Connect Across the Curriculum
How Do Words Matter? Writers carefully choose words to convey specific meanings or feelings. In her diary, Zlata uses specific words that let you feel her emotions.
A word’s connotation is the feeling or idea that the word suggests. One word might have a stronger effect than another. In “Zlata’s Diary,” she says war is “the worst thing in the world.” Would you feel the same way if she had said, “War is wrong”? Which word choices create a stronger effect? Why?
An author’s word choices create images in the reader’s mind.
Practice Together
Analyze Word Choice Reread “Zlata’s Diary” to find examples of thoughtful word choices. Tell the connotation of the words. Then discuss the effect of the words and how they make you feel.
| Word Choice | Connotation | Effect of the Words |
|---|---|---|
| “the worst thing in the world” | the horror of war | It sounds like the war was really horrible. I feel sad reading about what she went through. |
| “I’m desperate.” | the feeling of fear | It sounds like she is really afraid and not sure what to do. |
Try It!
Respond to Word Choice Work with a partner to finish the chart. Which word choices have the greatest effect on you? Explain.