English Language Arts
Grade 7
15 min
Identify similes and metaphors
Identify similes and metaphors
Tutorial Preview
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Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Define simile and metaphor.
Distinguish between similes and metaphors based on their structure.
Identify similes in various literary texts.
Identify metaphors in various literary texts.
Explain the comparison being made in a given simile or metaphor.
Differentiate between literal and figurative comparisons.
Analyze the effect of similes and metaphors on a text's meaning or tone.
Have you ever heard someone say, 'Her voice is music to my ears' or 'He eats like a horse'? 🎶 What do these phrases really mean?
In this lesson, you'll learn to identify two powerful literary devices: similes and metaphors. These tools help writers create vivid images and deeper meanings by comparing two unlike things. Understanding them will sha...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
Figurative LanguageLanguage that uses words or expressions with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation. It's used to create a special effect or meaning.Instead of saying 'The sun was bright,' saying 'The sun was a giant eye staring down at us.'
Literal LanguageLanguage that means exactly what it says. There is no hidden or symbolic meaning.The cat sat on the mat.
ComparisonThe act of examining two or more things to find out how they are similar or different.Comparing a cheetah's speed to a race car's speed.
SimileA figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things using the words 'like' or 'as'.The clouds were fluffy *like* cotton balls.
MetaphorA figure of speech that directly compar...
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Key Rules & Conventions
The 'Like' or 'As' Rule for Similes
If a comparison between two unlike things uses the words 'like' or 'as', it is a simile.
This rule helps you quickly spot similes. Always check that the two things being compared are truly different categories (e.g., a person and a lion, not two people).
The Direct 'Is/Are' Rule for Metaphors
If a comparison between two unlike things states that one thing *is* or *was* another, without using 'like' or 'as', it is a metaphor.
Metaphors make a direct, often surprising, identification. Look for forms of the verb 'to be' (is, are, was, were) connecting two distinct nouns or ideas.
The 'Unlike Things' Rule
Both similes and metaphors compare two thing...
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Challenging
A writer wants to create a mood of intense anxiety and pressure. Which of the following similes would be most effective in achieving this goal?
A.The waiting felt like a long, lazy river.
B.The waiting was like a ticking time bomb.
C.The waiting was as peaceful as a sleeping kitten.
D.The waiting felt like a warm, comfortable blanket.
Challenging
Read the passage: 'The detective's mind was a steel trap, snapping shut on any clue. Each new fact was like a puzzle piece he carefully placed.' Which statement correctly identifies and distinguishes the figurative language used?
A.The passage contains two similes.
B.The passage contains two metaphors.
C.The passage contains a metaphor ('mind was a steel trap') followed by a simile ('fact was like a puzzle piece').
D.The passage contains a simile ('mind was a steel trap') followed by a metaphor ('fact was like a puzzle piece').
Challenging
The tutorial mentions that metaphors can be implied through verbs. Which sentence best exemplifies this type of subtle, implied metaphor?
A.His angry words were daggers.
B.The plan was as solid as a rock.
C.Her ideas blossomed after the conversation.
D.The argument was a war between them.
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