English // Vocabulary

Literal vs Figurative Language

Distinguish literal from nonliteral (figurative) language in context and interpret common idioms and phrases

Ages
8 to 9
Type
Concept
Builds on
2 topics
Leads to
3 topics
Standards
2 codes

Quick check

When the learner reads a phrase like "it's raining cats and dogs" or "she had butterflies in her stomach," do they know it doesn't mean what the words literally say?

Ask this to see whether the topic is secure.

Topic // Mastery

What mastery looks like

What a learner can do once this topic is secure.
  • Identify whether 'It's raining cats and dogs' is literal or nonliteral and explain what it means
  • Read a passage and circle three phrases used nonliterally, restating each in literal terms
  • Explain the difference between 'She was on fire' (figurative — performing well) and 'The log was on fire' (literal)

Topic // Map

Where this fits

What to learn first and what this topic opens up, with the reason for each link. Required links come first.
  • RequiredMust come first
  • HelpfulHelps, but not essential

Before this

2 topics
  • Expressive and Sensory LanguageRequired

    Reading Comprehension // Ages 6 to 9

    Distinguishing literal from nonliteral builds on recognising literary language and sensory words

  • Shades of MeaningHelpful

    Vocabulary // Ages 5 to 9

    Understanding figurative language connects to distinguishing shades of meaning

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Literal vs Figurative Language

Ages 8 to 9 // Concept

Leads to

3 topics
  • Similes & MetaphorsRequired

    Vocabulary // Ages 9 to 11

    Identifying similes and metaphors requires the ability to distinguish literal from figurative language

  • Idioms & ProverbsRequired

    Vocabulary // Ages 9 to 11

    Interpreting idioms, adages, and proverbs requires the foundational ability to recognise nonliteral language

  • Cultural Allusions and Word MeaningHelpful

    Reading Comprehension // Ages 9 to 10

    Understanding literary vocabulary requires the ability to distinguish literal from figurative meaning

Topic // Standards

Curriculum standards

Codes for the curriculum statements this topic maps to. Each publisher owns its standard text.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects
L.3.5aRL.3.4

English // Vocabulary

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