Diction KM English 12

Learning target and success criteria Analyze the word choice or diction for a passage to determine meaning. Explain the effect that a word choice has on a reader and purposefully select a word to create a specific effect on a reader.

Diction Refers to an author’s choice of words. Words are the basic tools that writers have and they create the color and texture of a written work Shape readers perception Consider the effect that individual words have on a reader Can also refer to a style of speaking

Consider banned words When writing short stories in Middle School, consider why the following words may have been banned. Bad Pretty Nice

Using words like a paint Brush The criminal doesn’t want revenge. The criminal is “thirsting for revenge.” The coat isn’t “old and bad”. It’s ________________ Specific diction brings the reader into the scene.

Connotation vs. denotation As a class: List various words that mean “underweight”. Each of these words technically mean “underweight”, but in practice, they each carry a slightly different connotation, or meaning. There are words that are considered polite, and there are other words that are considered rude. Rank all of the words in order from positive connotation to negative connotation.

Speaking style Activity: Adjust the speaking style of each of these sentence. Hey, what's up, man? Lookin' cool in those shades you're wearin'! (make this formal) The patient has experienced acute trauma to the right femur, and must have surgery stat. (make this simple) Aren't you a cute little fella? I bet your mommy is in love with you-that's right. I see that smile! (make this formal)

British vs. American diction “Then they worked out that the universe was expanding…” “The dog was called Wellington…” Mr. Jeavon’s said that I was a clever boy”

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

Diction Noticing What do you notice about the length and complexity of words in this passage? What do you notice about the use of adjectives? What do you notice about the length of sentences? How about dialogue? Thinking about your previous answers, what is the overall effect on the reader? What idea is the author trying to convey or communicate?

In practice As we read, you will be asked to focus on the word choices that authors make. When asked to do this, try to focus on adjectives to begin with as adjectives are infamous for their ability to convey different shades of meaning. (Adjectives are descriptive words)