Activity Overview
“Sea Fever” contains multiple instances of figurative language, particularly personification. Students can deepen their understanding of the poem by locating examples of figurative language and analyzing their effect on the poem. For each example of figurative language students locate, have them create a storyboard square depicting the intended meaning. Then, below the square, ask students to explain how that figurative language increases their understanding of the poem. For example, the figurative language might reveal the speaker’s relationship with the sea more clearly, it might contribute to the tone of the poem, or it might illustrate the setting.
“Sea Fever” Figurative Language
“sea’s face”
Calling the surface of the water a "face" suggests that the sailor has a personal relationship with the sea. Just as we can tell a person's emotions by looking at their face, the sailor can read the mood of the sea by looking at it.
“call of the running tide”
The tide is personified when it seems to call out to the sailor. This reinforces the idea that the sea has a mind and emotions of its own. It also suggests a kind of hypnotic power that the sea has over the sailor. To a certain degree, the sailor feels almost forced to go to sea.
“wind’s song”
The wind, like the sea, comes alive in this poem. It too is personified when it is said to be singing. The word "song" suggests a beautiful and melodious sound, emphasizing the sailor's positive experience of the sea.
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 illustrates figurative language in "Sea Fever".
- Use the template provided by your teacher.
- Find quotes that use figurative language and put them into the title boxes.
- Describe what each quote means in the description box.
- Illustrate each example with appropriate 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
“Sea Fever” contains multiple instances of figurative language, particularly personification. Students can deepen their understanding of the poem by locating examples of figurative language and analyzing their effect on the poem. For each example of figurative language students locate, have them create a storyboard square depicting the intended meaning. Then, below the square, ask students to explain how that figurative language increases their understanding of the poem. For example, the figurative language might reveal the speaker’s relationship with the sea more clearly, it might contribute to the tone of the poem, or it might illustrate the setting.
“Sea Fever” Figurative Language
“sea’s face”
Calling the surface of the water a "face" suggests that the sailor has a personal relationship with the sea. Just as we can tell a person's emotions by looking at their face, the sailor can read the mood of the sea by looking at it.
“call of the running tide”
The tide is personified when it seems to call out to the sailor. This reinforces the idea that the sea has a mind and emotions of its own. It also suggests a kind of hypnotic power that the sea has over the sailor. To a certain degree, the sailor feels almost forced to go to sea.
“wind’s song”
The wind, like the sea, comes alive in this poem. It too is personified when it is said to be singing. The word "song" suggests a beautiful and melodious sound, emphasizing the sailor's positive experience of the sea.
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 illustrates figurative language in "Sea Fever".
- Use the template provided by your teacher.
- Find quotes that use figurative language and put them into the title boxes.
- Describe what each quote means in the description box.
- Illustrate each example with appropriate 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 “Sea Fever” Figurative Language
Create a figurative language anchor chart with your class
Introduce figurative language terms and examples by making a class anchor chart. Visual displays help students remember and reference key concepts throughout the poetry unit.
Model how to identify figurative language in a poem aloud
Read a few lines of “Sea Fever” and think aloud as you spot personification or metaphor. This demonstrates your process and builds student confidence in finding examples themselves.
Guide students to find and label figurative language in small groups
Assign groups to search the poem for figurative phrases and label each with sticky notes or in digital docs. Collaboration makes the task less intimidating and encourages discussion.
Discuss how figurative language shapes meaning and mood
Facilitate a class conversation on how the figurative language affects the poem’s tone, imagery, and the speaker’s feelings. Encourage students to give examples and support their ideas.
Have students create illustrated figurative language posters
Assign students to pick a favorite example from the poem and design a poster with the quote, an illustration, and a brief explanation. Display these around the classroom to reinforce learning.
Frequently Asked Questions about “Sea Fever” Figurative Language
What are some examples of figurative language in 'Sea Fever'?
Examples of figurative language in 'Sea Fever' include personification such as “sea’s face,” “call of the running tide,” and “wind’s song.” These phrases give the sea and wind human-like qualities, deepening the poem’s meaning.
How does personification affect the meaning of 'Sea Fever'?
Personification in 'Sea Fever' makes the sea and wind feel alive, helping readers connect emotionally with the sailor’s longing and emphasizing the powerful bond between the speaker and the ocean.
How can students analyze figurative language in 'Sea Fever'?
Students can identify figurative language in the poem, illustrate its meaning with storyboard squares, and explain how each example enhances their understanding of the speaker’s feelings and the poem’s tone.
What is the purpose of creating a storyboard for 'Sea Fever' figurative language?
Creating a storyboard helps students visually interpret figurative language, making abstract ideas clearer and encouraging deeper analysis of how language shapes the poem’s mood and message.
Why is figurative language important in teaching poetry to grades 6-12?
Figurative language enriches poetry by conveying complex emotions and imagery. Teaching it to grades 6-12 helps students develop critical thinking and interpretive skills essential for literary analysis.
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