A basic metaphor is a figure speech that makes a hidden, in plain sight, comparison between two things or concepts. In most cases, the comparison is seen as contradictory that focuses on a single commonly held characteristics. When writers portray a noun or action as being something other, the language is considered metaphorically. If the comparison made is literally true, it is not a metaphor. The use of this form of language breathe life into the body of work. In order to spot the use of this language you will need to have a good handle on cultural language conventions and the intent of the character. English is the spoken language of both America and England, but there are many disparities between the understanding of conventions between each country. Metaphors and similes both act as "shortcut" comparisons, but metaphors are indirect. Metaphors are the heart and soul of poetry, literature, and art.
The following collection of activity sheets will teach your students how to identify and interpret metaphors. Activities include rewriting prompts as metaphors, defining metaphors, identifying comparisons, transforming similes into metaphors, and more. Answer keys have been provided for instructors, but note that in some cases, student answers will vary. Fun Activity: While authors and speakers should try to avoid mixing metaphors, they can be fun. Have your students try to come up with good ones, such as "We'll burn that bridge when we come to it."
