METAPHORS Using Language to Clarify Ideas

Definition A comparison of two dissimilar items that shows how one might have some of the qualities of the other –ex. I often talk about “tailoring your language to fit your audience.” The comparison is between language and a suit; writing and sewing are an implied metaphor.

Everyday Metaphors Raining cats and dogs Caught red handed Shoot yourself in the foot Go down the drain N.B. Most of these are clichés. Don’t use them in your paper.

Writing Process 3 stages: planning, drafting, revising

Planning Find 3 everyday metaphors Find 3 metaphors from the field Decide on audience/purpose Research the selected metaphors Complete audience analysis

Drafting Format: –Introduction: ex. a discussion of your field –Body: your choice for organization of information –Conclusion: discuss the value of your field’s use of metaphors

Drafting 2 Specific information to include –Discussion of your field and its use of language –Definition of metaphor with citation of source –3 examples of everyday metaphors –3 examples of metaphors from your field –Evaluation of metaphor use

Revision Have preliminary draft ready for class group evaluations Decide whether to accept advice Choose best examples (ex. best common/field metaphor, best explanation of that metaphor) for Revision Discussion.

Requirements Information about your field 3 common metaphors with their meanings 3 field metaphors with explanations of their meanings, origins, purpose, effectiveness, problems. Evaluation of metaphor use in your field as the conclusion. Headings for each section of the report. Double spacing, 12 pt. Font size.

Metaphor Exercise Search for metaphor sites containing common and field metaphors. Find metaphors to use in your paper. Send the url, site title, and metaphor(s) found there to the Discussion Board. If you’re listing field metaphors, include the name of your field in your subject line.