Exploring Figurative Language

Overview

This 70-minute lesson engages 6th-grade students in mastering the use and identification of figurative language, aligned to Common Core English Language Arts Standards. Students will actively analyze, create, and present examples of similes, metaphors, and personification, enhancing their comprehension and expressive skills.

Standards Addressed

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.6.4
Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.6.5
Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.3.D
Use precise words and phrases, relevant descriptive details, and sensory language to convey experiences and events.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

Define similes, metaphors, and personification.
Identify examples of figurative language in short passages and poems.
Create original sentences and short paragraphs using figurative language.
Collaborate to present figurative language examples creatively.

Materials

Whiteboard and markers
Projector and screen or smartboard
Printed Figurative Language Frosty Activity Sheets (includes simile, metaphor, and personification exercises)
Index cards
Colored markers or crayons
Writing notebooks or journals

Lesson Timeline & Activities

1. Introduction & Objective (10 minutes)

Briefly introduce figurative language via engaging real-world examples (e.g. “The snow is a white blanket.”)
Describe similes, metaphors, and personification with clear, relatable definitions.
Write definitions and examples on the board for student reference.
State lesson objectives linked to Common Core standards to the class.

2. Guided Practice: Identify Figurative Language (15 minutes)

Display short excerpts from age-appropriate texts or poems on the board.
Read aloud together and have students raise their hands to identify similes, metaphors, or personification.
Discuss how each example affects the meaning or tone of the text.
Explain the importance of figurative language in storytelling and poetry (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.6.4).

3. Group Activity: Frosty Figurative Language (20 minutes)

Students move to the cafeteria with activity sheets (similes, metaphors, personification exercises tailored to 6th grade).
Allow students flexibility to use extra time if needed to complete enjoyable yet challenging worksheets.
Teacher and assistants circulate to support understanding and encourage deeper thinking (differentiated support for varied skill levels).
Encourage students to underline or highlight figurative language in the worksheets for visual emphasis.

4. Creation & Sharing: Figurative Language Cards (15 minutes)

Back in the classroom, students use index cards to write one original simile, metaphor, or piece of personification.
Use colored markers or crayons to decorate cards, promoting creative engagement.
In small groups (5-6 students), share cards aloud and discuss why the figurative language is effective or vivid.
Students will provide positive peer feedback, reinforcing comprehension (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.6.5).

5. Wrap Up & Reflection (10 minutes)

Conduct a whole-class reflective discussion; ask:
- Which kind of figurative language was easiest to understand? Why?
- How can figurative language improve writing?
Summarize key takeaways and revisit how this lesson connects with Common Core standards.
Assign a brief journal entry prompt: “Write about your day using at least two types of figurative language.”

Assessment

Informal assessment through observation and class participation during guided practice and group activities.
Review completed Frosty Activity Sheets for accuracy and depth.
Evaluate original figurative language cards for creativity and correct use.
Collect journals next lesson to assess application of figurative language in writing.

Differentiation & Extensions

For learners who need more support: Provide sentence starters for the figurative language cards and one-on-one assistance during activities.
For advanced learners: Challenge them to create original similes/metaphors personifying abstract concepts (e.g., “fear whispered in the shadows.”)
Cross-curricular tie-in: Plan a follow-up art project illustrating students’ figurative language sentences or a mini-poetry slam using their cards.

This dynamic, standard-aligned lesson combines hands-on practice, creativity, and interactive discussion, allowing all 49 students to grasp and enjoy figurative language effectively—making it a memorable experience that meets rigorous educational expectations.

Teaching Instructions