Figurative Language in Bridge to Terabithia

Bridge to Terabithia is full of figurative language, especially similes. In this activity, students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying examples and creating a literal or portrayal of the figurative language.

Examples of Similes

• “Momma would be as mad as flies in a fruit jar if they woke her up at this time of day”, shows how angry Jess’ mother would be.


• “They would follow him around like a country-music star. And May Belle would pop her buttons”, describes how famous Jess would become if he won the race at school.


• “She had left him stranded there - like an astronaut wandering about on the moon. Alone.” This shows how lonely Jess feels after Leslie’s death.

Student Instructions

Create a storyboard that shows three examples of figurative language in Bridge to Terabithia.

1. Click "Start Assignment".
2. Identify use of figurative language in the text.
3. Put the type of figurative language (such as simile or metaphor) in the title box.
4. Give an example from the text in the description box.
5. Illustrate the example using using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.