Activity Overview
Bridge to Terabithia is full of figurative language, especially similes. In this activity, students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying examples and creating a literal or portrayal of the figurative language.
Examples of Similes
- “Momma would be as mad as flies in a fruit jar if they woke her up at this time of day”, shows how angry Jess’ mother would be.
- “They would follow him around like a country-music star. And May Belle would pop her buttons”, describes how famous Jess would become if he won the race at school.
- “She had left him stranded there - like an astronaut wandering about on the moon. Alone.” This shows how lonely Jess feels after Leslie’s death.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that shows three examples of figurative language in Bridge to Terabithia.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify use of figurative language in the text.
- Put the type of figurative language (such as simile or metaphor) in the title box.
- Give an example from the text in the description box.
- Illustrate the example using using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examples of Figurative Language | There are three examples of figurative language in the description boxes. | There are two correct examples of figurative language in the description boxes. | Only one of the examples of figurative language is correct. |
| Types of Figurative Language | All three examples are correctly identified as simile, metaphor, hyperbole, or personification (or other). | Two examples of figurative language are correctly identified as simile, metaphor, hyperbole, or personification (or other). | Only one example of figurative language is correctly identified as simile, metaphor, hyperbole, or personification (or other). |
| Illustrations | Illustrations show attention to the details of the story and demonstrate connection to the figurative language. | Illustrations demonstrate connection to the figurative language. | Illustrations do not make sense with the examples chosen. |
Activity Overview
Bridge to Terabithia is full of figurative language, especially similes. In this activity, students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying examples and creating a literal or portrayal of the figurative language.
Examples of Similes
- “Momma would be as mad as flies in a fruit jar if they woke her up at this time of day”, shows how angry Jess’ mother would be.
- “They would follow him around like a country-music star. And May Belle would pop her buttons”, describes how famous Jess would become if he won the race at school.
- “She had left him stranded there - like an astronaut wandering about on the moon. Alone.” This shows how lonely Jess feels after Leslie’s death.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that shows three examples of figurative language in Bridge to Terabithia.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify use of figurative language in the text.
- Put the type of figurative language (such as simile or metaphor) in the title box.
- Give an example from the text in the description box.
- Illustrate the example using using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examples of Figurative Language | There are three examples of figurative language in the description boxes. | There are two correct examples of figurative language in the description boxes. | Only one of the examples of figurative language is correct. |
| Types of Figurative Language | All three examples are correctly identified as simile, metaphor, hyperbole, or personification (or other). | Two examples of figurative language are correctly identified as simile, metaphor, hyperbole, or personification (or other). | Only one example of figurative language is correctly identified as simile, metaphor, hyperbole, or personification (or other). |
| Illustrations | Illustrations show attention to the details of the story and demonstrate connection to the figurative language. | Illustrations demonstrate connection to the figurative language. | Illustrations do not make sense with the examples chosen. |
How Tos about Figurative Language in Bridge to Terabithia
Guide students to write their own similes inspired by Bridge to Terabithia
Encourage creative writing by having students craft original similes related to the book's themes or characters. This activity deepens understanding of figurative language and helps students connect personally with the story.
Discuss the meaning of similes before students begin writing
Review what a simile is and how it compares two unlike things using 'like' or 'as'. This ensures all students have a clear foundation before creating their own examples.
Model how to brainstorm ideas for similes
Think aloud as you come up with similes about a character or setting from the book. For example, say, 'Jess ran as fast as a cheetah.' Demonstrate the process so students feel confident to try on their own.
Support students as they draft and revise their similes
Circulate as students write, offering encouragement and specific feedback. Suggest ways to make comparisons more vivid or connected to the story.
Share and celebrate student similes as a class
Invite students to read their favorite simile aloud. Applaud their creativity and discuss how these new similes add to the understanding of the book and figurative language.
Frequently Asked Questions about Figurative Language in Bridge to Terabithia
What are some examples of figurative language in Bridge to Terabithia?
Bridge to Terabithia uses many forms of figurative language, especially similes. Examples include: “Momma would be as mad as flies in a fruit jar,” “They would follow him around like a country-music star,” and “like an astronaut wandering about on the moon.”
How can I teach figurative language using Bridge to Terabithia?
Have students identify similes and metaphors in the text, explain their meanings, and create storyboards that illustrate these phrases. This helps students connect figurative language to the narrative and deepen comprehension.
What is a simile, and how is it used in Bridge to Terabithia?
A simile compares two things using 'like' or 'as'. In Bridge to Terabithia, phrases like “as mad as flies in a fruit jar” show characters' emotions by drawing vivid comparisons.
Why is figurative language important in children’s literature like Bridge to Terabithia?
Figurative language makes stories more engaging by helping readers visualize scenes and understand characters’ feelings. In Bridge to Terabithia, it deepens emotional impact and supports literacy skills.
What is a quick activity for teaching similes from Bridge to Terabithia?
Ask students to find three similes in the book, write them down, and draw a scene that shows each simile’s literal meaning. This fun activity reinforces understanding through creativity.
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