Figurative language is an essential part of developing student literacy. Because of the nature of language and the need for context or connection, it can be difficult for young students to understand and properly use figurative language. Markedly, books are a great way to help your students learn about literary devices in a fun and engaging way! Also, these mentor texts will provide your students with examples of how different types of figurative language are used in context. Shortly, we will explore some of my favorite books to mix into your lessons.
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Introduction to Literal and Non-Literal Language
Firstly, students will need an introduction to the concept of “Figurative Language.” We will talk more about this in an upcoming blog post, but as a quick summary: Younger students need to first learn the difference between “Literal” and “Non-Literal Language.”
In fact, I recommend starting your unit with one of Fred Gwynne’s books. Specifically, a book like The King Who Rained or Chocolate Moose for Dinner uses common phrases with multiple meanings and illustrates the literal meaning of each. So, the pictures show the literal translation of a phrase that has a non-literal meaning. Not only will the visual elements improve concept connection, but also, the phrases and language help students develop an understanding of the words “literal” and “figurative.” Students absolutely love these silly ways to see phrases being interpreted and it helps them understand that not all language is literal.
Firstly, Similes & Metaphors
Then, you can begin to introduce specific types of non-literal language. Most standards start with similes and metaphors. I consider these to be “comparative language.” Because, likely, the subject of the phrase is being compared to another subject.
While similes and metaphors are often found within the same books, I would try to use a few examples of texts that focus on similes alone.
Books for Teaching Similes (and a few metaphors)
- Skin Like Milk, Hair Like Silk
- Quick as a Cricket
- Crazy like a Fox
- Muddy as a Duck Puddle
- Stubborn as a Mule
- My Dog is As Smelly as Dirty Socks
Furthermore, I would include some texts that have a specific focus on metaphors, too! Although, once students have grasped the concepts, I would add books that include both devices.
Books for Teaching Metaphors
- Black is a Rainbow Color
- You’re Toast
- LOVE
- Fireflies!
- My Mouth is a Volcano
- Two Bad Ants
- My School’s a Zoo
Similarly, personification is a language that compares. So, I like to include it with similes and metaphors. It may not be that you’re grade level or standards requires personification. But if they do, or if your students are ready to learn about it, here are some books with great examples!
Books for Teaching Personification
- Spoon
- The Dark
- Hurricane!
- The Night Box
- The Legend of Rock, Paper, Scissors
- Snow
- Orion and the Dark
- Twilight Comes Twice
Secondly, Idioms, Adages, & Proverbs
Afterward, we can teach all about idioms, proverbs, and adages. Being that these phrases provide some sort of advice, knowledge, or universal truth or that they express an idea or relationship, I consider these phrases “advisory language”. Additionally, these are all commonly known sayings that have been used for a long time. So, learning these phrases often comes with connection or experience. Students commonly love learning these types of phrases and positively enjoy reading books that express them!
Books for Teaching Idioms, Adages, & Proverbs
- There’s a Frog in My Throat
- Life is a Bowl Full of Cherries
- It’s Raining Cats and Dogs
- The World is Your Oyster
- Parts
- More Parts
- Even More Parts
- My Teacher Likes to Say
- My Grandma Likes to Say
- My Momma Likes to Say
Finally, Hyperbole, Onomatopoeia, Alliteration
Lastly, we have hyperbole, onomatopoeia, and alliteration. These devices add something extra to the writing or story.
Given that hyperbole is an exaggeration, this is an excellent opportunity to thread in tall tales!
Books for Teaching Hyperbole (with a focus on Tall Tales)
Generally, I have found that students will love the interactive nature of books that include onomatopoeia! All in all, these books make for some really awesome and memorable lessons!
Books for Teaching Onomatopoeia (and the language of sound)
- An Onomatopoeia Adventure
- The Sound of All Things
- On a Rainy Day
- Ten Ways to Hear Snow
- Listen
- Squeak, Rumble, Whomp, Whomp, Whomp
- Click, Clack, Moo: Cows that Type
- When Papa Snores
- Crunch and Crack, Oink and Whack
Last, but not least, here are my choices for alliteration books! Undoubtedly, your students will be using alliteration constantly after learning about this fun literary device!
Books for Teaching Alliteration
- Some Smug Slug
- Amazing Animal Actions: Alliterations A-Z
- Clara Caterpillar
- Betty’s Burgled Bakery
- The Spaghetti-Slurping Sewer Serpent
- The Worrywarts
- Chips and Cheese, and Nana’s Knees
Thanks so much for checking out some of my favorite mentor texts! I hope you found some that you can use in your classroom, too.
Soon, check back to see my next Figurative Language blog post that will feature all of the Anchor Charts you need! Until then, happy teaching!
Resources That Are Ready to Go!
If you are teaching a figurative language unit soon and need materials, look no further. These standards-based units have everything you need from lesson plans to assessments. Plus, they will make your life so much easier! In fact, they are no prep for you. Click the buttons below to get a closer look!
Meanwhile, would you like to read more Language posts?
