Activity Overview
Figurative language is used frequently in The House of Mango Street, most notably in the chapter, "Hair". Four common forms of figurative language are metaphor, simile, personification, and hyperbole.
Type |
Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Metaphor | an implied comparison between two things | Her smile was a ray of sunshine on a dreary day. |
| Simile | a comparison using the words "like" or "as" | The thorn cut like a razor. |
| Personification | giving human-like characteristics to non-human objects | The wind whispered its secrets through the trees. |
| Hyperbole | use of exaggeration to prove a point | This traffic light is taking forever! |
Find three or more examples of figurative language and, using a T-Chart, create two columns: one quoting the book with matching illustration, and the second showing the figurative language with an illustration of what it would literally look like. For example: along with “Papa’s hair is like a broom”, the cell might show Papa with actual brooms on his head.
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 examples of figurative language in The House of Mango Street.
- 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 of Literal and Intended Meanings | Illustrations show both the literal meaning of the text and the intended meaning of the figurative language. | Illustrations show either literal meaning or intended meaning, but not both. | Illustrations do not make sense with the examples chosen. |
Activity Overview
Figurative language is used frequently in The House of Mango Street, most notably in the chapter, "Hair". Four common forms of figurative language are metaphor, simile, personification, and hyperbole.
Type |
Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Metaphor | an implied comparison between two things | Her smile was a ray of sunshine on a dreary day. |
| Simile | a comparison using the words "like" or "as" | The thorn cut like a razor. |
| Personification | giving human-like characteristics to non-human objects | The wind whispered its secrets through the trees. |
| Hyperbole | use of exaggeration to prove a point | This traffic light is taking forever! |
Find three or more examples of figurative language and, using a T-Chart, create two columns: one quoting the book with matching illustration, and the second showing the figurative language with an illustration of what it would literally look like. For example: along with “Papa’s hair is like a broom”, the cell might show Papa with actual brooms on his head.
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 examples of figurative language in The House of Mango Street.
- 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 of Literal and Intended Meanings | Illustrations show both the literal meaning of the text and the intended meaning of the figurative language. | Illustrations show either literal meaning or intended meaning, but not both. | Illustrations do not make sense with the examples chosen. |
How Tos about Figurative Language Activity|The House of Mango Street
Use Figurative Language Anchor Charts to Reinforce Understanding
Anchor charts help students recognize and remember types of figurative language. Display examples and definitions on a visible chart so students can easily reference them during reading and writing activities.
Model Think-Alouds When Identifying Figurative Language
Read passages aloud and verbalize your thought process as you spot figurative language. This demonstrates how to analyze and interpret literary devices, making abstract concepts concrete for your students.
Incorporate Daily Figurative Language Warm-Ups
Start each lesson with a quick example for students to identify and explain. Regular practice builds confidence and sharpens recognition skills across genres and subjects.
Encourage Students to Create Their Own Figurative Language Examples
Invite students to write original metaphors, similes, or personifications related to classroom topics. This creative exercise deepens understanding and makes learning more engaging and memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions about Figurative Language Activity|The House of Mango Street
What are some examples of figurative language in The House on Mango Street?
Examples of figurative language in The House on Mango Street include similes like “Papa’s hair is like a broom,” metaphors such as “Her smile was a ray of sunshine,” and personification like “The wind whispered its secrets through the trees.” These enrich the text and help readers visualize characters and scenes.
How can I teach figurative language using The House on Mango Street?
To teach figurative language with The House on Mango Street, have students find examples in the text, identify their types (simile, metaphor, personification, hyperbole), and illustrate both the figurative and literal meanings using a T-Chart or storyboard. This makes abstract language more accessible and engaging.
What is a T-Chart activity for figurative language?
A T-Chart activity for figurative language involves creating two columns: one with a quoted example from the book and an illustration, and the other showing what the phrase would literally look like. This helps students distinguish between figurative and literal language.
Which chapter in The House on Mango Street has the most figurative language?
The chapter “Hair” in The House on Mango Street is especially rich in figurative language, featuring vivid similes and metaphors that describe the characters. It’s a great section for teaching and analyzing creative comparisons.
Why is figurative language important in middle school literature lessons?
Figurative language is crucial in middle school because it helps students interpret deeper meanings, develop analytical skills, and appreciate authors’ craft. Activities using texts like The House on Mango Street make lessons interactive and memorable.
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