Throughout our study of literature you will be expected to learn, understand and use many literary devices.  Below are a few of them to have for quick reference.

·        A simile is a literary device that compares one noun to another using the words “like” or “as”.

The investor cried like a baby when he realized his money was completely lost.

The frightened child’s face was as white as a ghost.

·        A metaphor is a literary device that compares one noun to another directly. (without “like” or “as”)

My father is a bear without breakfast.

·        Personification gives a non-living object, lifelike characteristics.

Shutters flapping in the harsh winter wind, the cottage shivered alone in the night.

Practice Time!

Label each of the sentences below as containing a metaphor, simile or example of personification.

1.     The exhausted detective slept like a baby the night his crime had been solved.  _______________________________

2.    The time sped by as if on wings of an eagle when Karen rode her favorite horse.  ____________________________

3.    The chimes of the clock laughed mockingly as the girl realized she must leave without the treasure she had hoped to find.  _______________________

4.    “You’re a treasure!” exclaimed Grandma. ________________________

5.    Looking for the missing assignment in Leah’s locker was like trying to find a needle in a haystack. __________________________

6.    The dark clouds grumbled an angry threat at the wandering trio.  _________________________________

* Write a complete sentence containing an example of each literary device.