Literary Devices

What is a literary device? What are some examples?

Tags

CCSS.L.11-12.6

CCSS.L.8.6

CCSS.L.9-10.6

CCSS.W.11-12.2D

CCSS.W.9-10.2D

This device is a figure of speech that compares two things using "like" or "as":

• Hyperbole

• Simile

• Metaphor

• Personification

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5A

CCSS.L.5.5A

CCSS.RL.5.4

CCSS.W.11-12.2D

This device is a figure of speech that compares two things without using "like" or "as":

• Metaphor

• Onomatopoeia

• Simile

• Imagery

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5A

CCSS.L.5.5A

CCSS.RL.5.4

CCSS.W.11-12.2D

This device gives human qualities to an object, animal, or idea:

• Hyperbole

• Imagery

• Onomatopoeia

• Personification

Tags

CCSS.L.6.5A

This device uses obvious exaggeration to create a dramatic effect:

• Simile

• Hyperbole

• Metaphor

• Onomatopoeia

Tags

CCSS.L.11-12.5A

Identify the literary device being used:

"The light danced across the water."

Tags

CCSS.L.6.5A

Identify the literary device being used:

"My students are shining stars!"

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5A

CCSS.L.5.5A

CCSS.RL.5.4

CCSS.W.11-12.2D

This device is a description that appeals to the senses (sight, smell, touch, etc.):

• Imagery

• Tone

• Theme

• Symbolism

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5

CCSS.L.5.5

CCSS.L.6.5

CCSS.L.7.5

CCSS.L.8.5

This device refers to the writer's attitude towards the reader and the subject of the message:

• Theme

• Purpose

• Tone

• Style

Tags

CCSS.L.3.3A

CCSS.L.4.3A

CCSS.L.5.3A

CCSS.L.6.3A

CCSS.L.6.3B

This device is the central idea of a work of literature:

• Theme

• Tone

• Purpose

• Style

Tags

CCSS.L.11-12.6

CCSS.L.9-10.6

CCSS.W.11-12.2D

CCSS.W.8.2D

CCSS.W.9-10.2D