Similes and Metaphors for Primary 5

Lesson Plan for Primary 5 – English Grammar

Second Term, Week 7


 


Subject: English Grammar
Class: Primary 5
Term: Second Term
Week: 7
Age: 9–10 years
Topic: Similes and Metaphors
Sub-topic: Understanding and Using Similes and Metaphors
Duration: 40 minutes

Behavioral Objectives: By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

  1. Define similes and metaphors.
  2. Differentiate between similes and metaphors.
  3. Use similes and metaphors correctly in sentences.

Keywords: Similes, Metaphors, Comparison, Figures of Speech

Set Induction: The teacher describes someone by saying, “He is as brave as a lion,” and asks the pupils to interpret what it means.

Entry Behavior: Pupils are familiar with basic descriptions of people and objects.

Learning Resources and Materials:

  • Flashcards with similes and metaphors
  • Pictures illustrating common comparisons
  • Sentences on charts

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge: Pupils have learned about adjectives and descriptive words in earlier lessons.

Embedded Core Skills:

  • Critical thinking
  • Creativity in language use
  • Observation skills

Reference Books: Lagos State Scheme of Work for English Language, Primary 5

Instructional Materials: Charts, flashcards, and illustrations


Content

1. Meaning of Similes and Metaphors

  • Simile: A simile compares two things using the words “like” or “as.”
    Examples:

    • He is as tall as a giraffe.
    • She sings like a bird.
  • Metaphor: A metaphor compares two things by saying one thing is another without using “like” or “as.”
    Examples:

    • The world is a stage.
    • Her voice is music to my ears.

2. Differences Between Similes and Metaphors

Simile Metaphor
Uses “like” or “as.” Does not use “like” or “as.”
Example: “He runs like a deer.” Example: “He is a deer when he runs.”

3. Examples of Similes and Metaphors

Similes:

  1. She is as bright as the sun.
  2. He swims like a fish.
  3. The car is as fast as lightning.

Metaphors:

  1. Time is a thief.
  2. His heart is a stone.
  3. The classroom was a zoo.

4. Common Mistakes in Using Similes and Metaphors

  • Mixing up similes and metaphors.
    Incorrect: He is as a lion.
    Correct: He is a lion (metaphor) or He is as brave as a lion (simile).

Fill-in-the-Blank Questions

  1. She is as ______ as a feather.
    a) heavy
    b) light
    c) fast
    d) slow
  2. The baby’s skin is ______ silk.
    a) like
    b) as
    c) same
    d) a
  3. He is a ______ when it comes to solving problems.
    a) shark
    b) calculator
    c) genius
    d) lion
  4. The soldier fought like a ______.
    a) lion
    b) cat
    c) mouse
    d) fish
  5. The storm was a ______ of destruction.
    a) train
    b) river
    c) whirlwind
    d) house
  6. Her smile is as bright as the ______.
    a) moon
    b) sun
    c) star
    d) lamp
  7. He ran like the ______.
    a) wind
    b) snail
    c) turtle
    d) stone
  8. The room was a ______ of activity.
    a) forest
    b) beehive
    c) sea
    d) cloud
  9. She danced like a ______.
    a) bird
    b) rock
    c) tree
    d) lion
  10. His heart is as cold as ______.
    a) fire
    b) ice
    c) sun
    d) cloud
  11. He eats like a ______.
    a) horse
    b) butterfly
    c) lion
    d) mouse
  12. The sky was a ______ of colors at sunset.
    a) rainbow
    b) sea
    c) blanket
    d) mirror
  13. She is as strong as an ______.
    a) lion
    b) ox
    c) elephant
    d) ant
  14. His words were ______ to my ears.
    a) music
    b) sand
    c) noise
    d) hammer
  15. The child is as playful as a ______.
    a) kitten
    b) dog
    c) turtle
    d) cow

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is a simile?
    • A simile compares two things using “like” or “as.”
  2. What is a metaphor?
    • A metaphor compares two things without using “like” or “as.”
  3. Give an example of a simile.
    • She is as tall as a tree.
  4. Give an example of a metaphor.
    • His life is a journey.
  5. What words are used in similes?
    • “Like” and “as.”
  6. Can a metaphor describe people?
    • Yes, e.g., He is a shining star.
  7. What is the main difference between a simile and a metaphor?
    • Similes use “like” or “as,” while metaphors do not.
  8. Why do we use similes and metaphors?
    • To make descriptions more vivid and creative.
  9. Is “She is a lion” a simile or metaphor?
    • It is a metaphor.
  10. Is “She is as brave as a lion” a simile or metaphor?
    • It is a simile.

 


Presentation

Step 1: Revision of the previous topic.

  • The teacher reviews comparison words like “similar to.”

Step 2: Introduction of the new topic.

  • The teacher defines similes and metaphors, using examples.

Step 3: Students’ contributions and corrections.

  • Pupils identify and construct sentences with similes and metaphors.

Teacher’s Activities:

  • Explain similes and metaphors with examples.
  • Show pupils the differences between similes and metaphors.

Learner’s Activities:

  • Identify examples of similes and metaphors.
  • Create their own sentences using similes and metaphors.

Assessment:

  • Pupils correctly identify and use similes and metaphors in sentences.

Evaluation Questions

  1. Define a simile.
  2. Define a metaphor.
  3. Write one example of a simile.
  4. Write one example of a metaphor.
  5. Differentiate between similes and metaphors.
  6. Complete: “She is as ______ as a lion.”
  7. Complete: “The sky was a ______ of colors.”
  8. Identify the figure of speech: “He is a lion in battle.”
  9. Identify the figure of speech: “He is as fast as the wind.”
  10. Write a sentence using a metaphor.

Conclusion:

The teacher reviews the lesson and emphasizes the importance of using similes and metaphors for effective communication.