Blog Break--Writing Questions Forum

Hello Class,

We are going to take a break from the blog this week so you all can spend time writing your first essay. This forum can be  used, however, for a discussion forum on your essay.  If you have any questions for me between now and the rough draft, please post them here.  

• If you get stuck try freewriting, this 10-15 minute writing exercise will help you break up some of the writer's block.  
• If you need assistance with grammar and punctuation rules, please refer to to the reference section in your Keys for Writers. Author Anne Raimes includes an entire section towards grammar and punctuation.  Plesae read the color-coded tabs for information regarding this section. 
• If you quote an outside source, which was not a requirement for this essay, please make sure that you create a Works Cited page.  In English classes,  we observe the MLA format. If you are not sure what that looks like, please reference your Keys text.
• Finally, if, while your writing, you feel like you want to scream.  Get up and take a break.  Sometimes walking a way for a little while reinvigorates you. 

We will resume the regular blog schedule next week.

Thank you,

Ms. Wanzo

Denotation and Connotation

Hi Class:

This week we are continuing to read Chapter 2 and making connections between the text and our every day lives.

Two key definitions that Mayfield introduces us to are "Denotation and Connotation." 

Denotation refers to the literal meaning of the word and connotation refers to the suggestion of a word.  It's easy to understand denotation as you are understanding the word based on it's standard definition--one that has be accepted as a societal truth (it's in the dictionary). 

The connotation of a word is a little more challenging because it's subjective.  By that I mean, it's based on the emotional response or association one makes to a word.  For example, a sexual innuendo is usually a suggestion with sexual or physical implications, but it's based on how well the receiver of the message understands the meaning.   Think about it, if you don't understand the meaning of a word, can you really understand what's being asked of you?

In your text, on pages 56, Mayfield provides an example using the word snake examining it's negative connotations. 

What kinds of words can you think of where the denotation and connotation are very different?  In this post provide examples of all the words that you can think of.  If you can't think of any on your own.  Do a little research.  What does the Internet suggest?  Try dictionary.com or "Google" it.




What types of words can you think of where connotation and denotation are interchanged?

Malcolm X Saveed

TRead Malcolm X's "Saved," which is located on pages 72-74.

"An Accurate use of words improves our thinking.  Words give form to our thoughts so that we can make use of them.  Words enable us to communicate with others and ourselves.  Know the words for things and experiences helps us see and percieve more" (63).~ Marlys Mayfield  Thinking for Yourself


What does Mayfield mean in the quote above?  What connections can be drawn from the quote to "Saved?"  How did you discover the importance of expanding your vocabulary?

Don't forget to respond to your peers.