[EL] Narrative text – Level 1

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3.3 Similes

[EL] Narrative text – Level 1 Lesson 3: Introduction to Figurative Language 3.3 Similes

Part 1: What are similes?

A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two different things, often using the words “like” or “as”. It is a type of metaphor that specifically uses these connecting words to make a comparison.

Her eyes twinkled like stars in the night sky.

The simile “Her eyes twinkled like stars in the night sky” compares the sparkle in her eyes to the twinkling of stars, which conveys the idea that her eyes were bright, lively, and full of emotion. The comparison to stars might also suggest a sense of wonder or awe associated with her eyes. It creates a strong visual image that enhances the description of her eyes, making the language more vivid and engaging for the reader.

Part 2: Components of a simile

A simile generally has two parts:

  1. The Tenor: The subject of the simile, or the thing being described or enhanced by the comparison.
  2. The Vehicle: The object or concept that the tenor is being compared to. It often provides a vivid or familiar image to which the reader can relate the tenor.

Simile: “He is as stubborn as a mule.”

  • Tenor: The tenor here is “He”, the person being described.
  • Vehicle: The vehicle in this simile is “a mule”. Mules are often perceived as stubborn animals.

Simile: “She sang like an angel.”

  • Tenor: “She” is the tenor, the person being described.
  • Vehicle: The vehicle is “an angel”. Angels are often associated with heavenly, beautiful singing.

Simile: “His heart pounded like a drum.”

  • Tenor: The tenor here is “His heart”.
  • Vehicle: The vehicle is “a drum”. Drums are associated with loud, rhythmic sounds.

Part 3: Similes vs. Metaphors

While similes and metaphors are both used to make comparisons, they do so in different ways. Similes use “like” or “as” to make a direct comparison, while metaphors make an indirect comparison by stating that one thing is something else.

Activity 1: Identify the tenor and vehicle

Question 1: “Mary can run really fast. She’s as light as a feather.”

Tenor:

Vehicle:

Question 2: “He fights like a lion.”

Tenor:

Vehicle:

Question 3: “The car runs as smooth as silk.”

Tenor:

Vehicle:

Question 4: “They argued like cats and dogs.”

Tenor:

Vehicle:

Question 5: “His words were as sharp as a knife.”

Tenor:

Vehicle:

Question 6: “Her mind is as clear as a crystal.”

Tenor:

Vehicle:

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