CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.7.5
The Standard
Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts · Language Standards
What This Standard Means
Students need to explain how figurative language works, not just spot it. They should interpret figures of speech, compare related words, and choose words based on small differences in meaning, tone, or intensity.
Mastery looks like a student saying why “strolled” fits better than “walked” in a calm scene, or how a metaphor changes a reader’s view. Students often get stuck by giving literal meanings, treating synonyms as interchangeable, or naming a device without explaining its effect.
Ways to Teach It
- Give pairs sentence strips with verbs like whispered, muttered, barked, and asked, then sort them by tone and intensity.
- Ask students to explain which word best fits a character, stubborn, determined, or persistent, and defend the choice with text evidence.
- Show three short sentences with figurative language, and have students write the literal meaning and the effect in two minutes.
- Bring in song lyrics or ads, then have students identify one figurative phrase and explain what feeling it creates.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.7.5
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
What This Unlocks
Mastery here sets students up for these next.
Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.9-10.5
Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.L.5
Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.11-12.5
Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.