Magical Metaphor Identification Worksheet

Instructions

Underline the metaphor in each sentence. Then on the lines below, write the two things that are being compared.

1. The city was a jungle, teeming with life day and night.
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. His voice was music to her ears on that quiet morning.
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. The snow is a white blanket covering the earth.
   
   
   
   
   
   

4. Her eyes were diamonds, sparkling with curiosity.
   
   
   
   
   
   

5. The wind was a howling wolf in the dark forest.
   
   
   
   
   
   

Reflection

Choose one of the metaphors above and explain why it is effective. Use complete sentences.

Magical Metaphor Creation Worksheet

Instructions

Write an original metaphor for each prompt. Remember, a metaphor is a direct comparison between two unlike things without using “like” or “as.” Use vivid, imaginative language to make your comparisons come alive.

1. Describe a person (for example, someone you admire) using a metaphor.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. Describe an object (for example, an everyday item) using a metaphor.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. Describe a feeling (for example, happiness, fear, excitement) using a metaphor.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Reflection (Optional)

Choose one of the metaphors you wrote above. Explain why you chose this comparison and how it helps the reader picture your subject.

Metaphor Identification Answer Key

Use this key to check student responses on the Magical Metaphor Identification Worksheet. Each item below shows the correct metaphor, the two things being compared, and a brief explanation of why it works. A model reflection is provided to guide grading.

1. The city was a jungle, teeming with life day and night.

1. Identify the metaphor
   • Metaphor phrase: “city was a jungle”
2. Two things being compared
   • City ↔ jungle
3. Explanation of effect
   • Compares the busy, crowded streets of a city to a wild jungle full of activity. Conveys chaos, noise, and constant motion.

2. His voice was music to her ears on that quiet morning.

1. Identify the metaphor
   • Metaphor phrase: “voice was music to her ears”
2. Two things being compared
   • His voice ↔ music
3. Explanation of effect
   • Suggests his voice brings pleasure and comfort, just as beautiful music would.

3. The snow is a white blanket covering the earth.

1. Identify the metaphor
   • Metaphor phrase: “snow is a white blanket”
2. Two things being compared
   • Snow ↔ blanket
3. Explanation of effect
   • Implies snow gently wraps and insulates the ground like a soft blanket, evoking warmth and calm.

4. Her eyes were diamonds, sparkling with curiosity.

1. Identify the metaphor
   • Metaphor phrase: “eyes were diamonds”
2. Two things being compared
   • Her eyes ↔ diamonds
3. Explanation of effect
   • Conveys brightness and value; emphasizes how her eyes shine and catch attention when she’s curious.

5. The wind was a howling wolf in the dark forest.

1. Identify the metaphor
   • Metaphor phrase: “wind was a howling wolf”
2. Two things being compared
   • Wind ↔ wolf
3. Explanation of effect
   • Gives the wind an eerie, animal-like quality; helps readers hear and feel the wind as something alive and unsettling.

Reflection Item (Sample Response)

Student prompt: Choose one of the metaphors above and explain why it is effective.

Model answer (using #3):
I chose “The snow is a white blanket covering the earth” because it helps me picture snow softly covering everything like a cozy blanket. It also suggests the ground is quiet and peaceful under the snow’s protection.

Grading Guidance for Reflection

• Content (3 points): Explanation mentions both elements of the comparison (e.g., snow, blanket) and describes the image it creates.
• Clarity (2 points): Student uses complete sentences and clear reasoning.
• Depth (1 point): Goes beyond naming the objects and describes the emotional or sensory effect (e.g., peaceful, cozy).

Total: 6 points

Teachers can adapt the rubric as needed (e.g., move to a 4- or 8-point scale).

Use this answer key to provide targeted feedback:
• Confirm that students underline the correct phrase.
• Check their stated comparisons match those above.
• For the reflection, look for clear, detailed explanations of why the metaphor works.

Metaphor Reflection Exit Ticket

Instructions

Please complete the following prompts to show your understanding of metaphors. Write in complete sentences where indicated.

1. In your own words, what is a metaphor?
   
   
   
   

2. Give one example of a metaphor we discussed today and explain which two things it compared.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. Write your own original metaphor and label the two things you are comparing.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Metaphor Creation Rubric

Assess student-created metaphors using three key criteria: Vividness of Language, Accuracy of Metaphor Structure, and Explanation & Justification. Each criterion is scored on a 4-point scale (1–4). Total possible points: 12.

Scoring Guide:

• 4 points = Exemplary
• 3 points = Proficient
• 2 points = Developing
• 1 point = Beginning

Total Score: ___ /12
Use this rubric to provide targeted feedback and identify areas for growth in students’ figurative writing.