Figurative language is important for reading comprehension, and it’s fun to teach. Once students understand the difference between literal and figurative language and how authors use figurative language, it adds depth and a lot of humor to reading. These figurative language anchor charts provide the support you need to help kids with metaphors, similes, and so much more. Make a few to hang in your classroom quicker than a cheetah on the hunt!
1. Figurative Language 101
This chart includes definitions and examples of some of the major types of figurative language. The pictures are terrific memory aids.
Does it drive you nuts when kids use “literally” the wrong way? This chart might help! (Then again, it might not, but at least they’ll know the difference.)
Highlight some of the most-used figurative language and provide multiple examples. Be sure to have students help you come up with the best ones to list.
OK, maybe they won’t all be able to spell it, but they’ll definitely remember what it means! Onomatopoeia is everyone’s favorite type of figurative language.
This is one kind of figurative language that definitely comes naturally to kids, even if they don’t know its name. They’ll love coming up with the best examples in the world!
Being able to identify symbolism is an extremely important skill for students to develop as they grow older. Introduce the concept with this anchor chart.
If you’re looking for figurative language anchor charts that are silly and creative, try using examples from pop culture. This anchor chart features Angry Birds to help students remember each figurative language skill.