Students need to be able to identify and to explain similes and metaphors as well as
write them on most reading and writing achievement tests. The problem is that students
tend to get similes and metaphors confused. It is important that they know the
differences between these poetic techniques.
Preparation for Lesson on Similes and Metaphors
1. Know and be able to teach basics of similes and metaphors.
Similes: a comparison of two things using like or as
Example: Her mind is like a sponge absorbing all of the details.
Metaphor: a comparison of two things not using like or as
Example: Her mind is a sponge that absorbs all the details.
2. Find poetry or song lyrics that have good examples of similes and metaphors.
For metaphors
“Which Way to the Dragon” by Sara Holbrook in the book, Which Way to the Dragon:
Poems for Coming-on-Strong [Boyds Mills Press, 1996] offers two nice metaphors.
For similes
“Since Hanna Moved Away” by Judith Viorst in the book, If I Were in Charge of the
World and Other Worries [Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Simon & Schuster,
1981] offers two nice similes.
3. Design handouts for the students that explain metaphors and similes and offer
practice.
Example Items for Similes and Metaphor Lesson
Directions: Identify each as a metaphor or simile. Then, explain the meaning.
1. Her hair was golden silk streaming in the afternoon breeze
2. The algebra question x+16=30 is a sharp object jiggling around in my brain
3. Jordan walked like an elephant on parade
4. Jan’s broken nose swelled up like a big red balloon
5. Tim was as tall as Mount Everest
6. Carrying my book bag was like dragging around a bag of boulders
7. Jordan’s reply was burning hot and crispy
8. Michael is the lion king of his class
9. She danced like she was trying to stomp on rabid squirrels
10. John is the Tiger Woods of his golf team
Answers: 1. metaphor, 2. metaphor, 3. simile, 4. simile, 5. simile, 6. simile, 7. metaphor,
8. metaphor, 9. simile, and 10. metaphor
Teaching the Lesson
1. Discuss the definitions of simile and metaphor.
2. Read three-to-five poems that have great examples of metaphors and similes
with enthusiasm to the class. Point out the similes and metaphors and discuss
what they mean.
3. Give the hand out on similes and metaphors to the students. When they have
completed the handout, go over the answers.
4. Ask students to write two similes and two metaphors on a topic they love.
5. Assign students to write a final copy of the similes and metaphors. Students
should illustrate them too.
The next day post all of the similes and metaphors around the room. Have students
share them and give prizes for the most interesting, funny and/or “deep” ones.