CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.5.5a
The Standard
Interpret figurative language, including similes and metaphors, in context.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts
What This Standard Means
Students need to notice when words are not meant literally and use the surrounding sentence or paragraph to figure out the meaning. They should be able to explain a simile or metaphor in their own words, not just label it.
Mastery looks like a student saying what two things are being compared, what trait they share, and how that comparison changes the reader’s understanding. Students often get stuck by translating too literally, missing the context, or naming “simile” because they see like or as without explaining the meaning.
Ways to Teach It
- Give pairs sentence strips with figurative phrases, literal drawings, and meaning cards, then have them match and justify each set.
- Ask students to write: What does the comparison show about the character, setting, or event in this paragraph?
- Show three short passages with underlined comparisons, and have students write the intended meaning in one sentence each.
- Bring in sports headlines or song lyrics with figurative language, then have students explain what the writer really means.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.5.5a
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What This Unlocks
Mastery here sets students up for these next.
Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.8.5a
Interpret figures of speech (e.g. verbal irony, puns) in context.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.11-12.5a
Interpret figures of speech (e.g., hyperbole, paradox) in context and analyze their role in the text.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.7.5a
Interpret figures of speech (e.g., literary, biblical, and mythological allusions) in context.