Word Choice Skills Worksheet

1. Connotation and Denotation

Example from the text: “He looked at his wife, in the seat beside him, with shocked astonishment.”

Denotation: The literal meaning of "astonishment" is a feeling of great surprise or wonder.

Connotation: This word often carries a sense of shock or unexpectedness, suggesting deeper emotions.

Question: How does the connotation of "astonishment" enhance the reader's understanding of Walter's feelings toward his wife?

Answer: __________

2. Similes

Example from the text: “The Commander’s voice was like thin ice breaking.”

Question: What does the simile suggest about the nature of the Commander's voice?

Answer: __________

3. Metaphors

Example from the text: “The roar of the car was a lion's growl.”

Question: How does this metaphor contribute to the reader's perception of the car?

Answer: __________

4. Personification

Example from the text: “The wind howled through the trees.”

Question: What effect does personification have on the imagery of the scene?

Answer: __________