Build Vocabulary Denotative and Connotative Word Meanings! Focus on the development of the English language from before its Anglo-Saxon sources to the present. Examine the etymology of several English expressions, in an attempt to arouse the interest of students in the study of etymology. The language history is then linked to building vocabulary through a study of denotative and connotative meaning of words. Includes sheets of vocabulary exercises, those tried and true vocabulary lists for dictionary work and sentence building.