Figurative Language | Grade 4 ELA

Florida B.E.S.T. Standard

ELA.4.R.3.1

Explain how figurative language contributes to meaning in text(s).

Simile

Compares two things using "like" or "as"

"Her smile was as bright as the sun."

Metaphor

Says one thing IS another thing (direct comparison)

"Time is money."

Idiom

A phrase that means something different than its literal words

"It's raining cats and dogs."

Personification

Gives human qualities to non-human things

"The wind whispered through the trees."

Hyperbole

Extreme exaggeration for effect

"I've told you a million times!"

Printable Resources

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Teacher Guide

5-day lesson plan, definitions, examples, and teaching strategies

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Student Concept Worksheet

Introduction to all 5 types with identification and meaning practice

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Practice Worksheet

Identify types and explain meanings in context

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FAST Practice Quiz

10 test-format questions - mirrors actual FAST assessment

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Parent Activity Guide

Fun home activities to practice figurative language

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Answer Keys

Complete answers for all worksheets with explanations

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Teaching Tips for Figurative Language

Literal vs. Figurative: Start by comparing literal meaning (exactly what words say) with figurative meaning (what the author really means).

"Like" or "As" = Simile: If a comparison uses "like" or "as," it's a simile. If it doesn't, it's probably a metaphor.

Create Mental Images: Have students draw what idioms would look like literally (raining cats and dogs!) to understand why figurative language exists.

Why Did the Author Use This?: Always ask how the figurative language adds meaning or feeling to the text.