Figurative vs. Literal Language

Learning to make meaning when figurative language is used can be a difficult concept for learning disabled students. Students with disabilities, especially those with language delays, become easily confused when figurative language is used. Figurative language or figures of speech is very abstract for children. Put simply to a child: figurative language doesnt mean exactly what it says. Unfortunately, many students take figurative language literally. The next time you say—this briefcase weighs a ton, they might just think that it does and come away with a belief that a ton is something close to the weight of a suitcase. Figurative Speech Comes in Many Forms Simile (comparisons often with as or like): as smooth as silk, as fast as the wind, quick like a lightning bolt.Metaphor (implicit comparison without like or as): Youre such an airhead. Its bursting with flavor.Hyperbole (exaggerating statement): In order to get my assignment done, Ill have to burn the midnight oil.Personification (giving something a human quality): The sun smiled down on me. The leaves danced in the wind. As a teacher, take time to teach the meanings of figurative language. Let the students brainstorm possible sayings for figurative language. Take a look at the list below and have students brainstorm a context for which the phrases could be used. For instance: when I want to use Bells and whistles I could be rererring to the new computer I just bought which has, lots of memory, a dvd burner, an amazing video card, a wireless keyboard and a mouse. Therefore I could say My new computer has all the bells and whistles. Use the list below, or let students brainstorm a list of figures of speech. Let them identify what the possible meanings of the phrases could be. Figures of Speech Phrases At the drop of a hatAxe to grindBack to square oneBells and whistlesBed of rosesBurn the midnight oilClean sweepChew the fatCold feetCoast is clearDown in the dumpsEars are burningForty winksFull of beans Give me a breakGive my right armIn a nutshell/pickleIn the bagIts greek to meFinal strawLet the cat out of the bagLong shotMums the wordOn the ballOut on a limbPass the buckPay through the noseRead between the linesSaved by the bellSpill the beansTake a rain checkThrough the grapevineTrue colorsUnder the weatherUp my sleeveUpset the apple cartWalking on eggshells