Activity Overview
Maniac Magee is full of figurative language: similes, metaphors, and hyperbole.
In this activity, students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying the examples and creating a literal and figurative portrayal of the language.
The sentence, “The Cobras figured that Maniac would get out of East End in about as good shape as a bare big toe in a convention of snapping turtles” shows that the Cobras believe Maniac will meet a lot of trouble in the East End.
The sentence, “His smile was so wide he’d have to break it into sections to fit it through a doorway”, shows that Grayson is very happy.
“Would Finsterwald’s long, bony hand dart out, quick as a lizard’s tongue, and snatch poor Maniac?” This sentence shows the kids are worried that the mysterious Mr. Finsterwald will kidnap Maniac.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that shows illustrations of figurative language from Maniac Magee.
- Find three examples of figurative language in the text. Type the quotes in the description boxes.
- Identify the type figurative language:
- Simile
- Metaphor
- Personification
- Hyperbole
- In each cell, show what the actual words say on one side, and what the words mean on the other.
Lesson Plan Reference
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/5/1] Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/5/4] Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative language such as metaphors and similes.
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examples of Figurative Language | There are three examples of figurative language in the description boxes. | There are two correct examples of figurative language in the description boxes. | Only one of the examples of figurative language is correct. |
| Types of Figurative Language | All three examples are correctly identified as simile, metaphor, hyperbole, or personification (or other). | Two examples of figurative language are correctly identified as simile, metaphor, hyperbole, or personification (or other). | Only one example of figurative language is correctly identified as simile, metaphor, hyperbole, or personification (or other). |
| Illustrations of Literal and Intended Meanings | Illustrations show both the literal meaning of the text and the intended meaning of the figurative language. | Illustrations show either literal meaning or intended meaning, but not both. | Illustrations do not make sense with the examples chosen. |
How To Identify the Difference Between Simile and Metaphor
Give Definitions
Teachers can first give students the definitions of simile and metaphor and why such figurative language is used within the text.
Introduce Examples
Students can identify some examples on their own from the text and analyze what kind of figurative language is used. Teachers can also give different and easier examples to get the students started. These examples can also be based on real-life situations so the students can understand easily.
Look for the Use of “As” and ‘Like”
A common indicator for the use of similes is the use of “as” and “like”. It might not always be the case but it happens most of the time. Teachers can introduce these short tricks with concepts to students for their ease. In comparison, metaphors are more imaginative and involve direct comparison.
Encourage Creativity
Students can write some metaphors and similes of their own based on their interests or daily life and read them in front of the entire class. As an activity, the rest of the class will identify if the figurative language used is a metaphor or a simile. This activity can be carried out individually or in small groups.
Practice
Teachers can give students a few phrases each day to practice and test themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions About Identifying Figurative Language in Maniac Magee
What does literary figurative language mean?
Figurative language is a literary technique that gives a work depth and imagery. It entails the utilization of terms or words that transcend beyond their strict interpretation. Metaphors, personification, hyperbole, similes, and idioms are examples of figurative language that is frequently used.
How can I get more practice to identify figurative language in "Maniac Magee"?
Practice by carefully reading the text and marking any passages that appear to employ figurative language. Pay attention to any words or phrases that strike out as being particularly imaginative or non-literal. Talk about your discoveries with others or look up more examples in study materials or instructor resources.
What kind of examples of hyperbole are present in the book?
Exaggeration used for emphasis is known as hyperbole. You might come across phrases like "I've told you a million times" or "he ran a thousand miles" in "Maniac Magee."
What similes are used in "Maniac Magee"?
When two different items are compared, similes use the words "like" or "as." Examples like "fast as a cheetah," "strong as an ox," and "bright as the sun" can be found in "Maniac Magee."
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