CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.7.5a
The Standard
Interpret figures of speech (e.g., literary, biblical, and mythological allusions) in context.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts
What This Standard Means
Students need to spot figurative language and allusions while reading, then explain what they mean in that specific sentence or passage. They should use context clues, not just prior knowledge, to make a reasonable interpretation.
Mastery looks like naming the figure of speech or allusion, explaining the reference, and showing how it affects meaning, tone, or character. Students often get stuck by taking phrases literally, missing older cultural references, or giving a dictionary-style meaning that does not fit the passage.
Ways to Teach It
- Give pairs short passages with idioms, similes, and allusions, then have them annotate clues and write the intended meaning in the margin.
- Ask students to explain how calling a character a Scrooge changes the reader’s view of that character.
- Use an exit ticket with three sentences, asking students to identify the allusion or figure of speech and explain its meaning from context.
- Have students find a sports, music, or movie allusion in an article or ad and explain what the writer expects readers to know.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.7.5a
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What This Unlocks
Mastery here sets students up for these next.