Activity Overview
The author uses many different types of figurative language throughout the story. Some other examples of figurative language that are used are similes, metaphors, personification, idioms, and onomatopoeia. The very fact that the animals talk and have human personalities is an example of personification throughout the whole story. For this activity, students will identify and illustrate three examples of figurative language in The One and Only Ivan. Teachers may want to give the students a list of examples, or have them do a “scavenger hunt” either as they read, or as an activity after reading.
Examples of Figurative Language from The One and Only Ivan:
- “A big, white truck belches smoke.” (Personification)
- ”The ramp groans under the heavy weight.” (Personification)
- ”The back of the truck was a dark cave.” (Metaphor)
- ”Her ears were flapping like palm leaves.” (Simile)
- ”We sit where we are. Like an old beast too tired to push on.” (Simile)
- ”Her pictures are like pieces of a dream.” (Simile)
- ”They drifted past my domain like logs on a lazy river.” (Simile)
- ”Money is tight.” (Idiom)
- ”Their trunks twirled together like jungle vines.” (Simile)
- ”Humans waste words. They toss them like banana peels and leave them to rot.” (Simile)
- ”I wear a snowy saddle of fur, the uniform of a silverback.” (Metaphor)
- ”Beyond the lots is a freeway where cars stampede without end.” (Personification)
- ”The sign is fading, the colors bleeding, but I know what it says.” (Personification)
- ”My drawings seem pale and timid next to Julia’s.” (Personification)
- ”Stella is a mountain. Next to her I am a rock. Bob is a grain of sand.” (Personification)
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a 3 cell spider map, illustrating and describing three examples of figurative language in The One and Only Ivan.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Write the example and page number in the description box. In addition, write what the author is intending to say, or the literal meaning.
- Illustrate each example using scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examples of Figurative Language | There are three examples of figurative language. | There are two correct examples of figurative language. | Only one of the examples of figurative language is correct. |
| Types of Figurative Language | All three examples are correctly identified as simile, metaphor, or personification (or other) in the title box. | Two examples of figurative language are correctly identified as simile, metaphor, or personification (or other). | Only one example of figurative language is correctly identified as simile, metaphor, or personification (or other). |
| Illustrations | Illustrations depict the example of figurative language from the story with clear visuals of appropriate scenes, characters, items, etc. | Illustrations depict the example of figurative language from the story but are unclear or incomplete. | Illustrations do not make sense with the examples chosen. |
| Descriptions | There are descriptions for all three example of figurative language that correctly explain what the figurative language means in the context of the story. | One of the descriptions is missing or the descriptions do not fully explain what the figurative language means in the context of the story. | Two or more descriptions are missing or they do not explain what the figurative language means. |
How to Teach Figurative Language in 'The One and Only Ivan' to Students with Special Needs
Introducing Figurative Language Concepts
Simplified Explanation: Begin by explaining figurative language in simple terms. Use clear, concrete examples to illustrate what figurative language is and why it is used. Visual and Tactile Aids: Use visual aids like flashcards or pictures to demonstrate examples of similes, metaphors, and personification. For tactile learners, incorporate materials they can touch and feel to connect with the concepts.
Identifying Figurative Language in the Book
Guided Reading: Read selected passages from "The One and Only Ivan" that contain figurative language. Use audio recordings if beneficial. Pause to discuss and explain the figurative language used in each passage. Worksheet Activity: Provide worksheets that have examples of figurative language from the book. These should include space for students to draw or describe what each figurative phrase means in a literal sense.
Interactive and Sensory Activities
Artistic Expression: Encourage students to choose one of the figurative language examples and express it through art. This could involve drawing, using clay, or creating a collage, allowing students to use sensory methods to understand and represent the language. Technology Integration: For students who benefit from technology, use apps or software that can help illustrate or animate examples of figurative language.
Review and Reinforcement
Group Sharing: Have students share their artistic representations of figurative language with the class. This can be done as a show-and-tell activity, where they explain their artwork and what the figurative language means. Reinforcement Activities: Use games or interactive activities to reinforce understanding of figurative language. This could include matching games, where students match figurative phrases to their meanings or illustrations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Figurative Language in The One and Only Ivan
What types of figurative language are used in "The One and Only Ivan"?
In "The One and Only Ivan," Katherine Applegate employs various types of figurative language to enrich her storytelling. Similes and metaphors are used extensively to draw comparisons that enhance the reader's visualization and understanding of the characters' experiences. For instance, Ivan's memories and perceptions are often conveyed through metaphors that reflect his deep thoughts and feelings. Personification is another key element, with animal characters exhibiting human-like emotions and thoughts, which serves to build a strong emotional connection with the reader. Imagery is skillfully used to create vivid descriptions of the settings and characters, painting a picture that immerses the reader in Ivan's world. Symbolism is also present, with certain objects and scenarios representing broader themes, such as Ivan's art symbolizing hope and freedom. Alliteration and assonance are used to add a lyrical quality to the text, enhancing its readability and appeal, especially to younger audiences.
What role does figurative language play in setting the tone and atmosphere of the novel?
Figurative language plays a significant role in setting the tone and atmosphere of "The One and Only Ivan." It adds depth and emotional resonance to the narrative, making the characters' experiences more relatable and impactful. Through metaphors and similes, Applegate conveys the melancholy and monotony of life in captivity, as well as the characters' longing for freedom and the natural world. The use of personification allows readers to empathize deeply with the animal characters, understanding their emotions and perspectives. Imagery brings the setting to life, whether it's the dreary environment of the mall or the vivid memories of the jungle, effectively setting the mood for each scene. The overall use of figurative language thus helps to create an immersive experience, drawing readers into the emotional landscape of the story and amplifying the impact of its themes.
How can teachers use examples of figurative language from the book in their lessons?
Teachers can incorporate examples of figurative language from "The One and Only Ivan" into their lessons in various ways. They can use specific excerpts from the text as examples to teach different types of figurative language, such as similes, metaphors, and personification. For instance, analyzing how Applegate uses these devices can help students understand how figurative language enhances storytelling and character development. Teachers can also create activities where students identify and interpret figurative language in the book, discussing how it contributes to the themes and emotional depth of the story. Assignments can include creative writing tasks where students use figurative language to express themes or character perspectives from the novel. Additionally, comparing and contrasting the literal and figurative meanings of phrases from the book can be an effective exercise in deepening students' linguistic and analytical skills. These approaches not only enhance students' understanding of literary devices but also deepen their engagement with the novel.
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