Lesson Plan: Writing with Similes and Metaphors

Subject: Languages (Scottish Curriculum) Topic: Writing Level: Second Level

Desired Outcome: Having explored the elements which writers use in different genres, I can use what I learn to create stories, poems, and plays with an interesting and appropriate structure, interesting characters and/or settings which come to life.

Focus: Provide a poem that contains similes and metaphors

Lesson Duration: 60 minutes

Resources: - Whiteboard or flipchart - Markers or chalk - Handouts with examples of similes and metaphors - Paper and pencils for students

Introduction (10 minutes): 1. Begin the lesson by asking students if they know what similes and metaphors are. Write their responses on the board. 2. Explain that similes and metaphors are literary devices used by writers to make their writing more interesting and descriptive. 3. Provide examples of similes and metaphors on the board and explain the difference between them. For example: - Simile: “Her smile is as bright as the sun.” - Metaphor: “The world is a stage.”

Development (30 minutes): 1. Distribute handouts with additional examples of similes and metaphors to each student. 2. Discuss the examples together, asking students to identify whether each example is a simile or a metaphor. 3. Engage students in a class discussion about the impact of similes and metaphors on the reader. Ask questions such as: - How do similes and metaphors make writing more interesting? - How do they help the reader visualize or understand something better? - Can you think of any famous examples of similes or metaphors in literature or songs? 4. Provide a brief explanation of the structure and characteristics of a poem. 5. Explain that students will now have the opportunity to create their own poem using similes and metaphors.

Activity (15 minutes): 1. Divide the students into pairs or small groups. 2. Provide each group with a topic or theme for their poem (e.g., nature, friendship, dreams). 3. Instruct students to brainstorm a list of similes and metaphors related to their chosen topic. 4. Encourage students to be creative and think outside the box. 5. Allow students time to write their poems, ensuring they include at least three similes and three metaphors.

Conclusion (5 minutes): 1. Ask each group to share their poem with the class. 2. Encourage students to listen attentively and provide positive feedback to their peers. 3. Summarize the importance of using similes and metaphors in writing to make it more engaging and descriptive. 4. Remind students that they can continue to practice using similes and metaphors in their future writing.

Assessment: - Observe students’ participation during class discussions and group work. - Evaluate students’ poems based on their ability to incorporate similes and metaphors effectively. - Provide constructive feedback to students, highlighting their strengths and areas for improvement.