The author uses many different types of figurative language throughout the story. Some other examples of figurative language that are used are similes, metaphors, personification, idioms, and onomatopoeia. For this activity, students will identify and illustrate three examples of figurative language in Where the Red Fern Grows. Teachers may want to give the students a list of examples, or have them do a “scavenger hunt” either as they read or as an activity after reading.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a 3 cell storyboard that illustrates and describes three examples of figurative language in the text.
Student Instructions:
Transform your classroom into an interactive gallery where students showcase their illustrated examples of figurative language from Where the Red Fern Grows. This approach boosts student engagement and encourages peer learning as students view and discuss each other's work.
Arrange desks or tables around the room and assign a space for each student’s storyboard. This creates a clear path for movement and ensures every student’s work is visible and valued.
Give students a simple observation sheet to jot down interesting figurative language, artistic choices, or questions about their classmates’ storyboards. This fosters active participation and sharpens analytical skills.
Prompt students to share feedback or ask questions at each station. Encourage them to use positive language and focus on how figurative language enhances meaning. This builds confidence and deepens understanding.
Lead a brief group discussion about what students learned from their peers’ work. Highlight creative uses of figurative language and how different interpretations can enrich comprehension of the text.
Where the Red Fern Grows features figurative language such as similes (e.g., “He swelled up like a sitting hen”), personification (“His voice seemed to bore its way through the pillow”), and idioms (“He put his thinking cap on”). These help create vivid imagery and emotional impact in the story.
Have students identify and illustrate three examples of figurative language from the book. You can provide a list of examples or organize a ‘scavenger hunt’ as they read. Encourage students to explain the literal meaning and illustrate each example for deeper understanding.
A simile compares two things using ‘like’ or ‘as’ (e.g., “worked like a beaver”), while personification gives human qualities to non-human things (e.g., “The wind itself seemed to be angry”). Both are used throughout Where the Red Fern Grows to enhance descriptions.
Figurative language adds depth, emotion, and vivid imagery to the narrative, helping readers connect with characters and setting. In Where the Red Fern Grows, it brings scenes to life and enhances students’ reading experience.
Assign students to create a three-cell storyboard showing different figurative language examples from Where the Red Fern Grows. Each cell should include the type, example, page number, literal meaning, and an illustration. This reinforces comprehension in a creative way.