Illustrating Figurative Language in Matilda

Activity Overview

Matilda uses several examples of figurative language including similes and personification. In this activity, students will directly quote an example of figurative language from the text. Students can display their understanding of figurative language by identifying the examples and creating a literal and/or figurative portrayal of the language:

• The first example is a simile: "'Welcome to borstal,' she added, spraying bits of crisp out of her mouth like snowflakes."
• A second example is also a simile: "She saw the child white in the face, as white as paper, trembling all over..."
• Lastly is an example of personification: "In the space of thirty seconds the atmosphere in the tiny room had changed completely and now it was vibrating with awkwardness and secrets."

Template and Class Instructions

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