Activity Overview
“Paul Revere’s Ride” has many examples of figurative language, including personification, simile, and metaphor. In this activity, students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying the examples and creating a literal or figurative portrayal of the language.
Examples of Figurative Language in "Paul Revere's Ride"
| DESCRIPTION | EXAMPLE | |
|---|---|---|
| Personification | Giving human-like characteristics to non-human objects or abstract ideas | The watchful night-wind, as it went; Creeping along from tent to tent, And seeming to whisper, "All is well!" |
| Simile | A comparison using 'like' or 'as' | A phantom ship, with each mast and spar; Across the moon like a prison bar |
| Metaphor | An implied comparison between two things | And the spark struck out, by that steed, in his flight; Kindled the land into flame with its heat |
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 “Paul Revere’s Ride”.
- 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
“Paul Revere’s Ride” has many examples of figurative language, including personification, simile, and metaphor. In this activity, students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying the examples and creating a literal or figurative portrayal of the language.
Examples of Figurative Language in "Paul Revere's Ride"
| DESCRIPTION | EXAMPLE | |
|---|---|---|
| Personification | Giving human-like characteristics to non-human objects or abstract ideas | The watchful night-wind, as it went; Creeping along from tent to tent, And seeming to whisper, "All is well!" |
| Simile | A comparison using 'like' or 'as' | A phantom ship, with each mast and spar; Across the moon like a prison bar |
| Metaphor | An implied comparison between two things | And the spark struck out, by that steed, in his flight; Kindled the land into flame with its heat |
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 “Paul Revere’s Ride”.
- 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 \"Paul Revere\'s Ride\"
How to Facilitate a Class Discussion on Figurative Language in 'Paul Revere's Ride'
Encourage students to share and explain figurative language examples in a supportive group setting. Interactive discussions help students deepen their understanding and make personal connections to the text.
Prepare discussion questions in advance
List open-ended questions about figurative language found in the poem. Thoughtful prompts guide students to think critically and participate actively.
Set clear expectations for student participation
Explain that all voices are valued and respectful listening is required. Clear norms foster a safe, inclusive environment for sharing ideas.
Model analyzing an example together
Walk through one figurative language example as a class, discussing what it means and why the author used it. Modeling shows students how to approach analysis.
Invite students to share their findings
Ask students to present examples they found, explaining their reasoning. Student-led sharing builds confidence and reinforces learning.
Summarize key takeaways together
Wrap up by highlighting what was learned about figurative language and its impact on the poem. Summarizing helps solidify understanding and connects ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions about Figurative Language in \"Paul Revere\'s Ride\"
What are some examples of figurative language in "Paul Revere's Ride"?
"Paul Revere's Ride" features personification ("the watchful night-wind, as it went"), simile ("across the moon like a prison bar"), and metaphor ("kindled the land into flame with its heat"). These devices help bring the poem's imagery and action to life.
How can students identify figurative language in "Paul Revere's Ride"?
Students can find figurative language by looking for comparisons, descriptions that give objects human traits, or phrases that aren't meant to be taken literally. Encourage them to spot similes, metaphors, and personification in the poem's lines.
What is a simple classroom activity for teaching figurative language with "Paul Revere's Ride"?
Assign students to create a storyboard showing three examples of figurative language from the poem. They should label the type, quote the example, and illustrate it. This visual approach helps reinforce their understanding.
Why is figurative language important in "Paul Revere's Ride"?
Figurative language adds vivid imagery and emotion, making the poem more engaging and memorable. It helps readers visualize the events and feel the suspense of Paul Revere's journey.
What is the difference between a simile and a metaphor in "Paul Revere's Ride"?
A simile uses words like "as" or "like" to compare ("across the moon like a prison bar"), while a metaphor is a direct comparison without those words ("kindled the land into flame with its heat"). Both enhance the poem's imagery in unique ways.
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