Using figurative language: similes and metaphors
What is a metaphor in Year 5 English?
A metaphor is a way of describing something by saying it is something else, even though it's not literally true.
This helps to paint a picture in your child's mind, allowing them to understand a concept or imagine a story or character better. Think of it as a way to compare two things without using the words 'like' or 'as'.
Here are three examples to explain to a Year 5 child:
- Time is a thief.
This is a way of saying that time goes by quickly (and you might feel like it steals moments away from you!).
- The classroom was a zoo.
This is a way of saying that the classroom was very noisy and chaotic – like a zoo with lots of animals.
- He has a heart of stone.
This means the person is very cold and unfeeling (not that their heart is literally made of stone!).
Using metaphors makes language more colourful. It helps children to understand concepts in a fun and imaginative way.
What is a simile in Year 5 English?
A simile is a way of describing something by comparing it to something else, using the words 'like' or 'as'.
This helps create a clear picture in your child's mind and makes the description more vivid.
Here are three examples to explain to a Year 5 child:
- She is as busy as a bee
Meaning: She is very busy and always working hard (just like a bee).
- His smile is like sunshine
This means his smile is very bright and makes people feel happy (just like sunshine does).
- The water was as cold as ice
This means the water was very cold – just like ice!
Similes make language more interesting and help children to understand or imagine things better by making clear and relatable comparisons.
For more help with Year 5 English, check out our hub page, or try a new challenge such as our Using similes to describe a character worksheet.
