Three important literary terms to know are connotation, theme, and dramatic irony. Learning these terms will help you to better understand what you are reading. You will have a greater knowledge so you can read and write better if the topic ever comes up. The first important literary term for eighth grade is connotation. Connotation is the attitude or feelings associated with the words authors use. So, if you say, “The horrific event that happened scarred them for life,” rather than, “The scary event that happened won’t be forgotten,” you will have a more dramatic connotation towards the event. You can get the reader hooked more and allow them to picture what is happening and understand it better. Therefore, connotation is important. The