“By using the product, they were so excited and they learned so much...”–K-5 Librarian and Instructinal Technology Teacher
"Red Kayak" contains various types of figurative language, especially similes, idioms, and hyperbole. Figurative language adds depth to the story and lets the readers interpret messages from the author in a different way than straightforward text elements.
In this activity, students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying examples and creating a literal or figurative portrayal of the figurative language.
Three examples of figurative language used in "Red Kayak" are:
(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 three examples of figurative language in "Red Kayak".
Grade Level 4-5
Difficulty Level 3 (Developing to Mastery)
Type of Assignment Individual or Partner
Type of Activity: Figurative Language
(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 | Illustrations show attention to the details of the story and demonstrate connection to the figurative language. | Illustrations demonstrate connection to the figurative language. | Illustrations do not make sense with the examples chosen. |
"Red Kayak" contains various types of figurative language, especially similes, idioms, and hyperbole. Figurative language adds depth to the story and lets the readers interpret messages from the author in a different way than straightforward text elements.
In this activity, students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying examples and creating a literal or figurative portrayal of the figurative language.
Three examples of figurative language used in "Red Kayak" are:
(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 three examples of figurative language in "Red Kayak".
Grade Level 4-5
Difficulty Level 3 (Developing to Mastery)
Type of Assignment Individual or Partner
Type of Activity: Figurative Language
(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 | Illustrations show attention to the details of the story and demonstrate connection to the figurative language. | Illustrations demonstrate connection to the figurative language. | Illustrations do not make sense with the examples chosen. |
Boost engagement by turning the search for figurative language into a fun scavenger hunt! This activity gets students moving, discussing, and thinking critically as they find and share examples from "Red Kayak."
Create cards featuring similes, idioms, and hyperbole from the book. Include the quote and type on each card so students can easily identify and discuss them.
Place the example cards in visible but unexpected spots. This adds excitement and encourages active participation as students explore the room.
Ask students to search for the cards, then sort them by figurative language type. Encourage students to explain why each example fits its category to deepen understanding.
Facilitate a discussion about how figurative language affects the story and emotions. Let students share their thoughts and personal connections to make learning memorable.
Red Kayak uses figurative language such as similes (e.g., “his face pale as a sheet”), idioms (“barking up a storm”), and hyperbole (“I was scared to death”) to create vivid imagery and deeper meaning in the story.
Have students identify figurative language in Red Kayak, label the type (like simile or idiom), and illustrate or explain its meaning. Using storyboards helps students visualize and understand these literary devices.
Ask students to find three examples of figurative language in Red Kayak, write them down, label the type, and draw a scene showing the literal or figurative meaning. This activity builds comprehension and creativity.
Figurative language in Red Kayak adds depth and emotion, helping readers connect with characters and themes on a deeper level. It encourages students to think beyond the literal text.
Look for similes, idioms, and hyperbole in Red Kayak. These types make the story more engaging and help students practice identifying literary devices.
“By using the product, they were so excited and they learned so much...”–K-5 Librarian and Instructinal Technology Teacher
“I'm doing a Napoleon timeline and I'm having [students] determine whether or not Napoleon was a good guy or a bad guy or somewhere in between.”–History and Special Ed Teacher
“Students get to be creative with Storyboard That and there's so many visuals for them to pick from... It makes it really accessible for all students in the class.”–Third Grade Teacher