Figurative Language Task Cards are the perfect addition to any 3rd-5th grade classroom, small group, homeschool, or therapy setting where metaphors, idioms, similes, hyperboles, and personification are being used and/or taught. Figurative language refers to the use of words or expressions that deviate from their literal meanings in order to convey a more vivid, imaginative, or profound message. They add depth, creativity, and imagery to communication, allowing for a more engaging and expressive form of expression. While the use of these wordings can be fun and make a conversation more creative, these concepts can be difficult for students, especially those receiving speech services or learning English as a second language, to understand because of the figurativeness of their meanings.
Idiomatic Expressions
Idiomatic expressions (also known as figurative language) like idioms, similes, metaphors, personification, and hyperboles are often taught in upper elementary classrooms (grades 3-5). Students often find these lessons difficult to understand and comprehend because they are still in a very literal phase of life. Educators, homeschool parents, and SLPs (Speech-Language Pathologists) are often looking for resource options to support their figurative language lessons. That’s why we created Figurative Language Worksheets – Flash Cards: Metaphors, Similes, Idioms, & More!
It is so important for students to know and understand figurative language because these types of expressions are used an estimated four times per minute by adults! That’s a lot to misunderstand! Educators enjoy this resource because there are pictures that help their students to better understand the meanings behind the figurative languages and it also makes learning this tough concept engaging!
Figurative Language Task Cards
This pack of figurative language task cards comes in colored and black-and-white versions and provides educators and speech therapists with 15 pairs of flashcards for each of the following topics:
- Metaphors
- Similes
- Idioms
- Hyperboles
- Personification
We highly recommend printing the colored version of this resource for classroom/speech session use. It is also a great idea to laminate the cards for extended use and easy cleaning.
So, how would you use this resource with students in your own classroom, homeschool lesson, or a speech session? The opportunities really are endless! Here’s how…
Homework
Print off the black-and-white task cards and have students practice with their families. This helps families understand figurative language concepts while giving students a fun at-home practice session.
Whole Class/Session
While teaching the different types of figurative language, the task cards can be used as whole class flashcards. Or hand out all of the task cards and give students the “challenge” of finding their partner card!
Partner or Small Group
Complete the task card matching activities in pairs or small groups. Then have each group get “checked” to see if they got them all right. If there are mistakes, have the students discuss which mistakes they made and why.
Morning Work
Add the figurative language task cards that have been previously learned into morning work bins. This gives students an engaging way to get extra practice without giving teachers extra prep.
Figurative language adds richness, imagery, and emotional depth to writing, speaking, and storytelling. It engages the reader or listener by appealing to their senses and emotions, making the content more memorable and impactful while also enhancing comprehension. The use of these terms is definitely fun and engaging, yet it can be difficult for students to learn. We encourage educators, parents, and speech therapists to incorporate these flashcards into their teaching and intervention strategies, promoting positive figurative language learning for their students!