CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.8.5
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 notice when language is not literal, explain what it means, and choose words with care. They should work with figures of speech, connotation, denotation, synonyms, antonyms, analogies, and shades of meaning.
Mastery looks like explaining why an author chose one word instead of another, not just defining it. Students often get stuck when a phrase is familiar but not logical, or when two words seem like exact synonyms. Push them to use context, tone, and evidence from the sentence.
Ways to Teach It
- Give pairs sentence strips with idioms, metaphors, and similes, then have them sort, label, and rewrite each meaning in plain language.
- Ask students to explain how the meaning changes between “thin,” “slender,” “skinny,” and “scrawny” in a character description.
- Use a three-question exit ticket: define the phrase, identify the clue, and explain the feeling the word creates.
- Bring in restaurant reviews or sports headlines and have students highlight loaded words that shape the reader’s opinion.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.8.5
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.