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Year 9

Using figurative language effectively for character description

I can create effective similes and metaphors to describe a malevolent character.

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New
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Year 9

Using figurative language effectively for character description

I can create effective similes and metaphors to describe a malevolent character.

Download all resources
Share activities with pupils

Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. Figurative language is non-literal language. Examples of methods which are figurative include simile and metaphor.
  2. Using figurative language can help enhance your descriptions as it creates more vivid detail for the reader.
  3. You should avoid using clichéd examples when crafting similes and metaphors. It's better to be original in thought.
  4. One way to avoid clichés is to add additional detail to make it specific to your character.

Common misconception

As long as similes or metaphors follow the correct rules they will be effective.

Many comparisons in similes and metaphors are clichéd and this often takes away from a description and makes it unimaginative. The challenge is to try be original in your thought!

Keywords

  • Figurative language - a way of expressing ideas by using words or phrases that go beyond their literal meaning

  • Simile - a comparison of two things, often using the words 'like' or 'as'

  • Metaphor - a direct comparison of two things using the verb 'to be'

  • Cliché - a phrase or opinion that is overused

  • Original - the quality of being different or new

Depending on the needs of your class oyu may want to make Task B an extended writing task or provide additional modelling to support your pupils.
Teacher tip

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

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Starter quiz

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6 Questions

Q1.
A is a word used to describe an action, state, or occurrence.
Correct Answer: verb
Q2.
What is a simile?
a direct contrast two things
a direct comparison between two things
Correct answer: a comparison between two things using the words 'like' or 'as'
Q3.
A direct comparison of two things using the verb 'to be' is the definition of a .
Correct Answer: metaphor
Q4.
Which sentence uses an effective verb to describe a character’s movement?
They walked to the park.
She ran quickly to the door.
Correct answer: He bolted across the street.
Q5.
Being clear what your is before writing will help you make more effective word choices.
Correct Answer: intent, intention
Q6.
If something is clichéd, this means ...
it's original in thought.
Correct answer: that it's overused.
it's in direct contrast to something else.

Exit quiz

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6 Questions

Q1.
Match the keywords to their definitions.
Correct Answer:figurative language,a way of expressing non-literal ideas

a way of expressing non-literal ideas

Correct Answer:simile,a comparison of two things, often using the words 'like' or 'as'

a comparison of two things, often using the words 'like' or 'as'

Correct Answer:metaphor,a direct comparison of two things using the verb 'to be'

a direct comparison of two things using the verb 'to be'

Correct Answer:cliché,a phrase or opinion that is overused

a phrase or opinion that is overused

Correct Answer:original,the quality of being different or new

the quality of being different or new

Q2.
Which of the following is an example of a simile?
Her laugh was a sinister whisper in the dark.
Correct answer: His presence was like a shadow creeping across a moonlit path.
His gaze was a cold, unfeeling void.
Her smile was a freezing wind in winter.
Q3.
Which sentence contains a metaphor?
His presence was like a dark cloud hanging overhead.
Her eyes were as cold as steel.
Correct answer: The room was a tomb, silent and foreboding.
He crept through the shadows like a thief.
Q4.
Which sentence uses a metaphor to describe a character's fear?
His heart raced like a drumbeat.
Correct answer: The fear was a cold, gripping hand around his chest.
She trembled as if caught in a winter storm.
His eyes darted around like a frightened animal.
Q5.
One way to avoid is to add additional detail to make it specific to your character.
Correct Answer: clichés, cliches, a cliché, a cliche
Q6.
What are key reasons why writers include powerful examples of figurative language in their writing?
Correct answer: it helps to create vivid images for the reader
Correct answer: it’s helpful to show character emotion
it makes the their writing sound more impressive