Structure: Similes and Metaphors – Basic 6 English Lesson Note (Second Term)

Review: What is a Simile?

A simile compares two things using “like” or “as”.

• She is as black as coal. (simile)
• He runs like the wind. (simile)

What is a Metaphor?

A metaphor compares two things by saying one thing IS another thing, without using “like” or “as”.

• She is coal. (metaphor – means she is very dark)
• He is the wind. (metaphor – means he is very fast)

Comparing Similes and Metaphors:

More Examples:

Similes:

• The baby’s skin is as soft as silk
• The old man walks like a tortoise
• Her hair is as golden as wheat
• The thunder sounds like drums

Metaphors:

• The baby’s skin is silk
• The old man is a tortoise
• Her hair is golden wheat
• The thunder is drums

Exercise C – Identify Similes and Metaphors

Write S (Simile) or M (Metaphor):

1. The classroom is a zoo when the teacher is away. ___
2. My grandmother is as wise as an owl. ___
3. Time is money in business. ___
4. The athlete runs like a cheetah. ___
5. Her voice is music to my ears. ___
6. The child is as stubborn as a mule. ___

Exercise D – Convert Similes to Metaphors

Change these similes into metaphors:

1. Simile: The teacher is as busy as a bee. Metaphor: The teacher _________________.
2. Simile: The boy is as strong as an ox. Metaphor: The boy _________________.
3. Simile: She is as graceful as a swan. Metaphor: She _________________.
4. Simile: The river flows like a snake. Metaphor: The river _________________.

Exercise E – Create Your Own

Write one simile and one metaphor for each topic:

1. A very tall building:
   1. Simile: _________________________________
   2. Metaphor: _________________________________
2. A very fast car:
   1. Simile: _________________________________
   2. Metaphor: _________________________________
3. A beautiful garden:

1. Simile: _________________________________
2. Metaphor: _________________________________