Analyzing Word Choice
This worksheet helps grade 4 students understand how authors use specific words to convey meaning and evoke feelings.
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Analyzing Word Choice
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Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Pay close attention to the author's choice of words.
The old, rickety bridge groaned under the weight of the heavy cart. Its wooden planks were splintered and worn, telling tales of many journeys. A cool, gentle breeze rustled through the tall grass along the riverbank, making the leaves dance. The river below sparkled like a thousand diamonds as the sun touched its surface. A tiny, timid rabbit darted across the path, disappearing into the thick bushes.
1. In the first sentence, the word 'rickety' suggests the bridge is:
Strong and new
Weak and unstable
Made of metal
Very long
2. What feeling does the phrase 'sparkled like a thousand diamonds' create about the river?
It looks dark and scary.
It looks bright and beautiful.
It is very deep.
It is frozen solid.
3. The word 'groaned' helps us imagine the sound the bridge makes, suggesting it is .
4. The author describes the breeze as 'cool, gentle'. If the author had used 'fierce, strong' instead, the feeling of the passage would be .
5. The author uses the word 'timid' to describe the rabbit. What does 'timid' tell you about the rabbit, and why do you think the author chose that word?
Match the word with the feeling it creates.
6. Splintered
a. Soft and calm
7. Dance
b. Old and damaged
8. Gentle
c. Lively and playful