Question

use the passage to answer the question.
in 3 - 5 sentences, classify the word earth - shattering as denotative, connotative, or figurative, and then explain how context helped you determine the meaning of the phrase.
(4 points)
short answer rubric (4 points)

Explanation:

The word "earth - shattering" is figurative. It does not mean literally breaking the earth. Context helps as it is used to describe a discovery about plesiosaurs' reproductive behavior (different from other reptiles). The phrase emphasizes the significance of the discovery rather than a literal earth - breaking action.

Answer:

The word “earth - shattering” is figurative. Context (mention of a significant discovery about plesiosaurs' reproduction) shows it means very important, not literal.