 'Together' signals a resolution to their conflict. He moves from accusing Daphne ('You’re just trying to freak me out') to offering support, showing they will face the mystery as a team.

Match each word or phrase to the connotative meaning it suggests in the passage.

• Age and mystery

• softening (tone)

• Tension easing

• ancient wooden door

• Growing empathy

• sharp (voice)

• Irritation and impatience

• flicker of relief

Answer explanation

The word 'ancient' implies more than just old; it suggests mystery. A 'sharp' voice connotes irritation. A 'softening' tone indicates a move away from conflict toward empathy. A 'flicker of relief' suggests a small but significant release of worry.

Sort the following quotes from the passage into the categories that best describe the speaker's tone.

Groups:

(a) Dismissive or Accusatory Tone

,

(b) Fearful or Worried Tone

• Leon: “This is ridiculous, Daphne.”

• Leon: “You’re just trying to freak me out...”

• Daphne: “My heart is pounding.”

• Daphne: “What if something is in there?”

• Leon: “It’s a silly prank.”

• Daphne: “It’s a haunting sound, Leon.”

Answer explanation

The quotes in the 'Dismissive or Accusatory Tone' category show Leon trying to reject Daphne's concerns and blame her. The quotes in the 'Fearful or Worried Tone' category show Daphne's genuine fear and concern about the mysterious noise.

Leon and Daphne resolved their argument by shifting their focus to solving the mystery together. Based on their dialogue, how could their strategy be used to solve a disagreement with a friend over a group project at school? Use specific examples of their changing language from the passage to support your answer.

Answer explanation