Visualize the Intended Meaning of Figurative Language

Kate Bieker, 6th grade language arts teacher at Willowcreek Middle School (Portage, IN), shared a great way to help students grasp the meaning of metaphors. She uses music lyrics to teach figurative language. Students can usually interpret similes, but often misunderstand metaphors. Kate picks a couple of songs her students aren't familiar with (e.g., "The Rose," by Bette Midler; "Sound of Silence," or "I am a Rock," by Simon and Garfunkel; "That's Amore," by Dean Martin; "Like a Rock," by Bob Seger; etc.). After listening to the songs, she gives her students the lyrics. First, they have to identify the figurative language, then, in small groups, students work to interpret what it means. Small groups bring their interpretations back to the whole group for discussion.

This ties directly into the main idea or message of the song. Once students know what the metaphors mean, they gain an understanding of what the song is about. To extend this, Kate allows her students to bring in the lyrics to some of their favorite songs. She screens the songs to make sure that they are school appropriate. If she approves it, students can bring their songs in on an IPOD and play them for the class. The students love it!