Lesson Plan
Teaching Similes and Metaphors
Grade: This lesson is designed for 7th Grade Language Arts
Students should be able to interpret similes and metaphors. Students should be able to create and write their own examples.
Materials: Selected written examples from various sources. Books, poetry, media etc..
Discussion Questions: What are the purposes of similes and metaphors? Why is description necessary in communication ? What are the artistic implications of these literary tools ? How can they be used in everyday life for advantage ?
Activities:
Display literary examples of similes and metaphors.
Have students identify each type.
Have students exchange the two types.
Practice in groups.
Have each student create their own.
Evaluation
Not graded activity, practice only.
Lesson Plan Reflection
The lesson plan that was planned and discussed in dealing with similes and metaphors was a successful effort where much learning took place. Examples of each kind of literary tool were used to highlight and describe their intent. Similes and metaphors can be confusing and it is important that each student could distinguish between the two.
The students gained a sustained and increased appreciation for the use of these tools as the lesson progressed. The more examples the students heard the more they began to understand. The lesson itself was extremely beneficial because it forced the students to create and use their imagination in very extreme ways. By allowing the freedom to analyze and compare, a useful trigger is snapped within the mental processes of the students.
The main problem with this lesson was the students' inability to know what the words they were using actually meant. It appears that in order for the use of similes and metaphors to have the best and strongest impact, it is important that students know the definitions of the words they are using.
Overall the lesson was a success and much of the information used in the presentation can be used as a base to grow and develop writing and communication techniques further and more precise. The lesson could be improved if attempted again using different examples and by allowing the students to participate even more in the discussion.
