[Secondary LESSON PLAN: Loaded Words]

Loaded Words: Using Denotation and Connotation

Directions: Read each list of words below. Each word has a different connotation, but has the same general denotation. Decide what the general denotation is for each group. Write your answer on the line provided. Then, number the words in each group from most positive connotation to most negative connotation.

Example: 3. thin 4. bony 1. slim 5. anorexic 2. slender ____thin____ (general denotation)	___ imprison ___ relocate ___ incarcerate ___ intern ___ evacuate ___ detain ___ lock-up ___ confine ____________ (general denotation)
___ uprising ___ riot ___ demonstration ___ unlawful gathering ___ protest ___ disturbance ____________ (general denotation)	___ prisoner ___ evacuee ___ internee ___ detainee ___ inmate ____________ (general denotation)
___ guerilla ___ freedom fighter ___ mercenary ___ soldier ___ terrorist ____________ (general denotation)	internment camps detention camps assembly centers concentration camps prison camps relocation centers temporary detention centers ____________ (general denotation)

Write one or two "loaded words" of your own:

 

After everyone has completed the above, discuss why the term "concentration camps" is so controversial. How did the meaning of this term change after World War II? While you are waiting for others to finish, jot your ideas here: