Lesson 6 Language Choices

Learning Intention

I can explain a writer's language choices and describe the effect on the reader

Key Competency

Using language

Success Criteria

I can identify SPAMO in a poem and explain what the intended effect is

I can explain the difference between effective similes and cliches

I can identify an extended metaphor and explain its meaning

SPAMO - In groups, write a definition of the word you have been given with examples. Negotiate on the whiteboards and then when agreed, write down the definition in your workbook.

Regroup with one person from each group and share your findings.

Discuss:

What is the difference in meaning between a simile and a metaphor? Is there one? Have a look at these and decide.

On mini whiteboards, write an ending to the similes from the teacher:

As hot as ...

As cold as ....

As big as...

As small as ...

Look at this simile poem. Is it 'good'? Why / why not?
Can you do any better?

Clever

As poor as a _______.
As strong as an ______,
As cute as a ______,
As smart as ______.

As thin as a ______,
As white as a ______,
As fit as a ______
As dumb as a ______.

As bald as an ______,
As neat as a ______,
As proud as a ______,
As ugly as ______.

Use fresh similes when
you speak and you write,
so your friends will think you are
quite clever and bright.

Look at these metaphor poems. What do you think of them?

Dictionary Work

What do these words mean? They are matched with the wrong definition. Record them in your workbook with a definition and an example.

• clasp - a jagged piece of rock
• crag - surrounded by
• crooked - hold on to tightly
• ringed - a shade of blue
• azure - not straight

Now look at this 'crunched' poem. This is all the words from the entire poem. Try to reconstruct it using every single word.

a and azure beneath clasps close crag crawls crooked falls from hands he he he he him his in lands like lonely mountain ringed sea stands sun the the the the thunderbolt to walls watches with with world wrinkled