Idioms & Will Ferrell: Figurative Language Master
Having trouble with idioms? Check out the free English Idioms Illustrated app for iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. The app, gives the user an illustrated example of an idiom with background and an explanation for what the idiom means. If you want your students to practice using idioms, check out this great example of an idioms handout from the blog ReadLearnTeachLife. For the assignment, students illustrate an idiom, then use it in a sentence to show they know how to use it.
Figurative language can also sometimes be a challenge for students. Help them out with this YouTube video: Will Ferrell and Figurative Language. The video is a bit lengthy and may be more appropriate for older viewers; however younger students may appreciate it in smaller doses:)
Identifying Figurative Language
Need a book to review identifying simile, metaphor, hyperbole, idiom, or onomatopoeia? Check out Skippyjon Jones Cirque de Ole by Judy Schachner. You’ll get an added bonus of alliteration in this one as well. With phrases like “They raced like rabbits” , “tiny Trembling Tower of Power”, “low dog on the totem pole” and “speed of a spitball” and words like “Thwapppppp!” This is sure to a book that pleases all ages. (My personal favorite is the Hans and Franz shout out “We will PUMP YOU UP.”)
Where the Mountain Meets the Moon - Meeting all your figurative language needs!
My brother and niece have been bugging me to read Grace Lin’s Where the Mountain Meets the Moon. I finally picked up the audio this week, and it is FANTSASTIC. The imagery, use of figurative language and the folktales make this a Common Core winner. It would easily make for an engaging read aloud in 2nd or 3rd grade and an awesome novel study in 4th or 5th. Did I mention it’s a Newbery Honor book? Come check it out!