Activity Overview
Figurative language adds a descriptive element to text. The Shiloh book has several examples of figurative language, including similes and hyperbole. In this activity, students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying the examples from the text and creating a literal or figurative portrayal of the language. Additional types of figurative language include metaphors, personification, and idioms.
Figurative Language Examples
| DESCRIPTION | EXAMPLE | |
|---|---|---|
| Simile | A comparison using 'like' or 'as' | “I’m happy as a flea on a dog.” |
| Hyperbole | Exaggeration or overstatement for humor or emphasis | “I feel like there’s a tank trunk sitting on my chest; can’t hardly breathe.” |
| Hyperbole | Exaggeration or overstatement for humor or emphasis | “He knows I’d rather swim a river full of crocodiles than face Judd Travers.” |
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 Shiloh.
- 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
Figurative language adds a descriptive element to text. The Shiloh book has several examples of figurative language, including similes and hyperbole. In this activity, students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying the examples from the text and creating a literal or figurative portrayal of the language. Additional types of figurative language include metaphors, personification, and idioms.
Figurative Language Examples
| DESCRIPTION | EXAMPLE | |
|---|---|---|
| Simile | A comparison using 'like' or 'as' | “I’m happy as a flea on a dog.” |
| Hyperbole | Exaggeration or overstatement for humor or emphasis | “I feel like there’s a tank trunk sitting on my chest; can’t hardly breathe.” |
| Hyperbole | Exaggeration or overstatement for humor or emphasis | “He knows I’d rather swim a river full of crocodiles than face Judd Travers.” |
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 Shiloh.
- 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 Shiloh
How to Lead a Figurative Language Scavenger Hunt in Your Classroom
Turn figurative language learning into a fun, interactive game with a scavenger hunt! This activity helps students engage deeply with the text and builds teamwork skills.
Prepare a list of figurative language types and examples.
List different figurative language types—like similes, metaphors, and hyperboles—and provide sample phrases. This gives students clear targets to search for in the text.
Assign student teams and provide them with copies of Shiloh.
Form small groups or pairs and make sure each has a copy of the book. Working together encourages discussion and critical thinking.
Challenge students to find and record figurative language examples.
Instruct students to hunt for examples in the story, writing down the quote, the page number, and the type of figurative language. This reinforces close reading skills.
Review findings as a class and discuss their meanings.
Share findings on the board and ask groups to explain the meaning behind each example. This step builds comprehension and encourages students to think about why the author used figurative language.
Frequently Asked Questions about Figurative Language in Shiloh
What are some examples of figurative language in the book Shiloh?
Shiloh features several types of figurative language, including similes like “I’m happy as a flea on a dog” and hyperboles such as “I feel like there’s a tank trunk sitting on my chest; can’t hardly breathe.” These expressions add vivid imagery and emotion to the story.
How can I teach figurative language using Shiloh to my 4th or 5th graders?
To teach figurative language with Shiloh, have students identify similes, metaphors, and hyperboles in the text. Ask them to create storyboards illustrating each example, label the type of figurative language, and explain its meaning. This makes learning interactive and fun.
What is the difference between a simile and a hyperbole in Shiloh?
A simile compares two things using “like” or “as,” such as “I’m happy as a flea on a dog.” A hyperbole is an exaggerated statement, like “I feel like there’s a tank trunk sitting on my chest.” Both appear in Shiloh to create vivid imagery.
Why is figurative language important in Shiloh?
Figurative language in Shiloh helps readers connect emotionally with characters, adds humor, and makes descriptions more vivid. It allows students to explore creative writing and better understand the author’s message.
What activities help students identify figurative language in Shiloh?
Effective activities include creating a storyboard with examples from the text, matching quotes to the type of figurative language, and group discussions. These approaches help students recognize and understand similes, hyperboles, and metaphors in Shiloh.
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