Activity Overview
Matilda uses several examples of figurative language including similes and personification. In this activity, students will directly quote an example of figurative language from the text. Students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying the examples and creating a literal and/or figurative portrayal of the language:
- The first example is a simile: "'Welcome to borstal,' she added, spraying bits of crisp out of her mouth like snowflakes."
- A second example is also a simile: "She saw the child white in the face, as white as paper, trembling all over..."
- Lastly is an example of personification: "In the space of thirty seconds the atmosphere in the tiny room had changed completely and now it was vibrating with awkwardness and secrets."
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 Matilda.
- 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
Matilda uses several examples of figurative language including similes and personification. In this activity, students will directly quote an example of figurative language from the text. Students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying the examples and creating a literal and/or figurative portrayal of the language:
- The first example is a simile: "'Welcome to borstal,' she added, spraying bits of crisp out of her mouth like snowflakes."
- A second example is also a simile: "She saw the child white in the face, as white as paper, trembling all over..."
- Lastly is an example of personification: "In the space of thirty seconds the atmosphere in the tiny room had changed completely and now it was vibrating with awkwardness and secrets."
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 Matilda.
- 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 Ilustrando el Lenguaje Figurado en Matilda
Organize a figurative language word wall in your classroom
Help students recognize and remember figurative language by setting up a vibrant word wall. Post examples from Matilda and add student contributions to make the wall interactive and engaging.
Select key figurative language examples from your current reading
Choose three to five vivid examples from your classroom text to get started. Use quotes that are easy for students to visualize or connect with for greater impact.
Invite students to contribute their own examples
Encourage students to find or create figurative phrases while reading independently or in groups. This practice deepens comprehension and makes learning collaborative.
Design and display student illustrations next to word wall entries
Have students draw literal or figurative representations for each word or phrase. Displaying their work reinforces understanding and builds classroom pride.
Review and refresh the word wall regularly
Update the wall with new examples from different texts or genres throughout the year. This keeps the learning fresh and relevant for your students.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ilustrando el Lenguaje Figurado en Matilda
What are some examples of figurative language in Matilda?
Matilda uses figurative language like similes and personification. Examples include similes such as "rociando trozos de patata a la inglesa de su boca como copos de nieve" and "tan blanco como el papel," as well as personification like "la atmósfera...se vibra con torpeza y secretos."
How can I teach figurative language using Matilda to 4th or 5th graders?
To teach figurative language with Matilda, have students identify similes and personification in the text, quote them, label the type, and draw literal or figurative illustrations. This helps students recognize and understand figures of speech in context.
What is the difference between simile and personification in Matilda?
A simile compares two things using "like" or "as" (e.g., "tan blanco como el papel"). Personification gives human qualities to non-human things (e.g., "la atmósfera...se vibra con torpeza y secretos"). Both appear in Matilda to make descriptions more vivid.
Why is it important for students to recognize figurative language in literature?
Recognizing figurative language helps students better understand the author's intent, visualize scenes, and develop deeper reading comprehension skills. It also enhances creativity and critical thinking in analyzing texts.
What is an easy classroom activity for practicing figurative language with Matilda?
An easy activity is to have students find three examples of figurative language in Matilda, label each type (simile, personification), quote the text, and illustrate the meaning. This can be done individually or with partners for grades 4–5.
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